KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the growing challenges posed by the ongoing dry season, the Jamaican government has launched a major initiative to protect the island’s agricultural sector. Aimed at enhancing resilience against drought, the program will allocate a total of $134 million to support farmers in critical areas.
The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, will provide a suite of resources designed to help farmers maintain productivity during the dry period. Minister Floyd Green, speaking at a recent post-Cabinet briefing, revealed that $79 million will be directed towards the procurement of water tanks and drip irrigation hoses. These supplies are expected to be distributed by the end of March, helping farmers access much-needed water management tools.
“The government recognizes the importance of agriculture to the Jamaican economy and the well-being of our citizens,” Green said. “Our efforts will ensure that farmers can continue their vital work and safeguard food production.”
A key component of the strategy is water trucking, with $30 million earmarked for this purpose. The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and the National Irrigation Commission (NIC) will receive portions of this funding to manage the distribution of water to affected areas.
Beyond irrigation, the program will also tackle soil preservation and water retention. Approximately $10 million will go toward securing pond liners, which are crucial for preventing water loss, while $8 million will fund the provision of mulch to help farmers retain moisture in the soil.
A further collaboration with Food For the Poor will see the distribution of 100 small water pumps to ensure that farmers have adequate storage and distribution capacity for the water delivered. These efforts are critical as they allow farmers to optimize water use, especially during periods of limited rainfall.
“This initiative is about more than just providing water,” Green noted. “It’s about empowering farmers to manage their resources effectively and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Jamaica’s agriculture.”
The announcement follows concerning data showing that several Jamaican parishes recorded their lowest rainfall in 30 years last December. With climate change making weather patterns increasingly unpredictable, this relief program is a vital step toward safeguarding the island’s agricultural future.
Farmers in need of assistance are encouraged to reach out to RADA or NIC to access support. This $134-million investment is expected to have a significant positive impact, ensuring that Jamaican agriculture remains strong in the face of environmental challenges.
