National Volcano Relief Labour Assistance Program Launched

The National Volcano Relief Labour Assistance Program (NVRLAP), which is aimed at advancing productivity in St. Vincent and the Grenadines was launched on Tuesday, February 21st 2023 at the Troumaca Government School. The project is being executed by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the SVG Red Cross Society and the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints SVG.

At the ceremony, Chief Agricultural Officer, Renato Gumbs delivered welcoming remarks and reaffirmed the extension services commitment to doing more to provide assistance to farmers on the leeward side of the island.

Area Representative – North Leeward, Carlos James emphasized the need to increase production in light of the rising demand for agricultural produce locally and regionally, which is brought on by the expanding hospitality industry. He informed the gathering that the Governmental agencies are working together to erect the infrastructure required to provide ease of access to farms.

Minister of Agriculture, Hon Saboto Caesar announced the distribution of approximately 50 water tanks. Bearing in mind the limited stock, the Minister encouraged beneficiaries to share with other farmers as we are all working together to advance the agricultural sector. He informed the gathering that the Ministry of Agriculture is working assiduously to reinstate North Leeward as the breadbasket for vegetable production in SVG and the OECS.

President – SVG Red Cross Society, Alston Anderson encouraged youth and women to “rise to the challenge” and get involved in the agricultural industry. Mr. Anderson vowed that every effort would be made to guarantee that the project is a resounding success.

Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves stated that the Government allocated 27 million dollars to building the Agricultural Industry in SVG. He outlined key components of the Government’s Agricultural plan for 2023. To allow for increased food production and availability to residents, the Government will provide:

• Seeds and plants to facilitate propagation and distribution.

• Greenhouses to assist in food and vegetable production.

• Agricultural equipment and materials for farmers.

• On farm irrigation equipment.

Humanitarian Missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints SVG, Opreth Sutherland stated that their donation is based on the principles established in Mark Chapter 12, verses 30 -31. He expressed his admiration for the tenacity and determination shown by the agricultural sector despite the effects of the 2021 La Soufriere Volcano eruption.

• Training for vegetable and food production, artificial insemination and sustainable fishing practices.

• Nitrogen generators for Livestock farmers (meat, poultry and eggs).

• Pedigree stock for Livestock Breeding.

The event concluded with fertilizer being distributed to farmers.

BNTF sign Contracts to commence Footpath and Road Construction

The Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) has had a significantly positive impact on the lives of the poor and vulnerable, particularly in rural communities, via the implementation and support of several projects and programmes. The BNTF in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and local construction companies signed contracts to commence the construction of roads and footpaths.

Minutemade Construction: Construction of footpaths at Mesopotamia (Glenside), Park Hill (Dondo Hole) and Barrouallie (Pierre Hughes). (Friday 24th February, 2023)

Fisherfolk receive a technological boost in capacity

The Government of SVG has consistently provided support of various forms to the Fisherfolk of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. On Friday 3rd March 2023, approximately 80 fisherfolk received VHF Marine Radios aimed at promoting safety at sea. This donation forms part of a project implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

The Handing Over Ceremony was held at the Fisheries Conference Room where remarks were given by Chief Fisheries Officer, Jennifer Cruickshank-Howard and Minister of Agriculture, Hon Saboto Caesar.

Chief Fisheries Officer, Jennifer Cruickshank Howard stressed the need for fisherfolk to participate in the training sessions to become proficient in the use of the radios. She encouraged the gathering to inspire other Fishers to become involved as they too can benefit from such an initiative.

Minister of Agriculture, Hon Saboto Caesar informed the gathering that the Government has worked diligently to advance the cause for the expansion of the Fisheries Sector which has led to a significant increase. He also mentioned that technological innovation is a significant component in their efforts to attract youth to the sector.

Bally

(Wednesday 29th March 2023)

These projects are part of the 10th cycle of the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), which is dedicated to funding initiatives that enhance access to education and improve living conditions in low-income and vulnerable communities.

The BNTF – SVG is jointly funded by the CDB and the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This grant programme seeks to pursue and contribute to the reduction of poverty in poor, rural and vulnerable communities.