KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaican Government is intensifying its commitment to agricultural research and innovation, earmarking $999.4 million for the continued rehabilitation of key research facilities in the 2025/26 fiscal year.
This initiative falls under the Rehabilitation of Research Centres Project, originally launched in April 2024 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining. With this significant allocation, authorities aim to transform the nation’s agricultural research hubs into world-class centres of excellence, fostering economic growth and sustainability in the sector.
The 2025/26 Estimates of Expenditure, tabled by Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Fayval Williams, outline the next phase of infrastructural improvements across multiple research locations. The project focuses on enhancing facilities at North and South Bodles in St. Catherine, as well as outstations in St. Andrew, St. Mary, St. Elizabeth, and St. James.
By the end of 2024, several milestones had already been reached, including the installation of modular office spaces, procurement of irrigation equipment, and significant progress on facility upgrades at Bodles. Notable advancements include 65% completion of a cattle race, a 37% completion rate on a modern piggery, and ongoing enhancements to irrigation and office spaces.
Looking ahead to 2025/26, the government has outlined a robust agenda. Key projects include the completion of the piggery, commencement of a perimeter wall at South Bodles, and the construction of housing for dairy workers. Additionally, infrastructure improvements will extend to irrigation systems, livestock housing, storage facilities, and pasture fencing across Montpelier.
A major technological upgrade is also planned, with the installation of a herd management system, improved street lighting, and irrigation enhancements for a 15-acre pasture in Montpelier. These efforts reflect a holistic approach to bolstering Jamaica’s agricultural research framework, ensuring long-term productivity and innovation.
Slated for completion by March 2030, the entire project is expected to cost approximately $6.3 billion. This sustained investment underscores the government’s vision of modernizing agriculture, strengthening food security, and positioning Jamaica as a leader in agricultural research and development.
