Jamaica’s Agriculture Minister Advocates for Enhanced Animal Feed Production

In response to Hurricane Beryl’s effects, Jamaica’s Agriculture Minister, Floyd Green, is calling for increased animal feed production to enhance food security and reduce import reliance. He highlights the need for public-private partnerships and notes significant past import expenditures for animal feed, asserting the urgency of self-sufficiency in agriculture.

The Caribbean region, particularly Jamaica, is taking proactive measures following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which severely affected agriculture. Jamaica’s Agriculture Minister, Floyd Green, is advocating for an increased local production of animal feed to enhance food security and reduce dependence on imports. This initiative is aimed at fortifying the island’s agricultural sector and mitigating future vulnerabilities.

Minister Green emphasizes the importance of establishing public-private partnerships to support local food production and lower costs associated with importing feed. A report from the Jamaica Observer highlights that in 2023, Jamaica imported animal feed worth approximately US$11.19 million from the United States, underscoring the urgent need for self-sufficiency.

The Statistical Institute of Jamaica revealed that from January to July 2023, the total import expenditure reached about US$4.44 billion. Minister Green also referenced the feed shortages experienced in 2022, which significantly impacted Jamaica’s pig and poultry sectors, leading to livestock losses and reduced availability of meat supplies.

In summary, Jamaica is prioritizing animal feed production to strengthen its food security in light of recent challenges. Minister Floyd Green’s advocacy for public-private partnerships highlights the government’s intent to reduce dependency on imports and bolster local agriculture. The recent import figures further underscore the necessity of these initiatives to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and avoid past losses.

Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com