Japan:Fukushima farmer awarded by FAO
Laaska News Oct. 17,2011
A fruit grower located within the Fukushima nuclear disaster region has won an award by a UN food agency for her contribution to advances in agriculture.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization recognized 62 year old Satoko Anzai as a model farmer. She is the first Japanese to win an award by the FAO.
The ceremony in Bangkok, Thailand, was held on Sunday as part of World Food Day. Anzai received the award from Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn during the presentation.
,
Anzai grows peaches, apples and other fruit with her husband and son. She is known for her pioneering work to develop chemical-free cultivation methods with high yields.
She’s also organized a nationwide network that studies agricultural management from a woman’s standpoint.
The FAO says it hopes that Anzai winning the award will boost the spirits of those suffering from the March 11th disaster and subsequent nuclear crisis.
The innovative farmer said her thoughts immediately went to the victims of the March disaster when she she won the award. She added that the disaster-hit farmers in Fukushima, filled her mind.
Anzai’s home and warehouse were damaged in the March disaster. But she offered food and support to those living near the crippled nuclear power plant who had to flee from their homes.
NHK.
Laaska News.
www.laaska.wordpress.com
