By Stavris Attouni:
And if you are wondering what Colocasia esculenta is, it is nothing more than the colocasia-pulses Savior! From this year, Sotira and Kolokasi go together, since our Municipality has successfully managed to certify it as a Product of Protected Designation of Origin.
So why not Sotira Famagusta become the capital of the colocasia since it produces about 90% of the Cypriot production?
In an article by the late Vice President of the CTO, Mr. Costas Koumis, entitled "Can Sotira mark her mark on the international tourist map?" The importance and value of this product in the tourist development of Sotira is presented in enough detail. A position that I believe the citizens of Sotira share and we thank him for his support.
So think, the tourists who come for holidays in Cyprus but also locals, to visit our Municipality to try and buy this unique product! A product that they know as an ornamental aquatic plant but have not imagined that it is edible and in fact very tasty. Also consider people connecting Kolokasi with Sotira like Embroidery with Lefkara…
This goal certainly requires patience and teamwork, but it is realistic!
Some possible ideas are the promotion of traditional and new recipes in our local restaurants, the production and sale in family workshops of coconut products such as sweets and jams, creation and promotion to the general public of alternative recipes, activities to promote sustainable development, educational activities for students from other parts of Cyprus and why not a Kolokassi Museum!
In addition, attracting visitors and generally promoting Kolokassi-Poullas Sotiras, will highlight our churches and other religious monuments, museums, the square and the seafront.
Two very basic components to this process are the unity of all citizens and the support of those involved, especially our producers. The current Mayor, the municipal council and the municipal services must play a leading, supporting and guiding role. Citizens and organized groups can come up with ideas through a pool of thought and contribute to volunteer work. It is possible to use local, co-financed and European programs to support producers and even new family workshops.
I promote local products, I strengthen my Province!
Stavri Attouni
Active Citizen Savior