KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has launched a $134-million initiative aimed at safeguarding the nation’s farmers from the harsh effects of prolonged dry spells. This large-scale intervention will provide critical resources, including water storage solutions, irrigation equipment, and moisture-preserving materials to bolster agricultural resilience.
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, Floyd Green, announced the initiative at a recent post-Cabinet press briefing, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring food security despite erratic weather patterns.
A significant portion of the funding—$79 million—will be allocated towards acquiring water tanks and drip irrigation hoses, which are expected to be available for distribution by the end of March. This move builds on previous efforts, where 171 irrigation kits and 178 water tanks were supplied to farmers in recent months.
In addition to water storage, the program earmarks $30 million for water trucking services, with $14 million designated for the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and $16 million for the National Irrigation Commission (NIC). These agencies will work to ensure that farms in critical need receive timely water deliveries.
Further measures include a $10-million investment in pond liners, designed to enhance on-site water retention, and an $8-million allocation for mulch, a crucial material that helps preserve soil moisture and reduce evaporation.
Recognizing the importance of efficient water use, the ministry has also partnered with Food For the Poor to distribute 100 small water pumps to farmers. These pumps will support on-farm water management and storage, ensuring that water resources are used effectively.
“With changing climate conditions, we have to be proactive,” Green stated. “This initiative is designed to provide farmers with the tools they need to maintain production levels, even during the most challenging periods.”
Farmers in need of assistance are encouraged to contact their local RADA offices or the NIC for support. The initiative comes at a crucial time, as recent data reveals that seven out of Jamaica’s 13 parishes recorded the lowest average rainfall in three decades this past December.
The government’s drought relief measures signal a strategic approach to strengthening Jamaica’s agricultural sector against climate-related challenges, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to food sustainability and economic stability.
