By Tynia Brown

Journal Staff Writer 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources launched its largest-ever food grant program, aiming to bolster food production and reduce the country’s dependence on food imports. The $1.5 million initiative will support farmers, fishers, and cooperatives across The Bahamas, with a focus on sustainable practices that align with the Davis Administration’s commitment to achieving food security.

Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources, Jomo Campbell highlighted that the grant would assist both farmers and fishers using climate-smart technologies. He noted that the recipients, hailing from islands such as New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Andros, Eleuthera, and Exuma, reflect the widespread support among Bahamians for sustainable food production.

“This grant program is not just about financial assistance, but it is about fostering innovation and sustainability,” said Minister Campbell. “We are investing in practices that will enhance productivity, reduce food costs, and help build a more resilient food system for the future.”

The Ministry identified 29 farmers and 33 fishers for the grant, which is expected to drive significant growth in local agriculture and fishing. The program is expected to lead to a 20-30% increase in crops and livestock production, and a 15-25% boost in the fisheries sector. Specifically, the production of peanuts and coconuts is expected to grow by 15-25%, resulting in profitability growth for vendors in these sectors.

Neil Campbell, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources provided insights into the Ministry’s Coconut 360 initiative, emphasizing its comprehensive approach to utilizing every part of the coconut. “The goal is to create a platform for coconut vendors to operate more efficiently while promoting sustainability. Additionally, through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), we’ll have someone come each week to remove the coconut husks and recycle them, supporting eco-friendly practices.”

 He explained, “we’ve had some public meetings already with the vendors. We’ve invited environmental health, the police, and other key stakeholders, along with the vendors themselves, to discuss how we can organize their spaces. We’re looking at giving them an opportunity to rent buildings, similar to what we do for Arawak Cay and Porter’s Cay, charging by square footage.”

He continued, “everything is in place the funding has already been approved, and we just need final approval for the drawings and related plans. Once we get the green light, we expect to rollout the project in January, with the Minister’s permission.” 

Campbell highlighted the initiative’s name, “Coconut 360,” symbolizing the holistic use of coconuts in the project. This initiative aims to boost the coconut industry, enhance local vendor operations, and foster sustainable recycling practices.

The $1.5 million grant’s purpose is also to provide financial relief and opportunities for those committed to sustainable practices, with the overarching goal of creating a more self-sufficient food system in The Bahamas. Minister Campbell emphasized the role of community involvement, calling on awardees and participants to lead by example and show that sustainability can go together with profitability.

In closing, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a food system that nourishes both the people and the environment. “Together, we can cultivate change, make waves, and ensure that every Bahamian has access to sustainable, healthy food,” said Minister Campbell.

As the grant program unfolds, the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources continues to prioritize sustainable solutions for the country’s food security, laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient agricultural and fishing sector.