Workshop I IAGrop 2024 on the multiple uses and health benefits offered by turmeric, ginger, oregano and aloe vera, coordinated by the state MSME IAGrop SURL, the only one in the country dedicated to the development of science in the application of agricultural.
Engineer Reinier Vallester Cruzata, executive secretary of the organizing committee, specified that the meeting, also opened in virtual mode, was attended by researchers, professors, students, producers and those interested in the themes of the event that the motto Diversify the future of. Cuban agriculture featured four presentations from researchers and producers, and included exchanges between speakers and participants.
After an overview of the phylogenetic resources of the four plants in question and their production and commercialization at an international level, Dr.C. Miguel Ángel Esquivel Pérez, Mr.C Yadira Martínez Pérez, from the Liliana Dimitrova Horticultural Research Institute looked into the management of turmeric and ginger on agro-ecological bases.
Meanwhile, the Artemiseño producer Hidel Martínez Albiza, who loves the cultivation of turmeric, discussed the use of this plant and ginger as sustainable alternatives for agriculture and health.
Similarly, the MSC Hugo Marcelino Oliva Díaz insisted in his conference on the potential of oregano and aloe vera for agroindustrial development, without ignoring their domestic use in home remedies transmitted from generation to generation for their effectiveness created.
The event was a favorable space for Yuván Contino Esquijerosa, researcher at the Indio Hatuey Pasture and Forage Experimental Station and president of the ACTAF Young Agroecologists Association in the country, those present were invited to create alliances and establish project foundations that allow these very important bars to generalize to enforce the concept of One Health that we must build together.
Yunieck Álvarez Sago, specialist in the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment and secretary of the Financial Fund for Science (FONCI), recalled that this entity guarantees funding for Cuban projects dedicated to science and innovation, with soft and accessible credit easily when presented. the projects to the organization’s technical secretariat.
Denny Alexis Paumier Linares, administrator of the MSME whose only partner is the Agricultural Engineering Research Institute (IAgric), specified that the workshop represents the first approach to what the entity can do also based on training and alliances that creation to strengthen agricultural production from scientific bases. which contributes to higher yields and the adequate use of soil and water resources in essence.
Likewise, Dr. Yoima Chaterlán Durruthy, the scientific director of IAgric, praised the value of this event and urged to continue the training in this regard and other subjects that can greatly contribute to the development of the country from science.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Engineer Reinier Vallester Cruzata
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Engineer Vallester Cruzata! Thank you for joining us today. We’re thrilled to hear about the recent Workshop IAGrop 2024 you coordinated. What inspired the focus on turmeric, ginger, oregano, and aloe vera for this event?
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: Thank you for having me. The inspiration came from the growing recognition of these plants not only as culinary ingredients but also as powerful components in health and agroecological practices. We wanted to highlight their multifaceted uses and benefits, especially in the context of Cuban agriculture.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating! The event gathered a diverse group of attendees, including researchers and producers. What were some key takeaways from the presentations and discussions?
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: One of the central themes was the importance of agro-ecological methods in cultivating these plants. For instance, Dr. Miguel Ángel Esquivel Pérez and Ms. Yadira Martínez Pérez shed light on the sustainable management of turmeric and ginger. Hidel Martínez Albiza provided compelling insights into their uses as sustainable alternatives for agriculture and health, promoting a holistic approach.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like there was a strong emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices. How does that translate to actual benefits for local farmers and communities?
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: Absolutely! By adopting agro-ecological techniques, farmers can reduce their reliance on synthetic inputs, which can be costly and harmful to the environment. The sustainable cultivation of these plants can boost their income while contributing to healthier soil and ecosystems. The health benefits of turmeric and ginger encourage better nutritional practices in local diets as well.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the concept of “One Health” during the workshop. Can you elaborate on what that entails?
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: “One Health” is an integrated approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and environmental health. During the workshop, we invited participants to create alliances and establish projects that would advance this concept, recognizing that healthy ecosystems lead to healthier communities and, ultimately, healthier people.
Time.news Editor: That’s a powerful message. In light of this initiative, how did Yuván Contino Esquijerosa’s participation influence the discussion on collaboration?
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: Yuván’s perspective was instrumental. He encouraged the audience to think about collective efforts and partnerships. By collaborating, we can pool our resources and knowledge, enabling us to tackle challenges more effectively and implement solutions that benefit both agriculture and public health.
Time.news Editor: It seems that funding plays a vital role in these initiatives. What insights did Yunieck Álvarez Sago share regarding financing for science and innovation projects?
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: Yunieck provided valuable information about the Financial Fund for Science (FONCI), which offers accessible credit to support scientific projects. He emphasized that funding is available for innovative agricultural practices, and he encouraged attendees to present their ideas to secure financial backing. This is crucial for turning concepts into reality and driving sustainable development forward.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Engineer Vallester Cruzata, for sharing such rich insights from the workshop. What’s next on the horizon for IAGrop and your initiatives in Cuban agriculture?
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: We aim to expand our outreach and continue organizing workshops that foster knowledge sharing and collaboration. Our goal is to make sustainable practices mainstream and ensure that the benefits of these plants are realized across Cuba. We are also looking into establishing more partnerships with international research institutions to enhance our efforts.
Time.news Editor: Exciting times ahead! Thank you once again for your time and for shedding light on these important developments in agriculture and health.
Reinier Vallester Cruzata: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing these significant topics with you.