What's Happening?
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining in Jamaica has announced a plan to rebuild the poultry sector following the loss of over 1.1 million birds due to Hurricane Melissa. Minister Floyd Green
revealed that the ministry will allocate approximately $40 million to revitalize backyard chicken operations, purchasing 100,000 broiler chickens to support small farmers. The initiative aims to restore self-sufficiency in chicken meat production, which was significantly impacted by the hurricane. The ministry will also provide chicken feed and rebuild infrastructure, including chicken coops.
Why It's Important?
The poultry sector is vital to Jamaica's food security, with small backyard farmers accounting for 35% of the broiler chicken industry. The loss of birds represents a significant setback, particularly in egg production, where half of the layer flock was affected. The ministry's plan to rebuild the sector is crucial for restoring production levels and supporting farmers who rely on poultry farming for their livelihoods. The initiative also highlights the importance of disaster preparedness and recovery efforts in agriculture.
What's Next?
The ministry will continue to provide resources and support to affected farmers, including seeds and fertilizers for crop production. The rebuilding efforts will focus on enhancing infrastructure to withstand future hurricanes, ensuring long-term resilience in the poultry sector. Farmers are encouraged to reach out to the Rural Agricultural Development Authority for assistance.
