The Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) program, a market-oriented approach to farming, is currently being implemented in Belize with a focus on transforming the mindset of farmers to view agriculture as a business.
Today, representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture had the opportunity to visit Mr. Carlos Eck, a dedicated farmer from Concepcion Village in the Corozal District, who is actively participating in the SHEP trainings. Mr. Eck, who has been passionate about farming from a young age, is currently cultivating a diverse range of crops including tomatoes, cabbage, onions, cilantro, carrots and watermelon.
Through the SHEP program, the Ministry of Agriculture aims to empower farmers by equipping them with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions based on market demand. This includes training in crop selection, marketing strategies, and data-driven farming practices, all designed to improve productivity, increase income, and ensure sustainable livelihoods.
Mr. Eck’s success is a testament to the potential of Belizean farmers when given the right support and training. The Ministry remains committed to working alongside farmers to ensure that agriculture becomes a viable, competitive, and profitable business sector in Belize.
