Windward Islands Banana Growers Association (WINBAN)

Established in 1958, the Windward Islands Banana Growers Association (WINBAN) was a transformative organization that played a vital role in shaping the agricultural economies of the Windward Islands, including Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada. Dominica, known for its fertile volcanic soils, contributed significantly to WINBAN’s success, benefiting from organized export systems and agricultural advancements.

The Formation and Mission of WINBAN

WINBAN was created to unify individual banana growers’ associations across the Windward Islands, including the Dominica Banana Marketing Corporation (DBMC). The association’s primary mission was to manage the marketing and export of bananas, particularly to the UK, under preferential trade agreements. Dominica’s active participation within WINBAN enabled local farmers to access international markets, fostering economic stability in rural communities.

By consolidating resources, WINBAN negotiated terms with importers like the Geest Line, improving profitability and reducing inefficiencies. This collective model allowed Dominica’s farmers, traditionally dependent on bananas as their primary cash crop, to transition into a more structured and resilient industry.

Dominica’s Role in the WINBAN Ecosystem

Dominica, often called the “breadbasket” of the Windward Islands, was a key player within WINBAN due to its favourable agricultural conditions. At its peak in the 1980s, Dominica exported tens of thousands of bananas annually. Key contributors included prominent agricultural leaders and policymakers like Roosevelt Douglas, who advocated for smallholder farmers and promoted agricultural reforms. Dominica’s banana exports accounted for a significant share of its GDP, creating employment for thousands of rural families.

WINBAN’s operational strategies supported infrastructure developments tied to Dominica’s banana industry, such as the construction of roads in rural farming areas and upgrades to the Deep Water Harbour in Fond Cole. Dominica also became a hub for research initiatives, with WINBAN funding projects to combat pests like the banana weevil and diseases such as Black Sigatoka, which threatened banana production.

Economic and Social Impact in Dominica

WINBAN’s influence in Dominica extended beyond the agricultural sector. By stabilizing incomes, the association improved farming communities’ access to education, healthcare, and social services. The export revenue funded rural development projects, including establishing cooperatives like the Dominica Banana Growers Association (DBGA), which provided farmers with technical training and financial support.

However, the decline of preferential trade agreements in the 1990s and increased global competition severely impacted the banana industry. Despite these challenges, WINBAN’s legacy persisted, laying the groundwork for initiatives like the Fair Trade Banana Program, which emphasized ethical farming practices and premium pricing for smallholder farmers.

Transition and Legacy

In 1994, WINBAN transitioned into Winfresh, a private company designed to continue the marketing and distribution of Windward Islands bananas. While the organizational structure changed, Dominica remained a key contributor to the industry, albeit on a smaller scale. Partnerships with international bodies like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and regional agencies like the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) helped Dominica adapt to new market demands.

The Dominica government also prioritized diversification efforts, encouraging farmers to supplement banana production with other crops and engage in agro-tourism. Despite the challenges, WINBAN’s initial efforts ensured that Dominica’s agricultural sector remained a cornerstone of its economy.

Legacy of WINBAN in Dominica

WINBAN provided a structured export platform; the association enabled thousands of local farmers to thrive during the banana industry’s golden era. The focus on research, fair trade, and cooperative models remains a testament to WINBAN’s enduring impact. Today, the lessons learned from this period continue to shape Dominica’s agricultural strategies and rural development programs.