The community of Pares has witnessed a significant boost in food production and supply-chain opportunities with the launch of a dynamic food security project.
Made possible through the ongoing collaboration between the Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development (GARD) Centre and the Sandals Foundation, this initiative aims to ensure sustainable access to wholesome foods for the community.
On Wednesday, May 31, Sandals Foundation ambassadors, led by the General Manager at Sandals Grande Antigua, joined residents, students, and members of the Pares Community Group at the entrance of the Pares community to inaugurate this holistic farming and capacity-building project.
Recognizing the importance of food security, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, June Jackson, Executive Director at GARD Center, emphasized the growing interest among communities in backyard gardens and climate-friendly agriculture.
The project will provide targeted training, technical assistance, and support to increase farmer production, promote long-term planning to address food and agricultural challenges, and encourage local food purchases through roadside stalls, community restaurants, and small supermarkets.
Matthew Cornall, General Manager at Sandals Grande Antigua, praised the collaborative efforts of the community and GARD in bringing the project to life.
He emphasized the significance of reliable food production for families, particularly considering the vulnerability of import-dependent economies and the adverse impact of climate change on traditional farming practices.
Cornall further explained that the project takes a comprehensive approach to food production by building capacity in the use of climate-smart technology, reviving school gardens, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating a resilient food supply system through the development of value-added products.
In addition to providing technical climate-smart farming skills to around 15 farmers in the community, the project will assist 10 backyard gardeners in improving their home gardens by implementing better layout plans, incorporating compost units, and diversifying their selection of vegetables and herbs.
Endorsed by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Social Transformation, the project will also focus on developing leadership and advocacy skills within the community group.
This will enable them to identify challenges affecting food security and bring about positive change.
Furthermore, approximately 15 individuals will receive training in agro-processing techniques, with a special emphasis on blanching, freezing, and bottling, to expand the range of output produced.
Local farmer Edmeade Samuel, a 70-year-old resident of the Pares community, expressed pride in the project’s potential benefits for the future of agriculture.
He highlighted the positive impact on students at both primary and secondary school levels, who will benefit from increased focus on entrepreneurial farming.
Samuel believes the project will foster creativity, innovation, and growth among the community’s young people.
Lorenzo Looby, President of the Pares Community Group, shared his excitement about the project and its anticipated impact on the community.
He emphasized the valuable exposure that farmers and students will gain from learning new and innovative farming techniques, as well as food production and preservation practices.
Looby expressed gratitude to the Sandals Foundation for their belief in and investment in the project.
Food security is a critical concern worldwide, particularly for vulnerable Caribbean islands.
The Sandals Foundation remains committed to building the capacity of local communities, farmers, students, and schools. By equipping them with the necessary skills and tools, the foundation aims to ensure the sustainable presence of fresh foods for generations to come.
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