State Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Franklin Witter (second from right), listens to Acting Regional Manager for Jamaica 4-H Clubs Western Region, Natanish Hinds (right), during a tour of booths at the Westmoreland Agricultural Show held at Bay Road Sports Complex in Little London on Sunday, June 2. Looking on are Regional Home Economics Specialist for Jamaica 4-H Clubs Western Region, Claudia Elvey (left), and Chief Technical Director in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Orville Palmer.
June 5, 2024 (JIS):
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining is ramping up crop and livestock production in Westmoreland under the New FACE of Food initiative.
The plans were outlined by State Minister, Hon. Franklin Witter, while addressing the Westmoreland Agricultural Show held at Bay Road Sports Complex in Little London on Sunday (June 2).
He said the Ministry is aiming to establish 50 hectares of new orchards for high-demand “ABM crops” – ackee, banana and mango – engaging 20 farmers who will each cultivate 2.5 hectares.
“This is a new initiative that we are implementing. We have realised that there is great demand for Jamaican mango, breadfruit [and ackee], and we want to give support to farmers to embark on the production [of these crops],” Mr. Witter said.
He noted that tubers are another priority, with plans to involve 25 farmers in establishing 12 new hectares dedicated to yam and sweet potato, which are being actively promoted under the New FACE of Food initiative.
The small ruminant subsector will also get a boost in Westmoreland, which has long demonstrated strong capabilities in this area.
“It is anticipated that 25 farmers will take part in this programme,” Mr. Witter pointed out.
Minister Witter told the farmers that the Government “recognises the sacrifices” they make and is committed to providing the necessary support to realise greater outcomes for the agricultural sector.
The Westmoreland Agricultural Show was held under the theme ‘New FACE of Food: Driving Food Security and Expanding Exports’.
The event was organised by the Ministry, Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) and other stakeholders. It featured an array of activities and exhibits showcasing Jamaica’s vibrant agricultural landscape.
These included livestock display, crop exhibitions, and demonstrations of modern farming techniques.
The New FACE of Food initiative focuses on four strategic pillars – food security, agribusiness development, climate-smart technologies, and export expansion.
