Government Tackles Agricultural Challenges with Land Leasing, Farmer Incentives, and Youth Engagement Initiatives

The government says it is determined to address several challenges that are affecting the development of agriculture here.

Minister, Honourable John Osborne says the lack of suitable and accessible land for both crop and livestock farming is one of the main problems plaguing the sector.

He announces, however, that discussions are being held with a private landowner to lease 50 acres of land, explaining that this land is to be cleared, sub-divided, and provided with running water.

Another problem identified is the lack of consistent farming throughout the year, as many farmers are considered part-time farmers.

Minister Osborne says this reduces the overall level of food production on the island.

He revealed that there are programmes to incentivize farmers and encourage full-time production, such as the provision of field fencing wire, irrigation supplies, fertilizer, seeds and tractoring.

These are supplemented by an increase in extension services to farmers.

The agriculture minister says the ministry has also embarked on an initiative to actively encourage young persons to enter professional farming.

Demonstration models for hydroponic and aquaponic production have been set up to allow new farmers to experience different types of production systems, which can offer greater yield utilizing small spaces and requiring less input.