In a significant community development initiative, Neil Rowe, Member of Parliament for St Michael North West, has successfully revitalized an agricultural project in Deacons that creates meaningful employment and training opportunities for local youth. The Northwest Alliance Agricultural Project, originally conceived in 2019, has overcome previous operational challenges and is now positioned for substantial expansion.
The project originated from Rowe’s desire to provide rehabilitation opportunities when a young community member returning from incarceration faced employment barriers. “When traditional employment options proved unavailable,” Rowe explained, “we explored alternative pathways and identified farming as a viable livelihood solution.”
Currently, the initiative maintains diverse agricultural operations including carrot, bean, beetroot, lettuce, and okra cultivation, complemented by a growing flock of 20 Black Belly sheep. Project participant Vincent Edwards confirmed the commercial viability: “Anything we plant here finds ready market demand.”
Initial implementation faced significant infrastructure challenges, particularly regarding reliable water access. Rowe navigated complex administrative processes to secure permanent water solutions, acknowledging that “while bureaucratic hurdles presented obstacles, we successfully overcame them through persistent advocacy.”
The MP recently provided specialized farming tools to participants, emphasizing their symbolic and practical importance: “These resources will empower our young farmers to maximize their agricultural yield and build sustainable livelihoods.”
Future expansion plans include operational diversification into animal husbandry with planned investments in chicken and rabbit rearing. Security enhancements through additional fencing and land allocation will support this growth. Rowe envisions broadening participation across the constituency, stating: “Farming represents a legitimate livelihood pathway, and anyone committed to this work can achieve economic stability.”
Edwards reflected on the transformation of previously neglected land: “This area was once overgrown jungle requiring purposeful intervention. With parliamentary support, we’ve created productive agricultural space that benefits both participants and the broader community.”