CATIE Opens National Office in Belize and Appoints Helen Choco-Galindo as Representative

• The new office will allow us to continue strengthening technical assistance and cooperation ties with Belize

The Director General of CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center), Luis Pocasangre, inaugurated the new national office in Belize and appointed Helen Choco-Galindo as the institution's representative in that country.

CATIE is a regional center dedicated to research and postgraduate education in agriculture, management, conservation, and sustainable use of natural resources. Its members include Belize, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).

During his visit to Belize, the Director General participated in the National Agriculture and Trade Show (NATS), an annual event organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighting the importance of the sector in Belize's economy.

CATIE had a booth that attracted the attention of producers, students, and visitors interested in agricultural development and sustainability.

It was at this booth where Dr. Pocasangre met with a dozen alumni from the School of Agriculture of the Humid Tropical Region (EARTH) and CATIE. "As a teacher, there's nothing more rewarding than reuniting with your students and sharing memories. It was a very special moment," said the Director General.

The presence of EARTH and CATIE graduates at the fair highlighted their crucial role in the agricultural development of Belize. Many of them are involved in key sectors such as banana, sugarcane, citrus, phytoprotection systems (OIRSA), while others work at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of Belize. Several are also university professors and representatives of international organizations.

Helen Choco-Galindo, the newly appointed representative of CATIE in Belize, is a clear example of the influence of alumni in the country. She is an agronomist with a bachelor's degree in agricultural sciences and a master's degree in Economics, Development, and Climate Change from CATIE.

"CATIE is very pleased with this appointment, which will enable us to continue the process of strengthening technical assistance and cooperation ties with Belize," said Dr. Pocasangre.

The fair also celebrated the innovation and commitment of local producers. In a special ceremony, awards were given to the best female producer, best male producer, and best young female producer.

Sara Chub was recognized as the best female producer, Nandy Aldana as the best male producer, and Maura Escobar as the best young female producer.

"It's an honor to see two women among the winners," Dr. Pocasangre remarked. "Agriculture was discovered by women, and it's exciting to see that today they are being recognized for their achievements."

The Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of Belize, Eng. José Mai, highlighted the importance of producers for the future of agriculture and, ultimately, for humanity.