A contemporary irrigation system to serve the 700-acre Parnassus Agro Park in Clarendon was commissioned into service on April 23 by Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness.
“We’ve got allotted 400 of these acres particularly for small farmers. In all the things we do, we take into consideration each sector of Jamaica; we’re ensuring small farmers are included right here at Parnassus,” Dr. Holness mentioned.
He additionally introduced that a certain quantity has been allotted to ladies, youth and individuals with disabilities and, already, some 240 of the present farmers within the space had been educated in varied farming strategies by the HEART/NSTA Belief.
The mission was funded from a grant of ₤17 million (J$3.5 billion) by the British Authorities, by way of the Caribbean Funding Fund.
“Agriculture isn’t just a pillar of our economic system; it’s the basis of our nationwide meals safety. As international provide chains face growing stress and local weather change threatens conventional productive methods, it’s extra necessary than ever that we, as a rustic, can feed ourselves. A robust agricultural sector ensures that our folks have entry to inexpensive, nutritious meals, even in instances of crises,” Dr. Holness mentioned.
“This may scale back our dependence on imports and shield us from exterior shocks,” the Prime Minister emphasised.
He famous that in a world now marked by geopolitical tensions, rising power prices and unpredictable commodity markets, meals safety is now a matter of nationwide safety.
Solely about 40 per cent of Jamaica’s land mass is arable and nearly 15 per cent of that quantity is irrigated. However, underneath an intensive irrigation mission being undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, when accomplished, the Southern Plains Agricultural Challenge, Pedro Plains and Essex Valley irrigation tasks will enhance to twenty, the share of arable lands underneath irrigation.
For her half, British Excessive Commissioner to Jamaica, Her Excellency Judith Slater, mentioned the UK (UK) Authorities was proud to have funded the very important agricultural improvement mission, which speaks on to the wants of Jamaica.
“This mission will provide 9 and half million gallons of water per day and make an actual distinction,” the Excessive Commissioner mentioned.
She emphasised that the mission would offer assist to those that want it most, thereby strengthening the capability of native farmers, together with ladies, youth and the disabled.
In the meantime, Anita Facey, talking on behalf of farmers who acquired leases for land on the Agro Park, mentioned land isn’t just a bodily asset however a cornerstone of financial improvement, social stability and cultural heritage.
“The lands that at the moment are in our possession will probably be used for 3 key areas – to extend the nation’s GDP by sound entrepreneurial practices; to cut back the meals import invoice, and to enhance social stability, as a result of land possession fosters a secure and cohesive society, whereas selling the event of our communities,” Ms. Facey mentioned.
The proud co-owner of 11.5 acres of land mentioned she deliberate to provide cassava on her plot.
Ms. Facey mentioned the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining has projected that for the present yr, some 31,833 metric tons of cassava can be produced, however it might be extra when her crop is added.
She added that her cassava crop would additionally help within the mitigation of soil erosion and enhance agricultural well being alongside the southern belt.
