Coconut Comeback: Farmers receive inputs for recovery

 


In a collaborative effort to bolster the coconut industry, the Agro-Investment Corporation (Agro-Invest) and the Coconut Industry Board (CIB) recently presented resources to 20 farmers impacted by Hurricane Beryl. 

The relief program, a component of the Alliances for Coconut Industry Development for the Caribbean Phase II, aims to empower farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to recover from the devastating storm and thrive in a competitive global market.

Data from 2019 indicates that Jamaica reaped 129.4 million coconuts. Based on the price paid by the Coconut Board in that year for the nuts, the sector is now valued at $5.82 billion. That implies an average price of around $45 per coconut.

Jamaica currently has about 40,000 acres of land under coconut, and 43,000 growers. The Coconut Board wants to add another 60,000 acres, mainly in eastern Jamaica, and is collaborating with private companies Seprod, Fred M. Jones Estate and CB Group on the initiative.

Coconuts are sold locally and exported in the form of dry coconuts, jelly coconuts and seed coconuts. A small amount of Jamaica’s coconuts are exported.

Held at the Amity Hall Agro Park in St. Catherine, the presentation ceremony was part of an overall response valued in excess of $4 million. Amity Hall coconut farmers were presented with critical inputs, including 250 high-quality seedlings, 34 bags of premium fertilizer, and a shared spray pan to boost productivity. This support extends to other farming groups across the island, with farmers at Ebony Agro Park in Clarendon set to receive their inputs later this month.

 "Our farmers are the backbone of Jamaica's agricultural sector," said Vivion Scully, CEO of Agro-Invest. "This program goes beyond simply providing resources; it focuses on empowering farmers to increase their output, access new markets, and build a sustainable future for themselves and their communities."

 Shaun Cameron, CEO of the CIB, added, "Hurricane Beryl tragically impacted our coconut industry, causing the loss of over 3,000 trees. This relief program demonstrates our commitment to helping farmers recover and thrive. By providing them with the necessary tools, knowledge, and market access, we are enabling them to transition into successful and globally competitive enterprises."

 The Alliances for Coconut Industry Development for the Caribbean Phase II aims to enhance the competitiveness of small-scale farmers by promoting sustainable production practices, improving market access, and fostering strong partnerships within the industry. This initiative will enable farmers, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and other value chain actors to thrive in a resilient and dynamic agricultural ecosystem.

 The Agro-Investment Corporation commended the Coconut Industry Board and key partners, such as Newport Fersan (Jamaica) Limited.

 

Information source: Agro-Investment Corporation

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