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Archive - Archive 2004 - July 2013

Farming sector to get new soil and plant laboratory |21 August 2012

Farming sector to get new soil and plant laboratory

Messrs Naiken (left) and Rose signing the contract in the presence of Minister Sinon (right) and PS Nalletamby

Built at Grand Anse Mahe, the laboratory is expected to be ready in six months’ time.

The contract for the construction of the laboratory was signed last week between Ascent Projects Seychelles Ltd, represented by its director Francois Rose, and the chief executive of the Seychelles Agricultural Agency (SAA) Marc Naiken.

Present to witness the signing which took place at the Grand Anse Mahe research station were Natural Resources and Industry Minister Peter Sinon, his principal secretary (PS) Michael Nalletamby, special advisor Antoine-Marie Moustache, and representatives of the agencies and departments involved.

Mr Naiken said the new laboratory will be a boost to the SAA and is an important project being undertaken.

“It will also serve as an inspiration for the young people who want to develop a career in the agricultural sector,” he said.

Mr Naiken thanked everyone who has helped to make the project a reality.
Minister Sinon said the laboratory is the first step in the venture to modernise and transform the agricultural sector.

Viewing plans of the new laboratory

He also thanked the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Investment for incorporating the project in the 2012 budget.

At the end of 2011, the SAA initiated a project concept for the new laboratory and provided a layout of what Seychelles requires to meet the need of all stakeholders that depend on the service.

The project got the required approval and endorsement of the Natural Resources and Industry ministry.

In a press release, the SAA said the signing is a clear sign of the government’s commitment towards the development of the agricultural sector, especially the development of vital infrastructure to help the farming community.

This will help meet their basic soil fertility needs and by doing so increase the national food production.

The agency added that the new laboratory will help bring about the long-awaited green revolution in the country.

Prior to the signing, project supervisor Barry Nourrice gave a short presentation on the history of agricultural laboratory and soil testing in Seychelles.

Those at the signing had the chance to view the site where the construction is being done.

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