Celebrating the tireless efforts of our farmers
THIS ADMINISTRATION is keen on creating and improving the nation’s ability to increase its food production both for local consumption and establishing dominance in relevant international markets. It is most imperative now, when watching global trends, to ensure we preserve our natural resources and enhance our technological capacities to achieve our desired goals of national sustainability and, ultimately, less dependency on the import markets.
With this in mind, I take the opportunity to congratulate the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) on the staging of its 35th annual National Farmers’ Month with an emphasis on appreciation for the timeless and tireless efforts of our farmers all across Jamaica, many of whom specialise in crops and food groups challenged by the unforeseen elements of natural disasters. They persevere and progress under the most challenging economic times and are largely responsible for Jamaica’s ability to sustain itself under the cover of real food security.
Our farmers are the key to national development, and agriculture carries far more weight than only produce procured from the farmlands. The wide reach and importance of agriculture also speak to it having a multisectoral function. It is also linked to employment, health, technology and finance. Agricultural development in any nation has the ability and overwhelming potential to lead a country and, by extension, the world out of famine and severe bad practices in health around the globe.
We must lead and encourage initiatives like the annual Farmers’ Month and create a greater awareness in our citizenry that leads to greater food security and potential for all Jamaicans. I applaud the efforts of the JAS and look forward to the further initiatives and consultations needed to advance our agricultural spaces and markets.