Three officers from Dominica’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy participated in a regional training programme in Belize aimed at improving the detection and control of invasive fruit fly species. The Basic Training Course on Fruit Fly Early Detection and Rapid Response was conducted from October 12–16, 2026, with Dominica represented by Nelissa Coipel of the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit, Frontline Quarantine Officer Shanelle George, and West Agricultural Region Extension Officer Davis Carbon.
Organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency in partnership with the Belize Agricultural Health Authority, the programme brought together Caribbean representatives for practical training and the exchange of technical knowledge. Participants examined fruit fly identification, surveillance, monitoring and early intervention strategies designed to prevent the establishment and spread of these pests, which threaten agricultural production, food supplies and international trade.
The Ministry said the officers’ newly acquired skills would strengthen Dominica’s plant health and biosecurity efforts, particularly through improved quarantine procedures, field surveillance and collaboration with farmers. Fruit flies pose a threat to crops such as mangoes, guavas, carambolas and certain citrus varieties. The Ministry added that continued professional development and regional cooperation remain important to protecting agricultural resources, supporting farmers’ livelihoods and building greater resilience within Dominica’s agricultural sector.
