The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry has pledged its support to a local private venture that has already put boots on the ground, towards the revitalization of 100 acres of arable lands in St. George.
The project, in Good Hope, is being undertaken by the Grenada Real Estate Cooperation and aims to promote increased access to land for improved food and nutrition security. Leroy Neckles, Representative of the Board explained that the Cooperation is looking forward to working with serious persons.
“What we are interested in is getting serious people to farm and can seriously develop the area.”
The board has put in place several critical services to alleviate the challenges that farmers may face, according to Neckles.
“We recognize challenges that farmers may encounter – equipment, water, roads etc.; so, my board has decided to work with Government since we are referring to an initiative that can boost food security. We have already purchased a new tractor, so we can provide plowing services for the farmers; we have an excavator to clear the roads and lands for farmers. There is no excuse now for farmers, relating to access of services.”
Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Peter David, who visited the site on recently, commended Neckles on the undertaking that has the potential to be a driving force for the involvement of youth in agriculture, food security and contributing to sustainable land management.
He said, “This is a clear example of the potential for public-private partnership. Here is a private sector representative interested in this project and here is our Ministry interested in increasing production, that is why we are so committed to this project. We are urging all owners of land to do the same thing, as the Ministry is here to work with you. The technical team also comprised of Chief Agricultural Officer, Trevor Thompson, Senior Agricultural Officer, Lauren St. Louis and Gregroy Delsol.
