The Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Hon. Vatimi Rayalu while addressing the participants of the Pacific Agricultural Plant Genetic Resources Network (PAPGREN) meeting at the Pearl South Pacific Resort in Pacific Harbour this week, encouraged the participants to work together to protect the plant genetic resources, empower the local communities, and build a sustainable future for the Pacific region and beyond.

He said plant genetic resources play a vital role in global food security, human well-being, and environmental sustainability.

“These resources encompass the diversity of plant species, varieties and their associated genetic material that underpin our agriculture, providing us with essential food, feed, fibre, and fuel. They are the building blocks of resilience, adaptation, and innovation for future generations,” said Hon. Rayalu.

He said the Pacific Region is home to a wealth of unique plant genetic resources, many of which are adapted to specific local environments and possess traits that are critical for addressing the challenges of climate change, pests, and diseases.

“However, these resources are under threat because of various factors, including changing land use patterns, habitat destruction, invasive species, unsustainable agricultural practices, and the erosion of traditional knowledge systems,” he said.

To address these challenges effectively, Hon. Rayalu said there is a need to enhance coordination and collaboration at all levels, within and among countries, research institutions, indigenous communities and regional and international organisations.

He said cooperation is key to unlocking the full potential of plant genetic resources for sustainable food and agriculture in our Pacific Region.

“We must invest in research for development to enhance our understanding of plant genetic resources and their potential applications. This includes studying the genetic traits of local crops and wild relatives, conducting breeding programs to develop resilient and high-yielding varieties, and exploring innovative techniques such as biotechnology and genomics to speed up the conservation and utilization of our plant genetic resources,” said Hon. Rayalu.

He stressed the need to value and respect the traditional knowledge and practices of indigenous communities in the Pacific.

“The indigenous people have been preserving plant genetic resources for centuries, and they possess a wealth of knowledge about plant species, their cultural importance, and their uses,” said Hon. Rayalu.

To ensure a fair sharing of benefits derived from plant genetic resources, he said, it is imperative to engage in meaningful dialogues and foster partnerships with indigenous communities, enabling their active involvement in decision-making processes.

Hon. Rayalu said the importance of International collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by the Pacific region.

“We must forge partnerships with global institutions, donor agencies, and technical expertise, funding, and technology transfer.”

He added that collaboration can facilitate the exchange of information, best practices, and capacity-building initiatives, enabling us to build a robust network of support for the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources.

“The path ahead will be challenging, but we will overcome it together. Enhancing coordination and collaboration can unlock the complete potential of plant genetic resources in our region, ensuring sustainable agriculture, food and nutrition security, and the preservation of our natural heritage,” said Hon. Rayalu.

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