A high-level Caribbean delegation, including Floyd Greene, Jamaica’s Minister of Agriculture, Michael James, Barbados’ Chief Agriculture Officer, and Shaun Baugh, CARICOM’s Agriculture Programme Manager, made a strong case for enhanced investment in food and agriculture at the FAO Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum 2025 in Rome, Italy, from October 14 to 16. The delegation engaged in strategic discussions with four major development banks—CAF, CDB, IDB, and the World Bank—focusing on irrigation and climate-resilient agriculture as key to boosting regional food production, reducing import reliance, and fostering sustainable employment. CAF, which has financed over $200 billion in regional projects, pledged technical assistance and pre-feasibility grants up to $1 million, while CDB reaffirmed its commitment to Jamaica, its largest shareholder, with concessional loans. The $19.2 million regional initiative aims to provide irrigation to 764 hectares, benefiting 635 families directly and 4,000 people indirectly, while aligning with CARICOM’s goal to cut food imports by 25% by 2030. Projects include irrigation ponds in Barbados, surface water networks in Jamaica, and infrastructure rehabilitation in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Minister Greene emphasized irrigation as the backbone of agricultural transformation, while James highlighted the necessity of local production. The IDB and World Bank offered diverse financing options, and private-sector partners showcased advanced irrigation technologies. This collaboration marks a significant step toward a more resilient and food-secure Caribbean.
C’bean pushes for scaled-up agricultural irrigation investment at investment forum
