Visit to a rice-growing project run by the Coordination des Associations pour le Développement Intégral de la Première Section des Cayes (CADIPS)

Their Excellencies went to the town of Madame Combe to visit a rice-growing project run by CADIPS, which was created in 1998 in a rural region of Les Cayes and brings together 30 small groups of agricultural producers. Upon their arrival, Their Excellencies were treated to a warm welcome by 1,500 people.

Their Excellencies received thankful testimonials for the humanitarian efforts provided by Canada. The Governor General then visited rice fields and the main irrigation canal built by Canada. Subsidized a number of times by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), the purpose of this project is to improve the producers’ living conditions through a community development program.

After visiting the rice fields and the main irrigation canal built by Canada, the Governor General spoke to the crowd: "I know that the next harvest will be a good one. That, I hope, will help to begin the healing process. Agriculture is so important. It is concrete, it is life itself, it is where hope is to be found." said.

The Governor General took the time to speak with children gathered at this event.

The visit to a rice-growing project run by CADIPS was truly a moment of joy. The Government of Canada also announced the donation of a rice mill.