Patamacca Palm Oil project to commence

The starting signal for the palm oil project in Patamacca will reportedly be given next Wednesday. President Desi Bouterse is expected to give the green light on December 14 so that China Zhong Heng Tai can initiate the process aimed at producing palm oil at Patamacca which is located in the Marowijne District. 2,000 hectares are reportedly needed in the first phase and the field will gradually be expanded after talks with the local community. 1,500 hectares will be used for production and 500 hectares will be used to plant special plants and certain types of wood. About 12 million liters of palm oil will be produced each year. This will reportedly cover 60% of the local consumption. The company will reportedly need 143 workers in the first phase. Agriculture, Stock Breeding and Fisheries (LVV) Minister Soeresh Algoe recently visited the village of Ovia-olo to inform the villagers about the project. Marowijne District Commissioner Freddy Daniel also visited the village to introduce himself to the villagers and to get acquainted with them. The tribal elders and leaders of other villages were also present. The DC who was given a warm welcome told the villagers that he wants to bring progress in their region. Representatives from the Office of the President and the general manager at China Zhong Heng Tai also talked about the project with the villagers.