In a proactive move to safeguard the local agricultural sector, the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Transformation held a specialized educational session on the Giant African Snail on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
The event took place at the Buccament Government School in DuBois as a key component of the Vermont Our People United (VOPU) Summer Programme. The session was led by Cassile Walsh-De Jong, Supervisor of the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit, alongside Agricultural Instructors Renrick Williams and Sharon Richards.
The interactive presentation focused on teaching young participants about the characteristics of the Giant African Snail and the severe threat it poses to agriculture. Instructors also detailed vital methods for the control and eradication of the invasive pest.
The session was met with significant enthusiasm from the students, who actively engaged with the facilitators by asking insightful questions about the snail and its impact on the environment.
This outreach activity is part of an ongoing public awareness campaign spearheaded by the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit. The initiative aims to educate communities on the devastating impact the Giant African Snail can have on the agricultural sector while emphasizing the critical importance of preventing its spread.
By involving the youth, the Ministry hopes to build a community-wide defense against this invasive species, ensuring that future generations are equipped with the knowledge to protect local food sources.
