July 14
MYANMAR Avocado Producer and Exporter Association is endeavouring to develop the cultivation of marketable Hass avocado on a commercial scale in Leshi Township of Naga Self-Administered Zone in Sagaing Region to enhance the socio-economy of the rural community, said U Myo Nyunt, vice-chair of the association.
Awareness campaigns of the avocado growing methods were conducted in Leshi Township, in coordination with the Department of Rural Development. Leshi Township located 5,000 to 7,000 feet above sea level has favourable weather conditions for avocado commercial farming. The locals are also eyeing the crop and joining hands with the association to grow Hass avocado varieties.
“Naga Self-Administered Zone is suitable for avocado. There is no mineral exploitation in the region. Avocado trees are seen but a lack of technique hinders the growers to engage in commercial production. Therefore, nutrient management and growing techniques that suit the region are disseminated to growers in the first week of July. The association went on surveys of the avocado farms and conducted an awareness course. They managed to draw the attention of the local growers,” he elaborated.
The strength of the region is sharing a border with India. Additionally, it has penetrated markets to a great extent. To increase profitability, the systematic cultivation of avocado will be carried out. Avocado is an important crop for regional development and the local community agreed to this. Therefore, training for growing techniques is undertaken for the avocado growers to ramp up production. Cultivation of the commercially profitable Hass avocado is increasingly implemented in the township to effectuate the development of the region. — Min Htet Aung (Mandalay Sub-Printing House)/GNLM
