In response to the current drought conditions plaguing farming communities across Jamaica, the government has taken proactive measures to support affected farmers.
Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, announced significant initiatives during a statement in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (April 9).
Delivering Water to farming communities
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, under the leadership of Prime Minister Holness, has been actively engaged in supplying water to farmers in need.
Holness highlighted the efforts made by the Ministry and the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) to support communities in Clarendon, St. Elizabeth, Manchester, and Trelawny, which have been severely affected by the drought.
During the period from January to March 2024, more than nine million gallons of water have been trucked to approximately 900 farmers to mitigate the impact of the dry spell.
Additionally, the Ministry has distributed 9,000 square meters of pond liners, benefiting 45 recipients.
These measures enable farmers to better harvest their crops and utilize the limited rainfall effectively.
Assistance through the National Irrigation Commission
The National Irrigation Commission (NIC) has also played a crucial role in providing support to farmers.
Mr. Holness revealed that the NIC has distributed forty-four 650-gallon tanks, fourteen 1,000-gallon tanks, and four hundred 12-millimeter reels of drip hoses.
This assistance significantly aids farmers during the drought, allowing them to maintain their agricultural activities.
Ramped-up support amidst peak dry season
As the country enters the peak of the dry season, the government is intensifying its support efforts. A total of $60 million has been earmarked to address water trucking, provide additional drip irrigation, and offer assistance to livestock farmers.
These measures aim to alleviate the hardships faced by farmers and ensure the sustainability of agricultural activities.
Focus on water resilience in schools
Recognizing the importance of water resilience in schools, Prime Minister Holness emphasized the need for proactive measures.
He instructed Rural Water Supply Limited to collaborate with the Ministry of Education and Youth to conduct a national assessment of schools’ water-storage capacity.
This initiative aims to improve water-storage facilities in schools, enabling them to better withstand water shortages.
Condemnation of water tank theft
Prime Minister Holness condemned the recent theft of a water tank from Negril Primary School in Westmoreland. He described the act as despicable, especially during a national crisis where every drop of water counts.
He urged the police to conduct a thorough investigation, recover the stolen tank, and bring the perpetrators to justice.
