A recent workshop held at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in St. Andrew focused on the ‘ADAPT Jamaica’ project. This initiative aims to boost climate resilience for small farmers in central Jamaica and is backed by a $30 million request to the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The workshop, hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), featured farmers from six parishes: Trelawny, St. Ann, St. Elizabeth, Clarendon, St. Catherine, and Manchester. They provided valuable feedback that will shape the project proposal, which is set to be submitted to GCF on April 8.
Jacinto Buenfil, an expert from the FAO, emphasized the project’s goals. “We will introduce climate-resilient farming practices and technologies while also providing climate information services. This means farmers will get timely warnings and better data to make decisions,” he said. The project aims to create model farms where effective solutions can be demonstrated, with the hope of scaling up these methods through GCF investment.
The Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) is also contributing significantly, pledging $5.6 million to the project. Dr. Milton Clarke from JSIF remarked on the importance of sustainable farming. “By equipping farmers with the right knowledge and resources, we not only enhance food production but also strengthen rural economies,” he noted.
Furthermore, Ian Chambers from the Ministry of Agriculture mentioned how this project aligns with their broader agricultural development plans. He explained that it will complement upcoming agro-parks and production zones in the region, targeting key crops like root vegetables, peppers, and tomatoes that thrive in the area. “Getting our planning right is essential for the project’s success,” he added.
With a timeline aiming for implementation by January 2026, the ADAPT Jamaica project could make a significant impact on local farming practices, helping smallholders adapt to climate challenges while securing food production.
This initiative reflects a growing trend toward sustainable agriculture, as more regions worldwide embrace innovative practices to combat climate change. Studies indicate that investment in climate-smart agriculture can lead to yield increases of up to 70%, demonstrating the potential benefits for farmers and the environment alike (source: FAO).
As communities engage with these transformative efforts, the feedback from local farmers will be crucial. Their insights and experiences will shape a future where agriculture is both resilient and sustainable.
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