No economic activity with greater multiplier effect than farming

THE ‘ EAT Jamaican’ campaign was launched by the late Governor General of Jamaica, Sir Howard Cooke, through a proclamation that was issued on November 25, 2003 declaring November 25 annually as ‘Eat Jamaican’ Day. The main aim of the campaign was to “reposition the Jamaica agricultural sector through a process of integrated rural development, as well as to develop a programme of sustainable food security”.

This campaign is normally commemorated through a series of activities that seeks to capture the essence of the Proclamation as set out by the late Governor General.

It was borne out of a vision for us as a nation to ‘grow what we eat and eat what we grow’, recognising that this is the way to reposition the agricultural sector through a process of integrated rural development, as well as to develop a programme of sustainable food security. Additionally, the ‘ Eat Jamaican’ campaign was borne out of the need to encourage consumers to recognise, support and to have a greater appreciation for the range and quality of Jamaica’s agricultural produce and products.

We must start the process of true independence and many would agree that food security is one of the most important facets of true independence. It is my opinion that there is no economic activity which has a greater multiplier effect, than money that is made from farming.

The ‘Eat Jamaican’ tenets have become even more purposeful as the nation battles the global pandemic of COVID-19 and its debilitating effects on the society. There is a real need, therefore, to consume local agricultural produce filled with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to boost the immune system.

As we urge consumers today to ‘Eat Jamaican’, in the same breath we urge the farmers to increase production and to become more integrally involved in taking themselves to the next level, by offering value-added products with attractive packaging. The important point is to mobilise the production, marketing and the skills to make the campaign a success.

The Jamaica Agricultural Society recognises the importance of supporting local production in order to ensure the stability of the agricultural sector and by extension, nation-building.

As we continue to collaborate to promote the campaign, I would like to thank the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the JAS Board of Management and staff, RADA, the Jamaica 4H Clubs, our over 220,000 farmers and our stakeholders, for their continued support of this campaign.

Let us grow that we eat and eat what we grow.