On September 11, Embrapa Meio-Norte hosted the seminar "Profruti: Technological Advances and Innovation in Piauí Fruit Farming," presenting the project's results and discussing prospects for strengthening the sector. The program included presentations, producer testimonies, and a roundtable on government interventions.
The Technology Transfer and Innovation Project (Profruti), now completing its first phase, aims to develop irrigated fruit farming in Piauí with technologies created by Embrapa and its partners. According to coordinator Valdemício Ferreira, researcher at Embrapa Meio-Norte, "We are working to elevate Piauí's fruit farming to a higher level."
Ferreira pointed to factors such as growing fruit consumption, access to regional and export markets, available natural resources, new irrigated areas, and the release of new varieties. He also noted that "throughout the state of Piauí, with adaptations, it is possible to produce grapes, a crop that has demanding climatic conditions."
However, Ferreira stressed the need for political decisions, sector organization, investment, credit, continuous technical assistance, technology, and stable markets with regular supply to consolidate fruit production. He said that integrated work between institutions and producers is required to support development.
Researcher Francisco Seixas presented results including the implementation of Technical Reference Units, field days, events, producer training, and the validation of Embrapa technologies. Publications are also being prepared for distribution to growers.
Farmer Maria de Lourdes Pereira de Sousa, from the Marrecas settlement in São João do Piauí, highlighted the participatory nature of the project: "Embrapa didn't come along and impose technologies; everything was thought out together with us." She produces several grape varieties and described her participation as a source of pride for family farmers.
The roundtable brought together Ferreira, Anísio Lima Neto (head of Embrapa Meio-Norte), federal deputy Merlong Solano, state deputy Francisco Limma, João Xavier (president of Fapepi), and farmer Márcio Polla Conte. Discussions emphasized the need for greater investment and political action to support irrigated fruit farming in Piauí.
Solano stated: "I am available not only to discuss the matter, but also to develop solutions," pledging to continue allocating resources to Embrapa. Limma also called for political decisions that could transform the sector. João Xavier described Profruti as the structuring foundation of fruit farming development in the state.
Source: Abrafrutas