Environment being created to facilitate local agribusiness

Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, Hon. Audley Shaw says an enabling environment is being created to facilitate the development of agribusiness in Jamaica.
He noted that this is being made possible through the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) with the establishment of the National Agribusiness Council.
“This aligns with the five-year National Agribusiness Strategy. The plan is to transform Jamaica from a legacy of plantation-based economy to a modern agribusiness economy fit for the 21st century,” he said.
Mr. Shaw’s remarks were delivered on his behalf by Interim Chief Executive Officer of the National Fisheries Authority, Courtney Cole, at the opening ceremony of the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) Alumni Association’s Founders’ Weekend in Portland on January 24.
The overarching aim of the agribusiness strategy seeks to identify and address challenges affecting the development of agribusiness locally and explore value-chain opportunities that will support the creation of jobs in the sector.
Mr. Shaw emphasised the importance of young farmers and the “big role” they will play in the process of modernisation by offering solutions that will help to transform the agriculture sector.
Meanwhile, in remarks delivered on behalf of CASE President, Dr. Derrick Deslandes, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Lilieth Clarke-Sinclair said the Founders’ Weekend, which is a calendar event, brings together the institution’s population and recognises the hard work of the alumni in assisting the institution to surmount some of its challenges.
For his part, Alumni President Pius Lacan said the three-day Founders’ Weekend provides an opportunity for past students to share information on critical topics related to agriculture with the current student body.
“So it is part of our programme to enhance their competencies in preparation for the world of work,” he said.
Following the opening ceremony, a panel discussion was held to discuss the status of agriculture and its socio-economic impact.
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