What's Happening?
A stakeholder consultation was held at the Fitz Hughes Learning Resource Centre in Richmond, focusing on sustainable irrigation infrastructure development. This initiative, led by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through its
Subregional Office for the Caribbean, aims to enhance climate-resilient agriculture and promote sustainable water management. The meeting, attended by over 97 farmers and stakeholders, is part of a broader effort to prepare a pre-feasibility proposal for a pilot irrigation scheme in the Richmond Valley. The FAO's Irrigation Infrastructure Specialist, Emilano Narpe, presented the proposed irrigation concept, which received broad support from attendees. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on local fishing and the adequacy of water sources. The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Transformation, Israel Bruce, emphasized the government's commitment to a green economy and outlined priorities such as improving marketing, legislation, and infrastructure.
Why It's Important?
The development of sustainable irrigation infrastructure is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and competitiveness in the region. By addressing water management and irrigation, the initiative aims to reduce production costs and increase the resilience of local agriculture to climate change. This project is part of a larger strategy to support the green economy, which is one of the government's key development pillars. The consultation highlights the importance of stakeholder engagement in defining project scope and mitigating risks, ensuring that the initiative meets the needs of local farmers and communities. The focus on sustainable practices aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and secure food systems.
What's Next?
The next steps involve refining the project proposal based on stakeholder feedback and conducting further assessments to ensure the feasibility and sustainability of the irrigation scheme. The government and FAO will likely continue consultations with local farmers to address concerns and incorporate their input into the project design. Additionally, the government plans to implement measures to improve agricultural marketing, legislation, and infrastructure, which will support the broader goals of the initiative. These efforts are expected to enhance the region's agricultural output and contribute to economic growth.
