Direct Support for Farmers From $1.2Bn Allocation

• The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining has reiterated its commitment to the agricultural sector, with the allocation of $1.2Bn to the Production and Productivity Programme, to provide direct support to farmers.
• Portfolio Minister, Hon. Floyd Green, pointed out that the nation’s farmers are particularly deserving of support, following the many devastating situations the sector endured in 2024. He highlighted that last year began with a drought, and when farmers were expecting rain, Hurricane Beryl ravaged sections of southern Jamaica. This was followed by Tropical Storm Rafael in November and incessant rain.  
• To further bolster the resilience of the agricultural sector, the Minister said through the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA), at least 10,000 new coffee seedlings will be distributed in the coming months, so coffee farmers can expand their yields and replace ageing crops.
• In addition to coffee, Minister Green said focus will be placed on various crops, including Irish potato, ginger, cassava, dasheen and lime. This will be accomplished through the Production and Productivity Programme.

(Source: JIS)