In a strategic move to bolster agricultural production, the Jamaican government is looking to use lands once dedicated to sugar-cane cultivation as potential hotspots for agricultural revitalization.
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, unveiled the Ministry’s ambitious program aimed at providing farmers with access to arable lands, particularly former sugar-cane territories, to foster crop cultivation and livestock rearing.
“For years, old sugar-cane lands have sat idly, but we have a plan to make those lands productive and contribute to the growth of the agriculture sector,” he said.
Diverse utilization plans for former sugar-cane lands
Outlined during a ceremony marking the issuance of Letters of Possession for lands at Old Hampden in Wakefield, Trelawny last month, Minister Green articulated the multifaceted vision for the utilization of these reclaimed lands.
The plan entails earmarking at least 1,000 hectares for a dedicated livestock zone accommodating cattle and small ruminants.
Additionally, 500 hectares are designated for the cultivation of fruit-bearing trees, including ackee, breadfruit, and mango. Further, a substantial 2,500 hectares are slated for diversified agricultural production.
Aligning with new FACE of Food Initiative
This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Government’s New FACE of Food program, a comprehensive strategy revolving around four pivotal pillars: food security, agribusiness development, adoption of climate-smart technologies, and expansion of agricultural exports.
Minister Green emphasized the overarching objective of propelling Jamaica’s agricultural sector forward, with the ultimate aim of augmenting its contribution to the national gross domestic product (GDP) while ensuring sustainable food provision.
“As such, we continue to work to get every arable land into agricultural production. We also continue to encourage backyard gardening as we truly tackle this goal of attaining food security,” he added.
Reinvigorating former sugar-cane lands
The Government’s concerted efforts to reinvigorate former sugar-cane lands underscore a broader commitment to fostering agricultural renaissance.
By leveraging these untapped resources, Jamaica aims to fortify its agricultural foundation, paving the way for sustained economic growth and food sovereignty.
