Kitson Town Farmers receive Livestock and Protective Agriculture training and support
The 'Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agrifood Systems’ project has commenced its mission to bolster agricultural sustainability and rural prosperity in Kitson Town, St. Catherine, Jamaica. With a focus on empowering local farmers, the project is set to provide essential livestock and protective agriculture support to farming beneficiaries in the area.
Over 100 participants received Livestock and Protective Agriculture training on 30 April 2024. The session served as a platform to educate participants ranging from ages 16 to over 65 years on the impacts of climate change on Livestock, while also introducing various types of protective agriculture solutions slated for implementation under the project. Following the training, the project will undertake a series of comprehensive site assessments and validation activities to ensure the suitability of locations identified for 80 beneficiaries selected through the project.
“It’s been a tremendous movement thus far. To actually witness the project now coming into reality where selections are being made and the community is set to benefit it is as an absolutely wonderful feeling which fits nicely with our mantra from the Kitson Town CDC, Encouraging, Engaging and Empowering to build social value”, said President of the Kitson Town Community Development Committee, Devon Thompson.
The training initiative, along with other associated activities, forms an integral part of the project’s overarching strategy to enhance income generation and employment opportunities for the residents of Kitson Town. By equipping individuals with essential skills and knowledge, the project aims to cultivate a thriving agricultural ecosystem that sustains both livelihoods and the environment.
“I don't think there's anything better could have been happening to the community of Kitson Town, It is a widespread project and as we can see from the participants of those who have come to the sensitization and the training today…it means that it is gathering momentum in the community”, furthered Thompson who also referred to a sensitization session on the project’s activities, held last week on April 23.
The project, Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agrifood Systems is a United Nations South-South Cooperation project, funded by the Government of India and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) with Government of Jamaica partners.