Grenada Continues Stepping Up Food Production 

It is well known that St. Vincent and the Grenadines took a massive hit on April 9, 2021, with the eruption of La Soufriere. Unfortunately, the volcanic activity has created a significant food shortage in the southern Caribbean. Therefore, Grenada increased its food production, including both livestock and crops. This effort aids both Grenada and the other islands. 

According to the Minister for Agriculture, Lands, and Forestry in Grenada- Peter David, “Food security is an important issue for us, and St. Vincent has been, in a sense, a major producer and supplier of many agricultural products, including livestock.”  

Trinidad, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Barbados continue to be affected by the lack of production from St. Vincent. 

The government continues researching to learn where the lack continues and where the most critical focus should be. They encourage government estates, private crop farmers, and livestock farmers to produce the food needed. 

St. Vincent and the Grenadines were once widely known for their production of root crops like tannia, sweet potatoes, and dasheen. As the market demand is evaluated, the government of Grenada invests in the various farms, both state and private. 

Without the government’s aid in food production, there will continue to be shortages all over the Caribbean islands. This is a time of crisis where all the islands can come together to help one another. 

Continuing the Help in Food Production 

On October 15, 2021, World Food Day was celebrated under a theme: “Our actions are our Future: Better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life.” 

The government approved a ten-year rehabilitation plan for the Grand Bras Estate. Minister for Fisheries Hon Yolande Bain-Horsford had this to say. “It is important to note that the nutritional status is a measure of the health condition of all individuals, as affected primarily by the intake of food and utilization of nutrients. The nutritional value of fish consumption is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization. I encourage all to consume healthy foods and include frequent exercise; this has proven to enhance lives and livelihoods.” 

We are happy to report that Grenada ensures food and nutritional security for all! 

CITED: thecaribbeannewsnow.com, cayman.loopnews.com, freshplaza.com, nowgrenada.com