Feb 2025: FONTAGRO Delegation Visits Rautāpatu in Taranaki
In an exciting development for global agricultural collaboration, the FONTAGRO delegation, comprising Jorge Juan Ganoza Roncal from Peru and Eugenia Saini from Argentina, visited us in Taranaki. Their trip was part of a larger mission to foster partnerships and share agricultural innovation across continents with Aotearoa, NZ. The group was also accompanied by representatives from the Ministry of Primary Industries.
The delegation was warmly welcomed with a pōwhiri at Katere ki te Moana Marae followed by home-grown kai and wonderful kōrero, wānanga and site visits here in New Plymouth and in South Taranaki.
FONTAGRO is described as a unique sustainable co-financing mechanism for the development of agricultural technology in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain, and establishes a forum for the discussion of priority issues of technological innovation.
Jorge Juan Ganoza Roncal, Vice President of FONTAGRO and head of INIA Peru, brings extensive expertise in managing water, forestry, and agricultural projects. His participation underscored the importance of international collaboration in advancing sustainable agriculture. Ganoza Roncal’s experience working with Irrigation User Organisations provides a strategic perspective on strengthening agricultural resilience through shared knowledge and resources.
Eugenia Saini, the Executive Secretary of FONTAGRO, is renowned for her 25 years of experience in promoting agribusiness and sustainable development. A recipient of a Fulbright scholarship and a fellowship from the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy, Saini’s presence emphasised FONTAGRO’s commitment to bolstering strategic alliances and enhancing investment in agriculture. Her leadership is instrumental in driving initiatives that aim to improve the livelihoods of farmers globally.
During their visit, the delegation explored opportunities for collaboration between Indigenous communities and Latin American countries. These discussions focused on elevating indigenous wisdom, improving pastoral systems, advancing agricultural research, and supporting shared objectives. This initiative aligns with both Rautāpatu and FONTAGRO’s mission to bolster climate-smart agricultural practices and innovative solutions across borders to build a resilient future.
The visit highlighted the shared values and mutual respect between Indigenous communities and the FONTAGRO representatives, emphasising cultural exchange as a cornerstone of their cooperation. This cultural diplomacy, coupled with strategic agricultural discussions, leaves a promising prospect for new projects and partnerships that can drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.
As the delegation continues its journey, this visit with Rautāpatu stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing global challenges in agriculture. FONTAGRO’s engagement with New Zealand’s indigenous and scientific communities marks a significant step towards enhanced agricultural resilience and sustainability. We are excited to build on the relationship and form long-term partnerships in Latin America, Caribbean and Europe.
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