By Delicia Janneire | January 4, 2025
President Dr. Irfaan Ali visited Craig Vegetables (CV) Hydroponics Farm in Friendship yesterday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the growth of hydro-farming through the Ministry of Agriculture.
The farm, led by founder Kitaka Craig, has gained recognition for its success in producing a variety of fresh vegetables such as lettuce, kale, spinach, mint, parsley, and cilantro.
During his tour, President Ali praised the farm’s operations and highlighted its role in modernizing food security strategies.
He encouraged the farm to explore broader distribution avenues, including partnerships with local supermarkets and regional markets, to expand the reach of their produce.
In his address, President Ali said: “This is food security, this is building innovation, entrepreneurship, science and technology.”
He also suggested discussions with regional markets to bring products like purple leaf lettuce and baby spinach to a wider audience.
The President further pledged ongoing government support for the farm, calling it a “game changer” for food security in the country.
Kitaka Craig, the owner of CV Hydroponics Farm, explained that the farm’s hydroponic system ensures each plant receives optimal nourishment through a filtration system and a tailored diet for each crop.
Craig also shared that the farm operates on less than 2 acres of land, yet produced over 33,000 pounds of lettuce and 9,000 pounds of kale last year alone.
President Ali’s visit underscores the importance of innovative farming methods in ensuring sustainable food production and meeting the demands of the nation.