The Ujima Natural Farmers Market in St. Andrew is emerging as a vibrant hub for fresh, locally-sourced produce, offering an impressive array of colorful and often uncommon vegetables. A recent weekend visit by Observer Online revealed a bustling marketplace where shoppers enthusiastically filled their bags with items such as Swiss chard, dinosaur kale, and Jamaican broccoli.
Shoppers expressed strong preferences for supporting local agriculture. One customer emphasized the importance of buying Jamaican produce, stating, ‘I like to eat Jamaican first. I do my best not to buy imported food—that’s the main reason why I am here.’ This sentiment highlights a growing consumer trend toward prioritizing locally grown, organic food sources.
The market’s pricing structure remains accessible, with items like escallion and tomato priced at $300 per pound, dinosaur kale at $400 per bunch, and celery at $600 per pound. Beyond shopping, the market experience was enhanced by a live culinary demonstration from Executive Chef Brian Lumley, who prepared a stir-fry noodle dish. Chef Lumley noted that Ujima ranks among his favorite markets specifically because of its commitment to being fully organic.
The market’s success underscores a broader movement toward sustainable agriculture and community-supported food systems, offering both nutritional benefits and economic support for local farmers.