Agriculture Ministry Pushes Youth to See Farming as a Career

The countdown is on for this year’s National Agriculture and Trade Show, but in a slight shift from tradition, the event will officially kick off a day earlier than usual.  Organizers have confirmed that the NATS 2026 edition will open on Thursday, April 30, with the official ceremony on the Belmopan Showgrounds. Traditionally held on a Friday afternoon, the change is expected to give patrons an extended experience, while Friday, Saturday and Sunday remain the main attraction days featuring the highly anticipated agriculture displays and rodeo events.  As has been a long-standing tradition, three Farmers of the Year have been selected to represent excellence in the sector. This year’s honorees are Yoalma Pocasangre, Female Farmer of the Year; Jesua Tzib, Junior Farmer of the Year; and Saulo Mesh, Male Farmer of the Year. Tzib and Mesh are both from San Antonio Village, while Pocasangre hails from Valley of Peace in the Cayo District.  The trio appeared on the Morning Show, where they shared insights into their farming journeys, the scale of their operations, and the realities of working the land in today’s climate. Among the challenges highlighted were the need for reliable and stable water access in San Antonio, difficulties with road infrastructure in areas like Valley of Peace, and the growing impact of climate change on crop production.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture has become increasingly proactive, pushing for greater youth involvement in farming, recognizing the importance of building the next generation of agricultural leaders. Public Relations Officer Luis Pook says initiatives are underway to encourage young people to see agriculture not just as a livelihood, but as a viable and rewarding career path.

The National Agriculture and Trade Show is celebrated this year under the theme, “Advancing Smart Agriculture: Building a Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Belizean Food System.”/