… creating significant challenges for Belize

By Omar Silva

Editor: National Perspective Bz DIGITAL 2024

www.nationalperspectivebz.com

Belize City: Thursday, 7th November

The combined threat of the Fusarium fungus in sugarcane and the looming danger of New World Screwworm in cattle is creating significant challenges for Belize’s agricultural sector. As the country works to maintain its screw-worm-free status amidst heightened concerns from Mexican cattle farmers, Belizean farmers face mounting pressure to adopt proactive measures to safeguard their cattle and preserve crucial trade relationships.

Screwworm Scare: Belizean Cattle Farmers Face New Challenges to Protect Exports

As the New World Screwworm spreads throughout Central America, Belize remains one of the only countries in the region free from this harmful pest. However, with cases documented as close as Guatemala, Mexico’s cattle industry has raised concerns, pressuring authorities to restrict imports from Belize. The Mexican Confederation of Cattle Producers (CNG), representing over 8,000 cattle farmers, has petitioned SENASICA, Mexico’s agricultural health authority, to temporarily close its border to cattle imports from Belize and Guatemala.

In response, Belize's Minister of Agriculture, Jose Mai, calls this action “unjust,” emphasizing that Belize maintains a clean status, with no imports of cattle from other Central American countries that could introduce the screwworm. Mai assures that Belize collaborates daily with SENASICA to keep a vigilant eye on any emerging threats. If Mexico proceeds with the ban, Mai notes that Belize would likely turn to OIRSA, the International Regional Organization for Plant and Animal Health, to intervene on trade grounds, given the lack of scientific justification for halting Belizean imports.

How the New World Screwworm Spreads and What Belizean Farmers Can Do

The New World Screwworm, a parasitic infestation that occurs when female flies lay eggs on wounds of livestock, can devastate cattle populations if not managed. Once hatched, larvae feed on living tissue, causing infections and serious health issues for cattle. To combat this, Belizean farmers must ensure that livestock remain free from exposed wounds, including those from minor cuts, insect bites, or veterinary injections.

Dr. Roxanna Álvarez, BAHA’s Technical Director, advises farmers to regularly inspect their cattle for any signs of open wounds, even from minor tick bites. Treating wounds immediately is essential, as it prevents the flies from laying eggs and interrupting the lifecycle of this pest. Fermin Blanco, OIRSA’s Country Representative, echoes the importance of these practices, underscoring that “curing wounds is essential because the blood attracts the flies. No wound, no infestation.”

Farmers as the First Line of Defense

Belize’s efforts to remain screw-worm-free rest heavily on the vigilance and preventive actions of local cattle farmers. They are encouraged to:

• Inspect livestock daily for any wounds, treating even small scratches.
• Implement hygiene practices around wounds, using antiseptics and dressings where needed.
• Isolate infected animals immediately to prevent any potential spread.

Maintaining Agricultural Trade Amid Regional Threats

The screw worm threat coincides with the Fusarium fungus issue affecting Belize’s sugarcane, underscoring the challenges facing the nation’s agricultural sector. As both cane and cattle farmers work to protect their crops and livestock from these infestations, they play a critical role in preserving Belize’s export economy. By taking individual responsibility and embracing proactive measures, farmers can help shield Belize from economic fallout and maintain its standing as a reliable trade partner.

Belize’s agricultural future depends on farmers’ resilience and adaptability to evolving pest and disease challenges. Through vigilant practices and community cooperation, Belize can continue to protect its markets and support the livelihoods of its agricultural workers.