Govt Allots $1M to Banana Farming; PS Says Agriculture Drives Economy

Barbara 9th August, 2022

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Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has revealed that a $1 million special fund will be created to boost banana production in Dominica. He stated that large-scale banana farmers will benefit from the fund based on their historical performance and growth index. He further said that bananas remain a major export earner for the country and that the government is inclined to help banana producers for the betterment of the economy.

Meanwhile, 19 agriculture students completed a six-week programme at the Dominica State College under the Mentorship/National Volunteer Programme organized by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC Caribbean). The project was funded by Global Affairs Canada as part of the Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean (SAC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and National Food Security.

Agriculture Minister Dr. Kyra Paul praised the agriculture graduands for their projects, adding that agriculture is the major pillar of economic and social growth for the nation. She said robust agricultural practice is necessary for food security and green economy, and encouraged Dominican youths to venture into farming with promise that the government is ready to assist their efforts.

Former DFP leader, Kent Vital, stated that citizens must engage in innovative agriculture as well as strategic marketing to access regional markets. He tasked Dominicans to embrace efficient and farming skills that will increase crop yields, combat crop pests, and ensure greater engagement with nature so that families can enjoy booster harvests, while the country enjoys enhanced exports.