There’s been a lot of talk about the farmland lately. Believe in Haiti has really pushed to get the farming program going, and for good reason. For the next few months Haiti will be in the rainy season, the ideal time for crops to grow. A few months ago we began, and have since completed, fencing off the farmland. During the last few months we have worked with local agricultural experts to make sure the farming is done right. There were MANY people in St. Rock excited to join the farming cause. We now have seven teams with team leaders who receive ongoing training from a local agronomist. As of a few weeks ago, they have planted plenty of manioc.
Perhaps you have heard of it, as it is also called cassava or yucca. Manioc is a very versatile crop to have in Haiti. It can be ground into a flour to create breads and crackers. The root can be used by extracting the starch and using it like tapioca in puddings, pies, soups, and other forms. The root can also be cooked and sliced or mashed, similar to a potato.
Manioc contains a significant source of calories and carbohydrates, as well as a small amount of fiber and other vitamins. Our vision for the manioc crop is not only to provide a source of food for the people in St. Rock, but also a source of income. When they are trained on how to cook and prepare manioc properly, a wide range of possibilities develop for going to market and creating products to sell.