President Daniel Noboa emphasized the necessity of having a National Assembly that aligns with his administration during his visit to three cantons in Manabí on September 4th. His visit was marked by the inauguration of crucial infrastructure projects aimed at supporting the region’s agricultural sector, particularly with irrigation systems and floodgates.

Noboa concluded his visit to Manabí in the Crucita parish of Portoviejo, where he announced the completion and operation of nine floodgates on the Portoviejo, Chico, and Carrizal rivers. These floodgates, he explained, are essential for guaranteeing water for approximately 8,000 hectares of crops and for benefiting nearly 897,000 people by ensuring irrigation during droughts and controlling water levels during floods.

The president stressed that such projects are pivotal for improving the lives of farmers and supporting food sovereignty in the region.

Earlier in the day, the president visited Rocafuerte, where he inaugurated three advanced parcel irrigation systems that benefit the cantons of Rocafuerte, Portoviejo, and Jipijapa. The government invested close to $2 million in these systems, which are designed to make farming more sustainable by ensuring year-round water access.

Noboa highlighted how the systems would relieve farmers from the costs and unpredictability of water tankers, allowing crops like cocoa, lemons, bananas, and various vegetables to thrive.

“This New Ecuador doesn’t depend on just one person. It requires all of us working together. A president without the support of an Assembly moves forward, but slowly,” Noboa said, alluding to the upcoming legislative elections in February. He appealed to citizens to elect lawmakers who would work alongside him to implement real change.

The president also addressed his frequent visits to Manabí, mentioning that it had been the site of numerous political challenges. However, he vowed to continue prioritizing the province, despite political opposition, by focusing on concrete solutions to local problems.

Beyond the irrigation systems, the government also introduced several other initiatives during the president’s visit. Noboa and Minister of Agriculture Danilo Palacios handed out certificates to 50 producers graduating as rural leaders, and 77 land titles were granted, benefiting over 300 people by legalizing 194 hectares of land.

Other significant contributions included the distribution of agricultural seals, compensation checks, and agricultural loans aimed at supporting local farmers.

These additional measures highlight Noboa’s broader strategy to empower Manabí’s agricultural sector, ensuring that it remains a key player in Ecuador’s economy.

The president concluded his tour with a message of resilience and hope, vowing to fight against those who would see the country fail. He reaffirmed his commitment to working with the people of Manabí to build a stronger, more self-sufficient future.