February 22, 2025
President Dr. Irfaan Ali has outlined a comprehensive plan to advance the Caribbean’s agriculture sector, reinforcing food security, resilience, and competitiveness across the region.
Speaking at the closing press conference of the 48th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in Barbados, Dr. Ali emphasized the importance of modernization and sustainability in agricultural development.
As the CARICOM Head of Government with responsibility for agriculture, Dr. Ali detailed a holistic framework aimed at transforming the sector.
The plan focuses on modernizing agricultural infrastructure, integrating technology-driven solutions, and increasing participation from women and youth in strengthening regional food supply chains.
To achieve these objectives, six strategic projects have been developed in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).
These initiatives are designed to boost productivity, improve access to resources, and enhance the overall efficiency of the sector.
Among the key components of the plan is the establishment of a new food centre and a digital platform that will provide farmers with real-time data and predictive analytics.
These tools are expected to play a crucial role in improving sustainability and increasing agricultural output.
Additionally, the development of a Situation Room and data hub is underway.
This initiative aims to deliver vital technical support to farmers across the Caribbean, offering insights and guidance to optimize production and ensure long-term food security in the region.
The CARICOM framework represents a significant step toward achieving a more resilient and self-sufficient food system, aligning with the region’s broader goals of reducing import dependency and fostering agricultural innovation.