FAO Jamaica

FAO and JACRA train over 170 farmers in sustainable ginger production

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As Jamaica's ginger sector continues to address challenges associated with disease and access to clean planting material, more than 170 farmers, nursery operators, researchers and plant protection specialists have been trained in sustainable production and seed propagation techniques through a series of workshops led by the Food and Agriculture Organization [...]

FAO and Government engage stakeholders to strengthen Jamaica's 10-Year National Agricultural Development Plan

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Approximately 100 agricultural stakeholders gathered on Thursday at the ROK Hotel in downtown Kingston for the National Agricultural Development Plan (NADP) Validation Workshop to provide key recommendations and technical inputs for Jamaica’s proposed 10-year strategy to modernize and strengthen the agriculture and fisheries sector.

FAO equips nearly 800 students with agriculture skills through school garden training in Belize

Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in collaboration with the Government of Belize has equipped nearly 800 students with practical agricultural knowledge and hands-on gardening skills through a nationwide school garden training initiative aimed at strengthening sustainable agrifood systems and improving access to nutritious locally grown foods.

A [...]

FAO and Government of Jamaica hand over fertilizer support to farmers for Hurricane Recovery

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) handed over fertilizer support to farmers through the Government of Jamaica at a ceremony held on April 15 at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) Trelawny Parish Office, as part of ongoing efforts to restore agricultural production following the impacts [...]

Green Climate Fund approves $50 million for FAO-supported adaptation project in Jamaica

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) has approved a $50 million project, supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), to enhance the climate resilience of vulnerable smallholders in Jamaica.

The project focuses on areas where climate risks and food security challenges are most severe due to [...]

FAO and Partners Close Improving Rural Livelihoods Project in Kitson Town with Handover of Climate-Resilient Agricultural Systems

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agrifood Systems (IRL) project has concluded leaving behind a strengthened farming community equipped with the skills, resources and infrastructure to sustain and expand agricultural production. The closure and handover ceremony was held on March 25, at St. Catherine High School, marking a major milestone [...]

FAO and Government of Jamaica Expands Rural Skills Base Under South–South Cooperation Initiative

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Through a coordinated programme for skills development, just over 200 participants have completed a series of capacity building trainings designed to improve productivity, entrepreneurship and climate-resilience under the Improving Rural Livelihoods Through Resilient Agrifood Systems Project, implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica. The project milestone was recognized through a training completion ceremony held [...]

FAO and Government of Jamaica start process for 10-year agriculture development plan

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Stakeholders from across government, development partners, academia and the agrifood sector convened February 10-11 for a two-day Visioning Workshop aimed at shaping Jamaica’s ten-year National Agriculture Development Plan, a strategic response to growing climate risks and long-standing structural challenges facing the sector.

The workshop held at the Bureau of Standards Jamaica, was supported by the Food and [...]

FAO Representative Advances Collaboration Across Key Sectors During Belize Mission

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representative for Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize, Dr. Ana Touza, conducted a high-level mission to Belize from February 9–13, 2026, engaging with government counterparts, national partners and community actors to deepen collaboration and advance shared priorities. Dr Touza was accompanied on the mission by Alicia [...]

FAO strengthens partnerships and implementation capacity through OPIM workshop in Jamaica

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

FAO has convened an Operational Partners Implementation Modality (OPIM) workshop in Kingston, Jamaica, bringing together FAO teams from Jamaica, Belize, as well as colleagues from FAO sub-regional and regional offices, alongside national partners including the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).

FAO and Government of The Bahamas Strengthen Forest Monitoring and Climate Finance Capacity Through National Workshops

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Forestry Unit of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (The Bahamas) supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), hosted two workshops on National Forest and Climate Strategy and on the Concept Note to the Green Climate Fund (GCF), respectively from 24–25 November 2025, [...]

FAO Showcases Innovative Mesh Grid Tool to Strengthen Rural Energy Resilience in Jamaica and Beyond

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through its Jamaica Country Office, hosted a webinar on Mesh Grid Systems for Innovative Rural Energy Communities (MIREC). The virtual event held on 15 December 2025, brought together over 40 energy experts, policymakers, development practitioners and stakeholders to explore new [...]

Jamaica Champions Caribbean Irrigation and Investment Priorities at FAO World Food Forum

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaica underscored its leadership in advancing climate-resilient agriculture and regional food security during the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum 2025, a flagship event of the World Food Forum (WFF) held at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Headquarters in Rome.

FAO distributes 5,000 hot pepper plants to 33 Schools Across Jamaica

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

More than 5,000 Scotch Bonnet pepper seedlings found new homes in 33 schools across Jamaica as part of a hands-on activity under the project “Improving the Phytosanitary, Food Safety and Market Access Opportunities along the Hot Pepper Value Chain.” Though the seedlings were planted before the new school year, the initiative continues [...]

FAO and Chef Sean Kuylen Train Over 100 School Cooks under the National Healthy Start Feeding Program

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

A total of 139 school cooks from across Belize sharpened their culinary skills this August under the guidance of renowned Belizean Chef Sean Kuylen. The training sessions were organized through the FAO project “Increasing accessibility and acceptance of underutilized nutritious locally grown products in the national school feeding programs of [...]

FAO Boosts Coconut Sector Resilience in Belize through Soil Training

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative and Soil Doctors Program, partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE) to conduct a Soil Sampling Training in Central Farm, Belize. The training held on August 30, [...]

FAO Launches National Soil Doctor Training Programme in Belize

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with Belize’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE), has officially launched the Soil Doctor Training Programme in Belize. This initiative, delivered under FAO’s Global Soil Partnership, is designed to build national capacity for sustainable soil management [...]

School Food and Nutrition Policy supported by FAO, approved in Belize

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Belize has taken a historic step toward improving the health of its children and youth. The Cabinet has officially approved the country’s first School Food and Nutrition Policy, setting a clear roadmap for healthier and more sustainable school environments nationwide.

The achievement falls under the National Healthy Start School Feeding Programme [...]

FAO launches Platform for the Empowerment of Rural Women in Latin America and the Caribbean

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The new digital tool aims to support governments, organizations, and communities in developing inclusive public policies and concrete actions that promote leadership, rights, and the comprehensive empowerment of rural, indigenous, Afro-descendant, and young women in the region.

FAO Kicks Off National Strategy for Ginger Under FAO-Led OCOP Initiative in Jamaica

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaica has launched the FAO-led One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative to revitalize its ginger industry, focusing on disease management, clean planting material, and value chain coordination to boost production and market potential.

FAO advances rural livelihoods from poultry, goat skills to agripreneurship

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Building on the success of earlier poultry training, the Improving Rural Livelihoods Through Resilient Agri-food Systems Project continues to strengthen skills and [...]

FAO trains stakeholders to boost crop yields with digital sensor technology

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

FAO and Jamaica’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries & Mining trained farmers, technicians, and officials in the use of digital sensors to enhance crop productivity, optimize irrigation, and strengthen data-driven decision-making in real time.

FAO Supports Belize's Efforts to Strengthen Coastal and Blue Economy Resilience

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) joined national partners in Belize for the 3rd Blue Economy Climate Resilience Forum

Women and Youth in Kitson Town Graduate from FAO Poultry Training

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly 50 poultry farmers predominantly women and youth graduated from a comprehensive training programme in small livestock production under the Improving Rural Livelihoods Through Resilient Agri-food Systems project. A collaboration between the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) and Kitson Town Community Development [...]

Women and Youth in Kitson Town Graduate from FAO Poultry Training

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Supports Jamaica's Hot Pepper Sector with New Equipment to Boost Food Safety and Exports

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaica’s hot pepper industry is getting a major boost through the distribution of cutting-edge pest surveillance and monitoring equipment to key stakeholders in the value chain. The equipment handover ceremony, held at the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ), is a significant milestone under the ongoing project “Improving Phytosanitary, Food Safety [...]

FAO and NFA Strengthen Training for Jamaica's Fisheries Sector

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), hosted a two-day training workshop from April

The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) convened a Community-Based [...]

Stakeholders Validate Project to Strengthen Climate Resilience of Small Farmers in Central Jamaica

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Over 50 stakeholders from government, civil society, academia and farming communities gathered recently for the validation workshop of the ‘ADAPT Jamaica: Enhancing Climate Change Resilience of Vulnerable Smallholders in Central Jamaica’ project, an initiative targeting small farmers across six central parishes. The workshop was held on March 27 at the [...]

Government of Jamaica and United Nations Launch Digital Transformation Initiative

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, in collaboration with the United Nations, launched the ‘Empowering Jamaica’s Future: SDG Joint Programme on Digital Transformation for Education’ project today at Cumberland High School in Portmore, St. Catherine. This three-year initiative aims to help modernise the Jamaican education system through digital [...]

Caribbean Blue Economy Stakeholders to Convene in Jamaica for BE-CLME+ Fisheries Project Meetings

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Regional stakeholders will gather in Kingston, Jamaica, this week from February 24-27, for the Third Meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and Regional Steering Committee (RSC) of the BE-CLME+ Project. The discussions will focus on enhancing marine spatial planning, marine protected area (MPA) management and [...]

Local Partners to provide Technical and Entrepreneurship Support for Rural Livelihoods project

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agrifood Systems project is taking further steps in [...]

FAO, Canada and Jamaica Launch Gender-Responsive Climate-Smart Agriculture Project

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Government of Canada launched the Gender-responsive Climate-smart Agriculture and Food Systems in the Caribbean (GCAF) project on Thursday January 23, 2025. The launch and national inception workshop officially introduced Jamaica’s role in the regional initiative aimed [...]

FAO and Stakeholders Explore Priorities for Gender-Responsive Agriculture in Jamaica

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of Canada are advancing efforts to transform agricultural value chains in Jamaica through the ‘Gender-responsive Climate-smart Agriculture and Food Systems in the Caribbean’ (GCAF) project. From December 9 to 13, 2024, the project facilitated key technical sessions [...]

Plant Breeding Training Boosts Seed Quality and Hot Pepper Sector Growth

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) recently concluded a pivotal three-day plant breeding for hot pepper production under its Improving Phytosanitary, Food Safety and Market Access Opportunities along the Hot Pepper Value Chain Project between October 30 – November 1,2024. This session marks a significant development [...]

Over 100 Stakeholders Participate in Workshop on Newcastle Disease Immunization in Southern Belize

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Organized by FAO and Belize’s Ministry of Agriculture, the training underscored critical immunization methods, biosecurity, and livelihood support, focusing on rural and Indigenous producers. This initiative forms part of Belize’s agricultural resilience strategy, aligning with the national policy to enhance agricultural [...]

Cocoa Farmers Equipped to Combat Pest and Diseases following FO4ACP training

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

In an effort to strengthen the resilience of local cocoa farmers, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Procasur Corporation supported the Jamaica Cocoa Farmers’ Association in organizing a comprehensive pest control, climate resilience training programme in Jamaica.

FAO and NFA Train Extension Officers to develop Fisheries Field School curriculum

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is taking critical steps to modernize Jamaica's fisheries and aquaculture sector through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Extension Strategy (N-FAS). This initiative focuses on strengthening NFA’s extension services to ensure that fishers and aquaculture farmers can [...]

Female Entrepreneurs Receive Gender Grants from FAO and The Bahamas Development Bank

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Sapodilla Estate was the elegant setting for an inspiring evening where 25 women-led businesses were awarded grants ranging from $2,000 to $7,500, as part of the United Nations SDG Building Back Equal Through Innovative Gender Equitable Finance Program on October 2, 2024. The event, held in collaboration with the [...]

Belize Launches Project to Strengthen Resilience of Coastal and Fisheries Sector

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Ministry of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management (MBEDRM), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has rolled out a new initiative designed to bolster the resilience of Belize's coastal zones and fisheries sector. The project, titled "Community Engagement of the Coastal Zone [...]

FAO and BDB Further Women's Entrepreneurship in The Bahamas

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) have laid the groundwork for gender equality initiatives promoting financial inclusion and empowerment in the region. FAO and BDB implemented the Joint SDG Fund Programme on Building Back Equal through Innovative Financing for Gender [...]

FAO and JAS Collaborate on Feed Assessment Survey for Livestock Sustainability

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is continuing its work to improve the sustainability of Jamaica's livestock sector through the project "Assessment of Locally Produced Livestock Feed Ingredients to Strengthen the Sector’s Sustainability." A key component of this project is the development of a feed formulation tool, [...]

Jamaican Farmers Embrace New Digital Services Platform from FAO

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) through the Territorial Digital Ecosystem pilot project, has introduced a Digital Services Platform (DSP) to farmers in Jamaica. As part of FAO’s 1000 Digital Villages Initiative, the project aims to advance the digitalization of agricultural services, empowering rural communities with [...]

Alternative Livestock Feed Project to prioritize locally sourced ingredients

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Alternative feed solutions are being sourced to drive sustainability in the livestock sector. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is implementing the project, 'Assessment of locally produced livestock feed ingredients to strengthen the sector’s sustainability'. This initiative aims to reduce dependency on imported feeds by promoting [...]

Hot Pepper Farmers Mean Business!

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Hot Pepper farmers can now say hello to new business opportunities following the conclusion of the Agricultural and Insurance Product Capacity Training series. Coordinated by the 'Improving the Improving Phytosanitary, Food Safety, and Market Access Opportunities Along the Hot Pepper Value Chain in Jamaica' the sessions took place over the [...]

FAO and Belize Government Collaborate to Boost Family Farming and Small-Scale Agriculture

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE), convened a two-day event titled “Strengthening Family Farming and Small-Scale Agriculture in Belize.” The event was held at the Ministry of Agriculture Conference Room in Showgrounds, Belmopan between [...]

FAO and Partners Launch Biodiversity Conservation Project in Belize's Maya Golden Landscape

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), with support from the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) and the Government of Belize, officially launched a transformative four-year project aimed at mainstreaming biodiversity in the Maya Golden Landscape (MGL) of Toledo, Belize. The launch event took place at Kiki Witz [...]

FAO supports Caribbean governments after the impact of Hurricane Beryl

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), as part of the United Nations Emergency Technical Teams (UNETT), is deployed in the areas affected by Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean to advance rapid needs assessment and preparation of proposals, under the leadership of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management [...]

National Seed Certification to Boost Agricultural Productivity and Export Potential

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of Jamaica are developing a national seed certification system to increase the supply and access to high-quality seeds, boosting agricultural productivity. The Improving Phytosanitary, Food Safety, and Market Access Opportunities Along the Hot Pepper Value Chain project [...]

Kitson Town farmers and stakeholders gain skills in Protective Agriculture

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Through the Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agrifood Systems Project, 22 Kitson Town farmers along with key stakeholders benefitted from an field training on Protective Agriculture Structures at Adams Valley, Manchester on June 18, 2024.

The training cohort also included two lecturers from the College of Agriculture, Science and Education and [...]

Livelihood assessment lay foundation for resilient agriculture practices in Kitson Town

Fri, 31 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The 'Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agrifood Systems' project is making significant strides in Kitson Town, St. Catherine, by providing essential livestock and protective agriculture support to 80 farming beneficiaries. As part of the initiative, a series of comprehensive site assessments and validation activities were conducted to confirm the suitability [...]

FAO and Bahamas Ministry of Agriculture Host Inception Workshop for Drone Mapping and Geospatial Analysis Training Program

Fri, 10 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT

– The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources hosted an inception workshop for a Drone Mapping, Monitoring and Geospatial Analysis Training programme on Tuesday April 30,2024. FAO under its technical cooperation programme for disaster risk management, is [...]

Kitson Town Farmers receive Livestock and Protective Agriculture training and support

Thu, 09 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT

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 [...]

Agriculture students at CASE enhance Integrated Pest Management skills

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The “Improving the Phytosanitary, Food Safety and Market Access Opportunities along the Hot Pepper Value Chain” project is expanding its reach by targeting tertiary-level agriculture students in Jamaica. The project conducted a training in 'Pest Monitoring & Surveillance for Hot Pepper Production' with final-year students pursuing Bachelor of Technology in [...]

Hot Pepper Value Chain Project brings the heat to Fresh Produce Exporters' Forum

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining for the annual Fresh Produce Exporter Forum. The two-part event, held in Kingston and Montego Bay respectively was organized by the Ministry’s Plant Quarantine and Produce Inspection Branch. Both forums brought [...]

Belize and Jamaica's coconut and ginger value chains to benefit from new FAO global project

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Key stakeholders, leading technical experts OCOP Focal Points and FAO staff from 11 project countries convened virtually to launch a new project aimed at expanding the FAO One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) Initiative. The global program will support the development of a value chain analysis and a 3 year [...]

Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean established new FAO priorities for the region to transform agrifood systems to ensure food security

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Representatives of the thirty-three member states attended the 38th FAO Regional Conference held in Guyana to discuss how to reduce hunger and inequality in the world's largest agrifood exporting region.

Hot Pepper Value Chain Project provides pest surveillance training for farmers to meet international standards

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Improving the Phytosanitary Food Safety and Market Access Opportunities along the Hot Pepper Value Chain project is training farmers, input suppliers, nursery operators in pest surveillance to reduce the prevalence of pests as well as strengthen prevention and control measures. These actions further the intent of the project to [...]

Improving Rural Livelihoods Project boost community engagement in Kitson Town

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agri-food Systems project, funded by the India UN Development Partnership Fund and implemented by FAO, has been making significant strides in fostering sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing community engagement within Kitson Town in St. Catherine Jamaica. Since the launch, the project has conducted several [...]

FAO seeks to expand digital literacy in family farming in The Bahamas

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Representation of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in The Bahamas, is implementing a rural digitalization project that will take advantage of connectivity and digital solutions to improve access to markets and have more efficient production processes.

This project is developed within the framework of the [...]

FAO boosts pest management for Jamaican hot pepper sub-sector

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica through the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) at the World Trade Organization (WTO), advance pest management within the hot pepper value chain.

As part of the "Improving the Phytosanitary, Food Safety & Market [...]

Kitson Town community embraces entrepreneurship and innovative agriculture in new livelihood project

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in partnership with the United Nations South-South Cooperation and the Governments of India and Jamaica, has unveiled the 'Improving Rural Livelihoods through Resilient Agrifood Systems' project, ushering in a transformative phase for sustainable agriculture and rural development in the community of Kitson Town, St. [...]

FAO and the Caribbean deepen cooperation for the transformation of agrifood systems to combat hunger and poverty

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mario Lubetkin, participated in a high-level meeting of Ministers of Agriculture of Caribbean countries in Kingston, Jamaica, with the goal of deepening cooperation to address common challenges [...]

FAO and the Government of Bahamas develop national strategy to protect and preserve forests

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Forestry Unit within the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources is taking steps to protect The Bahamas’ forest cover and sustainable management of forests.

This initiative stems from an inception workshop held on August 24, which is [...]

GCF Project wins Caribbean Media Award for Best Climate Change News Item (Television)

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) readiness project entitled, “Enhancing adaptation planning and increasing climate resilience in the coastal zone and fisheries sector of Belize” won the Caribbean Broadcast Union (CBU) Caribbean Media Award for Best Climate Change News Item (Television). The news item was among the 355 submissions received which [...]

FAO and Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise host Validation Workshop for National Agriculture and Food Policy

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Mіnіѕtrу оf Аgrісulturе, Fооd Ѕесurіtу аnd Еntеrрrіѕе іn соllаbоrаtіоn wіth thе Fооd аnd Аgrісulturе Оrgаnіzаtіоn оf thе Unіtеd Nаtіоnѕ hеld a validation wоrkѕhор fоr thе drаft Nаtіоnаl Аgrісulturе аnd Fооd Роlісу in August 4 at Kiki Witz Resort in Belmopan, Belize.

The National Agriculture and Food Policy will support the government [...]

FAO seeks to implement digital solutions in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The 1000 Digital Villages initiative seeks to promote the development of programmes focused on increasing and improving the use of digital tools in rural areas of Latin Americas and the Caribbean

Coastal Zone and Fisheries Sector Conduct Inclusive Consultations for National Adaption Plan

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Consultations for the development of a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for the Coastal Zone Areas of Belize and Belize Fisheries Sector have commenced, the first on June 20, 2023, in Dangriga Town and other sessions earmarked for June 22-23, 2023, in Belize City.

The objective is to prepare a [...]

FAO and Agriculture Ministry combine efforts to tackle Food Loss and Waste in Jamaica

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries & Mining conducted a technical workshop to coordinate national efforts and resources to manage food loss and waste (FLW) on June 7, 2023.

The workshop engaged stakeholders within the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries & [...]

Resilient School Feeding Project Celebrates Successful Handing Over Ceremony in Belize

Mon, 29 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Belize Resilient School Feeding Project, a subproject of the Mexico-CARICOM-FAO initiative "Cooperation for Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change in the Caribbean,” was celebrated at a project Handing Over Ceremony. The event was held at one of the six project schools, San Joaquin RC Primary school in Corozal district.
[...]

FAO brings farmers' organizations together in Jamaica to strengthen their capacities and productivity

Fri, 26 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Between 22 and 24 May, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Jamaica Network of Rural Women Producers (JNRWP) conducted a series of workshops to train farming networks as part of the FO4ACP Program.

Climate Data Training to Improve Blue Economy Ecosystems and Forecast Future Climate Impacts

Tue, 02 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The increasing impacts of climate change and threats to coastal communities and fisheries sector, challenge the role of local and national governments as decision makers.

Climate data is essential to increase resilience to extreme weather events and strengthening the planning processes of these institutions.

The Food and Agriculture Organization [...]

FAO supports Climate Database Management System training in Belize

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Government of Belize through The Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation (MBECA), in collaboration with The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize and Belize’s National Designated Authority to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) is conducted a three-day [...]

Jamaica Set to Increase Earnings from Hot Pepper Value Chain

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaica is a significant producer of hot peppers, which is an important source of livelihood for many small-scale farmers. From an economic standpoint, hot pepper remains a reliable cash crop as both fresh and processed outputs provide income-earning and employment opportunities.

Culturally, the world fully acknowledges the magnetic effect of [...]

Sustainable Hydroponics Production to increase food security in Jamaica

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

FAO continues to partner with Jamaica to achieve sustainable agricultural and rural development through the technique of growing plants using nutrient rich water.

FAO Representative on Mission in Belize

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Dr Crispim Moreira, FAO Representative for Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize is visiting Belize from March 26 to April 1, 2023. Dr Moreira will be attending a United National Country Team Retreat from March 29 to 31, 2023 to be held San Ignacio Hotel in San Ignacio/Santa Elena Town, Belize.

During [...]

Regional school feeding project develops training for Caribbean countries in the Dominican Republic

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Ten countries participated in an international mission to strengthen the regional school feeding policy in Latin America and the Caribbean.

International Women's Day 2023 - Female farmers in Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize embrace equity through FAO projects

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

In order to build inclusive, sustainable, and resilient agrifood systems we must continue to centre women in rural communities and address challenges that hinder their prosperity. The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality.” Narrowing the digital gender gap by broadening [...]

Belize validates strategy to upgrade its soursop industry

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Stakeholders from the public and private sectors agree on major areas for upgrading the soursop value chain to increase production, and create opportunities to increase access to local, regional, and extra-regional markets.

Digital Village Initiative set to improve rural agriculture livelihoods in The Bahamas

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

In our current global environment, with threats to food security, rising food costs and other challenges, digital agriculture technologies are no longer regarded as novel approaches but needed approaches.

In The Bahamas, the FAO's Digital Village Initiative, will prioritize remote and rural communities, enabling farmers to tap into digital agriculture solutions. Innovation in [...]

FAO Representative promotes agribusiness and digital solutions during visit The Bahamas

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative in the Bahamas, Dr. Crispim Moreira is promoting business and digital agriculture solutions as part of the joint national priorities for agriculture. During his mission visit to the country between February 6-10, Dr. Moreira met with key government stakeholders and international partners to further [...]

National Meteorological Service of Belize receives weather equipment

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

On February 7, 2023, The Government of Belize through The Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation (MBECA), in collaboration with The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize and Belize’s National Designated Authority to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) [...]

FAO promotes women training in fisheries to face the economic crisis in the Caribbean

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Director-General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization visited the Bridgetown Fishing Complex, where he met with local fisherfolk's groups. He was accompanied by the Honorable Adrian Forde, Minister of Environment and National Beautification, Green and Blue Economy

Food safety experts in The Bahamas make significant advances in the national food control system

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Collaborative efforts between FAO and national institutions in the Bahamas plus three days of validating findings from a 12-month project have formed the roadmap for a strengthened food control system.

Fifty-seven farmers are now agribusiness entrepreneurs

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

After completing a seven-week Business Incubator Training, nearly 60 farmers in Kingston & St. Andrew now have improved capacity as agribusiness entrepreneurs. This, from a coordinated effort between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Junior Achievement Jamaica (JAJ). The end of the training programme culminated [...]

Op-Ed by FAO Representative Dr. Crispim Moreira | A Plan to Fight Hunger

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. Crispim Moreira, FAO Representative in Jamaica shares his perspective on how the continued collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and other local partners can boost food security.

New UN report warns that Latin America and the Caribbean has the highest cost of access to a healthy diet compared to the rest of the world

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Read more about the Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2022

Climate Data and Information Gap Assessment Consultation boosts coastal and fisheries resilience in Belize

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The Government of Belize through The Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation (MBECA), in collaboration with The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize and Belize’s National Designated Authority to the Green Climate Fund (GCF), hosted a Climate Data [...]

FAO partners with Green Climate Fund and the Government of Belize to host Blue Economy Climate Resilience Forum

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The Government of Belize through The Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation (MBECA) in collaboration with The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize and Belize’s National Designated Authority to the Green Climate Fund (GCF), hosted the 2022 Blue Economy [...]

August Edition: FAO Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize Newsletter

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Check out the August 2022 edition of the FAO Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize Newsletter for updates on the latest activities.

FAO in Latin America and the Caribbean welcomes a new FAO Regional Representative, Mario Lubetkin

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The communicator, of Uruguayan nationality, has served as Deputy Director General of the FAO since 2017.

Enter the World Food Day Poster Contest!

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

If you’re aged between 5 and 19, we want to hear from you! Use your imagination and create a poster showing a world where no one is left behind, and everyone has access to healthy and affordable food.

The Government of Jamaica is now poised to transform its food systems

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The formal handover of the Food Systems Profile to the Government of Jamaica through the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries marked another phase of Jamaica's transformation of its food systems. The profile is the result of an evidence-based and extensive assessment completed earlier this year.

The Jamaica Food Systems Profile: Catalysing [...]

In one year, 4 million people were thrust into hunger in Latin America and the Caribbean

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

New UN report says that 56.5 million people suffered hunger in 2021, while 268 million faced food insecurity.

1000 Digital Villages Initiative presented its progress in 14 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

FAO showed the main results of an initiative that seeks to promote the digitization of rural areas.

The Government of Belize receives an extensive profile to transform its food systems

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The Government of Belize through the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise is now poised to transform its food systems using an evidence-based and extensive assessment completed earlier this year.

The Belize Food Systems Profile: Catalysing the Sustainable and Inclusive Transformation of Food Systems, was the document formally handed over [...]

Ready, set, train!

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaican Farmer’s Organizations ready to learn new skills for boosting production and incomes of farmers

FO4ACP National Stakeholder Consultation

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Under the Farmers' Organizations for Africa, Caribbean and the Pacific Programme, six Farmers' Organizations and key stakeholders will meet for a National Stakeholder Consultation on Strengthening the Capacity of Farmers’ Organizations to Promote Sustainable Family Farming in JamaicaThe coastal zones and fisheries sector of Belize are the lifeblood for many of its people. They not only provide food and homes but are vital for the livelihoods of many fishers and communities; however, they remain threatened by climate change. Financing to better support the adaptation and resilience [...]

School cooks in Belize are giving students a healthy start

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

School cooks from seven schools in Belize are learning how to improve school menus and food safety for students.

Healthy school meals are pivotal in ensuring the nutrition of students and in helping them to stay focused, energized and ready to learn. For this reason, the Resilient School Feeding Program sub-project [...]

Plans afoot to magnify the opportunities for Farmers' Organizations in Jamaica

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Selected farmers’ organization set to receive support to increase production, access to markets and public services for their farmers.

Farmers’ Organizations play a pivotal role in improving the rights, opportunities, social and economic outcomes of small scale and family farmers under their guidance. Beyond food production, farmers’ organizations carry out education, [...]

The countries of Latin America and the Caribbean established three regional priorities for FAO

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Sustainable agri-food systems, prosperous and inclusive rural societies, and sustainable and resilient agriculture, are the priorities agreed upon by the FAO Regional Conference.

The countries of Latin America and the Caribbean established the regional priorities that will guide the work of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) [...]

The Bahamas assesses its food control systems to ensure food safety readiness

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The Bahamas is boosting its food safety readiness to ensure food security and public health.

The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to new businesses in food services and trade while at the same time raising concerns about food safety and our heavy reliance on agri-food imports. Having effective, efficient and sustainable [...]

March 28-April 1- Join the 37th FAO Regional Conference for LAC

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Caribbean Agriculture Ministers meet to discuss priority areas for FAO's work for 2022-2023

FAO Rep joins the Government of Jamaica in launching the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

On World Water Day, the Government of Jamaica held the national launch of the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture.

FAO Rep for The Bahamas met with Agriculture Minister Hon Clay Sweeting to discuss development assistance

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

During a weeklong visit to The Bahamas, Dr Crispim Moreira, Representative for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in the Bahamas, met with Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, Hon Clay Sweeting and key officials from several ministries and agencies.

These meetings aimed to [...]

Keynote lecture by ECLAC Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

March 17, 2022. Join as Ms. Bárcena speaks about the role of the UN in promoting a sustainable development agenda on socio-economic issues

Enhancing adaptation planning and increasing climate resilience in the coastal zone and fisheries sector of Belize

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The Ministry of Economic Development and Investment, the Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation, the Belize Fisheries Department, the Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute and the National Meteorological Service of Belize with assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) are officially launching a [...]

Insects, a future source of valuable animal feed in the Caribbean

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Exploring insect farming as a sustainable solution to organic waste disposal and animal feed production.

Pesticide poisoning in Belize: Addressing the upward trend

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

FAO study reveals upward trend in incidences of accidental pesticide poisoning among farmers and farm workers in Belize

The issue of pesticide poisoning among farmers and farm workers appears to be a growing area of concern in Belize that authorities are now seeking to address.

A recent study conducted by the Food [...]

Webinar on Pesticide Poisoning among Farmers and Farm Workers in Belize

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMT

FAO in Belize in collaboration with the Rotterdam Convention, the United Nations Environment Programme and the Pesticides Control Board will convene a webinar to discuss the results of a survey on Pesticides Poisoning among Farmers and Farm Workers in Belize.

Hunger is at its highest level in 20 years

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Regional Conference is a space for each country to transform their agri-food systems to make them more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.

Discover the power of pulses

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Nutrient-dense and a great source of protein, pulses are well worth celebrating!

Available now: December 2021- FAO Newsletter for Jamaica, the Bahamas & Belize

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Check out the latest edition of the FAO Newsletter for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Jamaica receives GEF financial support to safeguard its mangrove ecosystems and biodiversity

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Through funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), Jamaica’s Forestry Department, supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) are working to advance policies for the sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems.

Jamaica is home to a wide array of biodiversity and ranks fifth of the world’s [...]

Message from FAO Representative

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Warm greetings from the Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize.

We started this another unusual year with great optimism amidst the challenges we would continue to face in our countries. As we draw closer to the end of this 2021 chapter of our lives, let us not only continue to [...]

OUT NOW: Restoration Begins with Me Publication

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Publication in commemoration of the launch of the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration in the Caribbean jointly produced by FAO, United Nations Environment Programme Caribbean Sub-regional Office, the Cartagena Secretariat and the GEF-funded Integrating Water, Land and Ecosystems Management Project (IWEco).

Jamaica celebrated World Soil Day with Farmers & Community members

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT

In Jamaica, the Agricultural Land Management Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in collaboration with FAO recognised World Soil Day with a Technical Forum. The Forum took place in the rural community of Comma Pen in St Elizabeth as well as online and was attended by community members, [...]

Belize and Jamaica among 21 Latin American and Caribbean countries working together to harmonize National Forest Inventories

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Experts of National Forest Inventories in Latin America and the Caribbean launched a publication to improve the transparency and credibility of forest information.

New UN report: Hunger in Latin America and the Caribbean rose by 13.8 million people in just one year

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Hunger rose more sharply than in any other region between 2019 and 2020, reaching 59,7 million people, its highest point since 2000. Food insecurity affects 267 million people and 106 million adults present obesity.

FAO launches International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture 2022 in Latin America and the Caribbean

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Artisanal fisheries generate 90% of all fisheries and aquaculture jobs in the region.

During World Fisheries Day, commemorated today, 21 November, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) launched the International Year of Small-scale Fisheries and Aquaculture 2022 in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The United Nations General Assembly [...]

Partnerships for Peace, Planet & Prosperity in the Bahamas

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) recognizes the need to reduce food insecurity, strengthen livelihoods and rebuild economies in a manner that respects people and planet.

Over the past two years, Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic have challenged the progress made towards this and the [...]

FAO joins its UN Family in celebrating 76 years with a Special Magazine!

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT

In recognition of UN Day in Jamaica, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize, joined our UN Jamaica family in sharing highlights of our partnership for prosperity & planet through a Special Anniversary Magazine.

The magazine, published by the Jamaica Gleaner on October [...]

World Food Day celebrations in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The governments of Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize joined FAO in celebrating World Food Day with various activities. This year’s World Food Day was celebrated under the theme ‘Our Actions are our future ─ better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life.’

In Belize, a hybrid national ceremony [...]

UN commemorates 76 years by paying tribute to Jamaica's frontline heroes and bolstering partnerships to achieve Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Learn more...

World Food Day Activities in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Learn about all the activities for World Food Day happening in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize!

The Bahamas: http://www.fao.org/world-food-day/events/detail/world-food-day-in-the-bahamas/en

Jamaica: http://www.fao.org/world-food-day/events/detail/world-food-day-in-jamaica/en

Belize : http://www.fao.org/world-food-day/events/detail/world-food-day-in-belize/en

The Bahamas World Food Day National School Competitions!

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Calling all students in the Bahamas, participate in a poster, dance or poetry competition for a chance to win prizes! More...

Under the World Food Day theme: Our actions are our future: Better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, the Bahamas Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources [...]

The scourge of food loss and waste needs to be urgently tackled to achieve the world's 2030 target

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO, UNEP and partners celebrate the second International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste.

Role models and innovation give farming a new reputation in Jamaica

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Farmers are harnessing innovation to tackle water scarcity and spread their passion for growing nutritious foods

The forests of Latin America and the Caribbean are key to the planet's environmental sustainability and food security

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The Latin America and the Caribbean Forestry Commission highlighted the strategic role of the region’s forests for improving life, combatting climate change and halting biodiversity loss.

The need to move towards promoting more sustainable and resilient forest management, addressing the impacts of COVID-19, was one of the conclusions of the 32nd [...]

Hearty meals, healthy families

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

In Belize, school meals nourish children and entire communities. Read the story...

Jamaica undertakes major assessment of its food systems ahead of global UN Food Systems Summit

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

On the heels of its participation in the United Nations Food Systems Pre-Summit held in July 2021, the Government of Jamaica, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Union (EU) is carrying out a large-scale assessment of its food systems.

Over 50 [...]

Jamaica hosts the 32nd Session of the Latin American and Caribbean Forestry Commission (LACFC)

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

From September 6-10, 2021, the Government of Jamaica will host the 32nd Session of the Latin American and Caribbean Forestry Commission (LACFC)

Jamaica Food Systems Consultation Workshop- September 7

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the European Union (EU), and the French Agriculture Research Centre for Development (CIRAD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Planning Institute of Jamaica are convening a Consultation Workshop on “Catalysing the Sustainable and Inclusive Transformation [...]

Replicating technology as the groundwork for developing Jamaica's Turmeric Industry

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Known for growing one of the most pungent and potent ginger varieties in the world, Jamaica is seeking to develop the sister root, turmeric based on the success with technologies used for re-developing Jamaica’s ginger industry. Presently, almost 90% of the dried turmeric used in Jamaica is imported, despite it [...]

Harnessing new technologies to rebuild an industry

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Learn about the story of Jamaican ginger.

For many, Jamaican ginger beer, ginger tea or ginger biscuits are a household staple. This Caribbean island has long had a global reputation for its excellent ginger, known for its potency and pungency – but the industry is being threatened.

Ginger Rhizome Rot (GRR) disease [...]

Belize Food Systems Assessment Consultation Workshop - August 26

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The Government of Belize in partnership with the European Union (EU), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the French Agriculture Research Centre for Development (CIRAD) convenes a Consultation Workshop on “Catalysing the Sustainable and Inclusive Transformation of Food Systems” in Belize on Thursday, August 26, [...]

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT - IT Assistant

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Jamaica is looking for an IT Assistant. Deadline: 12 September. Learm more and apply today!

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT- Belize Project Coordinator

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Belize is looking for a Project Coordinator. Deadline to apply: 03 September. Learn more and apply...

FAO Director General addresses global leaders at UN Food Systems Pre-Summit

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 00:00:00 GMT

QU Dongyu urges global leaders at Rome gathering to change policies, mind-sets and business models to transform agri-food systems

Newsletter Alert!

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Check out the latest news, publications and global celebrations in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize.

Available now: State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI)

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The 2021 SOFI report focuses on the fragility of agri-food systems and how it can affect the number of people going hungry. Read more...

Grand Bahama and Abaco fishers to receive new lobster condos

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO, in collaboration with the Government of the Bahamas, are helping fishers to build back better by regaining control of their livelihoods and the lobster sector post-Hurricane Dorian.

Hurricane Dorian made landfall in the northeast of the Bahamas on September 1, 2019. For approximately 68 hours, the islands of Abaco and [...]

Enter the World Food Day Poster Contest

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

If you’re between the ages 5 to 19, we want you to use your imagination and create a poster of a food journey!

Deadline: 5 November 2021

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Jamaica has multiple vacancies in the areas of programme management, finance and operations, food loss and waste. Read more and apply today! Deadline: July 16, 2021

National Programme Management Assistant FAOJAM (2101771)

National Financial and Operational Assistant FAOJAM (2101773)

National Market ADRM: Food Loss and Waste Specialist (2101774)

[...]

Mexico and FAO offer validated tools to the authorities of Belize to help strengthen school feeding policies in the country

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

On June 4, 2021, FAO, the Embassy of Mexico in Belize and the Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID) delivered to the authorities of the Government of Belize two documents prepared within the framework of the MesoAmerica Hunger Free Programme.

The Mesoamerica Hunger-Free Programme, AMEXCID and FAO work with the Government of Belize in [...]

Restoration Begins with Me!

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

In March 2021, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Global Environment Facility-funded Integrating Water, Land and Ecosystems Management (GEF-IWEco) Project, the UNEP Caribbean Sub-Regional Office (CSRO), the Cartagena Convention Secretariat and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize, jointly invited [...]

Join the #RestorationBeginsWithMe Campaign!

Thu, 06 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Join the conversation on

Ecosystem and Forest Restoration.

- Submit a photo or video that shows how you care.

The United Nations (UN) has declared 2021-2030 as the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, in a rallying call for the protection and revival [...]

Deadline Extended! Multiple Vacancies

Thu, 06 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize has extended the deadline for multiple vacancies. Read more and apply today! New Deadline: May 18, 2021

BELIZE

1. National Consultant -Cooperatives Specialist (2100968)

2. National Consultant Agro-processing (2100971)



JAMAICA

1. National Consultant Agro-processing (2100972)



THE BAHAMAS

We Challenge YOU for the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables!

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 00:00:00 GMT

In celebration of the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables (IYFV), FAO challenges you to share your relationship with fruits and vegetables and to raise awareness on the important role of fruits and vegetables in human nutrition, food security and health. Join the IYFV Social Media Challenge series!

Agri-food systems must be at the center of the regional recovery efforts from the pandemic

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 00:00:00 GMT

III Meeting of Ministers of Agriculture of the Americas sought joint responses to recover from the pandemic and transform agri-food systems.

Jamaica joins global initiative to tackle marine litter to clean up the world's oceans

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaica among 30 countries partnering with FAO and International Maritime Organization

Balancing lives and livelihoods: Addressing pesticides poisoning among Jamaican farmers

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO study sparks strong discussion on imperative actions to reduce incidences of pesticides poisoning among Jamaican farmers

Each year, hundreds of farmers in Jamaica experience pesticides poisoning at varying levels of severity. In many instances these occurrences remain unreported and unattended by expert medical practitioners. With over a thousand active ingredients [...]

Request for Procurement - Fish Trap Tools - Abaco, The Bahamas

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations invites you to submit an offer for the procurement of Fish Trap Tools to be delivered to Abaco, The Bahamas.

If you are interested in submitting an offer, you must register on the UN Global Market [...]

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize has multiple vacancies now available. Read more and apply today! Deadline: April 30, 2021

BELIZE

1. National Consultant -Cooperatives Specialist (2100968)

2. National Consultant Agro-processing (2100971)

JAMAICA

1. Office Assistant – Programme (2100969)

2.

#RestorationBeginsWithMe- Join the Photo / Video Campaign

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 00:00:00 GMT

In recognition of the International Day of Forests and in the lead up to the launch of the 2021-2030 UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, the FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize, in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme Global Environment Facility- funded Integrating Water, Land and Ecosystems Management (GEF-IWEco) [...]

Caribbean countries seek to use climate-smart technologies to revolutionize regional agri-food systems

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Canada, CARICOM and FAO join hands to help countries of the Caribbean in adapting to climate-smart agriculture digital technologies, using a gendered approach, to improve the region’s agri-food systems.

Empowering women and girls is crucial to ensure sustainable food security in the aftermath of COVID-19, say UN food agency heads ahead of International Women's Day

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO-IFAD-WFP event to focus on women's leadership in efforts to build back better from the pandemic

Jamaican Turmeric destined to become one of the country's prime export crops

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 00:00:00 GMT

FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries through its regulatory arm, Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA) will today start laying the groundwork for developing Jamaica’s Turmeric Industry

Known for growing one of the most pungent and potent ginger varieties in the world, Jamaica is seeking to develop the sister [...]

MULTIPLE VACANCIES! Apply Today!

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize invites suitably qualified applicants for multiple positions. Deadline: March 1, 2021.

The following positions are being sought in each of the following countries:

JAMAICA

National Lead Consultant/ Business Incubator Coordinator (2100492).

https://jobs.fao.org/careersection/fao_external/jobdetail.ftl?job=2100492&tz=GMT%2B01%3A00&tzname=

THE BAHAMAS

National Lead Consultant/ Business Incubator Coordinator (2100493).

https://jobs.fao.org/careersection/fao_external/jobdetail.ftl?job=2100493&tz=GMT%2B01%3A00&tzname

National [...]

For the love of pulses! February 10 is World Pulses Day!

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 00:00:00 GMT

What exactly is a pulse, you might ask? Learn more...

Committee on Fisheries Thirty-fourth Session, 1-5 February 2021, Rome, Italy

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 00:00:00 GMT

The Committee on Fisheries (COFI), a subsidiary body of the FAO Council, was established by the FAO Conference in 1965

End of year message from FAO Representative

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Warm greetings from the FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize.

The year 2020 marked the 75^th Anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization and the United Nations. A year for which we had many plans, but one which pushed us to observe and reflect on the way we live [...]

Recovering better together: Enhancing Jamaica's Agricultural Response and Recovery to COVID-19

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

FAO works with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries to help female farmers and vulnerable families recover better from COVID-19 during the Christmas season

For many farmers, 2020 was the year of plenty. A year where there would be plenty to harvest and plenty to earn, and then came COVID-19. Many [...]

Belize celebrates its first World Soil Day

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Belize celebrated its first World Soil Day with a Ceremony and the launch of a video on Soil in Belize, followed by a Webinar featuring institutions that have invested in soil testing programmes.

To launch and commemorate the first World Soil Day in Belize, The Research and Innovation Center of the [...]

Jamaican students discuss Soil Biodiversity for World Soil Day

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On December 2, 2020, students from across Kingston and St. Andrew, Jamaica shared discourses on Soil Biodiversity during the World Soil Day Public Speaking Competition.

Held at the Hope Gardens, the competition focused on the World Soil Day Theme, “Keep Soil Alive. Protect Soil Biodiversity”. Ms Jamila Samuda from the Holy Childhood High [...]

Mt Airy Farmer's Group laud project as they graduate a Farmer Field School on Drip Irrigation

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On November 30, 2020, thirty-six farmers graduated from a 10-week Farmer Field School on Gravity Drip Irrigation under a Joint United Nations project.

The Farmer Field School forms a part of a wider intervention to strengthen human resilience in North Clarendon and West Kingston. Funded by the United Nations Trust Fund [...]

WEBINAR: Weathering COVID-19 in Small Island Developing States: A pathway to resilience

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Join FAO Brussels as we amplify the voices of Small Island Developing States on the structural vulnerabilities and the looming impacts on food systems due to the pandemic, on Thursday, December 10, 2020

New United Nations report reveals the inequality in the geographical distribution of malnutrition in Latin America and the Caribbean

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations calls for the targeting of new policies and investments in the lagging territories of Latin America and the Caribbean.

FAO supports the Bahamas in Livestock Farmer Field School

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On November 24, 2020, FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources in The Bahamas will convene a workshop/webinar geared towards introducing the Farmer Field School (FFS) methodology and to validate the proposed curriculum of the Livestock (FFS) on the islands of Grand Bahama and Abaco.

Background

Following a request from [...]

Celebrating Food Heroes and FAO75

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On World Food Day and in celebration of FAO's 75th Anniversary, virtual celebrations were in full swing in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize.

A week of virtual activities swarmed across Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize, with virtual national ceremonies, videos highlighting local food heroes, webinars and a cooking show. Under the theme: Grow. [...]

Banding together to re-root the Jamaican ginger industry

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Collaboration is key to rebuilding an industry. Read more...

How are you harnessing technology and private sector partnerships in developing agriculture post-COVID-19?

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Need some tips from the ground?

Join us on Thursday, November 5, 2020 at 1:00pm (Jamaica time) for a webinar on

Harnessing Public-Private Partnerships to drive resilient agriculture and agribusiness in the Caribbean post-COVID-19: Experiences, successes and lessons learnt from the Jamaican ginger sector

Join our webinar at: http://bit.ly/WFD-FAO-75years or [...]

FAO member states approved 3 new priorities for Latin America and the Caribbean

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The priorities approved by the FAO Conference are: sustainable food systems to provide healthy diets for all; hand in hand to achieve prosperous and inclusive rural societies; and sustainable and resilient agriculture.

October 23, 2020, Santiago, Chile - The FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean concluded on October 21 [...]

Celebrating Food Heroes and FAO75

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On World Food Day and in celebration of FAO's 75th Anniversary, virtual celebrations were in full swing in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize.

A week of virtual activities swarmed across Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize, with virtual national ceremonies, videos highlighting local food heroes, webinars and a cooking show. Under the theme: Grow. [...]

FAO Regional Conference brings together all the Ministers of Agriculture of Latin America and the Caribbean to promote a great transformation

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The Conference seeks to establish a roadmap towards sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture, prosperous rural societies and a food system that guarantees healthy food for all.

More than 2,700 people participated in the process that gave rise to the work plan that the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) [...]

FAO calls for collaboration and innovation in Latin America and the Caribbean

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Regional Conference kicks off virtually with focus on COVID-19 responses and strong political support and participation from Members

The 36^th session of FAO’s Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, hosted virtually by the Government of Nicaragua, started today with Members exchanging their experiences, strategies and ideas on [...]

LIVE Cooking Session - Oct 16- World Food Day

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

For World Food Day 2020 at 6 p.m. Jamaica time, join us for a one hour cooking special, Cooking to Reduce Food Waste, with Foodie, Dad, Communicator, Social Change Influencer, and Producer of Podcast Jamaican Dadz, Mr Garth Williams.

On October 16, the Food [...]

Virtual Celebrations of World Food Day in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

A week of virtual activities are in store for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize. Under the theme: Grow. Nourish. Sustain. Together. Our Actions are Our Future, the countries will carry out weeklong celebrations that will culminate on October 16! Here are some of the events that you shouldn't miss!

JAMAICA (Weeklong [...]

FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

From October 19-21, 2020, 33 LAC states will virtually meet to find joint solutions for sustainable development of the region.

Google and FAO launch new Big Data tool for all

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Earth Map empowers FAO’s Hand-in-Hand geospatial platform and allows anyone with basic Internet access to tap critical climate, environmental and agricultural information

Caribbean managers and professionals start a course to strengthen their skills in implementing school feeding programs

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Promoted within the scope of the International [...]

NOW HIRING: Agricultural Research and Extension Specialist

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The deadline for applications is September 1, 2020. Apply here...

Available now! DIG IN to our latest Newsletter

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 00:00:00 GMT

FAO serving Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize shares with our readers news, stories and information up to July 2020. Check it out now...

Public managers of the Caribbean begin online course on Food and Nutrition Education for School Feeding Programs

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The training is promoted by the cooperation [...]

Strengthening the team

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The Representation strengthens its team with the introduction of four new and repositioned members: Clifton Wilson, Beichen Ding, Everton Robinson and Armando Aban.

Mr Clifton Wilson (Photo- 1st from left) is the new Assistant FAO Representative - Programme, for the FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize based in Kingston, [...]

FAO launches the new COVID-19 Response and Recovery Programme outlining seven key priority areas

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 00:00:00 GMT

FAO's new programme aims to [...]

UN: Hunger in Latin America and the Caribbean could rise to almost 67 million people by 2030

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The State of Food Security and Nutrition warns that the region will fail the hunger target of the Sustainable Development Goals. Hunger has risen to 47.7 million people in 2019.

FAO Director-General proposes new structure to make FAO agile and efficient

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 00:00:00 GMT

New joint report proposes ten measures to [...]

WEBINAR: Food Production & Marketing in a Digital Era: Challenges & Opportunities for the Caribbean

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Join us on Thursday, June 11, 2020 (Jamaica time) for in depth discussions, questions and answers.

World Oceans Day- Fisheries management works, so it's time to apply it more broadly!

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On June 8, as we celebrate World Ocean's Day and launch the FAO’s State of the World’s Fisheries and Aquaculture 2020, we track growing fish production and consumption, and highlight the promise of sustainability actions.

FAO Sub-regional Coordinator shares thoughts on Food Safety for World Food Safety Day

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Few things are as natural and as necessary as eating food. However, if food producers, food processors, food handlers and consumers do not follow good food safety practices, food can become contaminated and rather than nourishing us and bringing us pleasure it can make us sick or even kill us. [...]

Happy World Environment Day 2020!

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Healthy ecosystems are fundamental for preventing global diseases and ensuring food security.

Recognising International Day for the Fight Against Illegal, Unreported & Unregulated Fishing

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

International momentum is pushing forward [...]

A week of celebrations!

Tue, 26 May 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On May 20 each year, we celebrate World Bee Day to raise awareness on the essential role bees and other pollinators play in keeping people and the planet healthy, and on the many challenges they face today.

WEBINAR: Agricultural Investment to Overcome COVID19 in the Caribbean

Tue, 05 May 2020 00:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, May 7, at 11 am Jamaica time, FAO and CARICOM will host a Webinar on enabling agricultural investment in the Caribbean for an effective response and post-COVID-19 recovery.

Times: 11 am- Jamaica ; 10 am - Belize and 12 pm - The Bahamas

FAO and IICA facilitated an unprecedented hemispheric [...]

FAO's Big Data tool on food chains under COVID-19

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Get real-time information on the impact of COVID19 on food, agriculture, value chains, food prices and food security.

11 international organizations join hands to secure food systems, agriculture, and trade during the COVID-19 pandemic

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Food and agriculture heads of international organizations [...]

25 Latin American and Caribbean countries coordinate during COVID19 to ensure there is no food lacking

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Ministers and Permanent Secretaries of agriculture, livestock, fisheries, food and rural development from 25 countries signed a declaration detailing measures to ensure that food is not lacking.

Mitigating impacts of COVID19 on food trade and markets

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Director Generals of FAO, WHO and WTO share a joint statement on mitigating the impacts of COVID19 on food trade and markets

7 healthy eating tips to face the COVID19 crisis

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

FAO calls on everyone to strengthen their immune systems with a healthy and conscious diet that avoids food waste.

Q&A: COVID-19 pandemic – impact on food and agriculture

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Are you wondering about the impacts of COVID19 on Food and Agriculture? This is what our experts have to say!

Happy World Water Day !

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Everyone has a role to play! Climate change is threatening one of our planet’s most precious resource – water. By making responsible choices in our diet and daily life, we can save water.

FAO warns of the impact of COVID-19 on school feeding in Latin America and the Caribbean

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

UN Organization calls for countries to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on children’s nutrition.

What is FAO doing regarding the COVID19 Outbreak?

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is working closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to assist member countries and research communities in identifying potential animal hosts of this virus and reduce spillover events to humans.

Building supply on the heels of demand

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Using FAO's participatory approach to Value Chain development in Barbados, Belize, and Jamaica...learn more

Belize swims upstream with its Tilapia sector

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Belize attracts buy in from fishers, processors, vendors, and private and public sector partners to build the Tilapia sector using a novel approach to value chain development.

Over sixty stakeholders including farmers, fisherfolk, producers, processors, private sector companies, and ministry representatives from across sectors are meeting to understand how they [...]

UN food agencies offer support to China amid coronavirus outbreak

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

During the tour, the Bahamas delegation observed the sustainable school feeding model in the [...]

FAO offers Emergency Response to The Bahamas following Hurricane Dorian

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

On September 1, 2019, The Bahamas was hit by Hurricane Dorian, a Category 5 storm.

Abaco and Grand Bahama, two major islands of the Commonwealth experienced the catastrophic impacts of this hurricane and approximately seventy thousand people were impacted. While the approximate death toll at the time of this posting stands [...]

Happy World Soil Day!

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Let's #StopSoilErosion to ensure a food secure future...

FAO launches 2020 as the UN's International Year of Plant Health

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Plants make up 80 percent of our food but are under constant and increasing threat from pests and diseases.

On December 2, 2019, FAO launched the International Year of Plant Health (IYPH) for 2020 to raise awareness about the importance of plant health in addressing hunger, poverty and [...]

FAO Hands over ADRM Strategy and Plan to the Government of Jamaica

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaica’s new Agricultural Disaster Risk Management Framework and Strategic Plan was officially handed over by FAO to the Government of Jamaica.

Mr Juan Cheaz Pelaez, FAO Officer-in-Charge officially handed over the document to Mr Winston Shaw, Senior Director, Division of Technology, Training and Technical Information and Climate Change contact for the [...]

FAO Twitter for the Caribbean

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The English-Speaking Caribbean will now have access to real-time information and updates from FAO through the new FAO in the Caribbean Twitter.

Followers on Twitter will now have acess to up to the minute information on events, stories and happenings relating to food and agriculture.

We encourage you to follow us, retweet [...]

Adult Obesity quadruples in the Caribbean

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

According to the new FAO Panorama for Latin America and the Caribbean, the rate of adult obesity in the Caribbean has quadrupled from 6% in 1975 to 25% today.

Bioeconomy, a key to rural development in Latin America and the Caribbean

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

FAO, ECLAC and IICA highlight the bioeconomy as an innovative way to drive sustainable rural development in Latin America and the Caribbean

Ram-ing up Belize Agribusiness

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Ten farmers in the Yo Creek village of Belize today received eleven purebred Cathadin ram offsprings from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration in an effort to support the strengthening of the sheep industry in the country.

The distribution of the off-springs is an effort to [...]

Weeklong World Food Day celebrations in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

FAO celebrated World Food Day under the theme Healthy Diets for a #ZeroHunger World with weeklong activities across the representation in partnership with the Ministries of Agriculture for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize.

Activities across the representation started on Friday, October 11 and culminated on Sunday, October 20, 2019 and included [...]

Latin America and the Caribbean is responsible for 20% of global food lost and wasted from post-harvest up to retail

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

According to a new FAO report, The State of Food and Agriculture 2019.

EU provides extra €9 million to support FAO's work promoting nature-friendly agricultural practices in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT
The Agreement will focus on tackling land degradation and desertification, and bolster food security and resilience to climate change

VACANCY: Assistant FAO Representative- Programme Management

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize is seeking applications from suitably qualified persons for the position of Assistant FAO Representative (Programme).

To apply or learn more about the position, visit the FAO Jamaica, the Bahamas website at www.fao.org/jamaica-bahamas-and-belize.

Deadline for submissions by qualified candidates is

Friday, [...]

Growing the Tilapia Sector in Belize

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Private Sector in Belize were absorbed in a week of intense training geared towards developing the country’s Tilapia sector.

Delivered by Ms Bree Romuld, FAO’s Agribusiness and Value Chain Development Consultant for the Caribbean, the training sought to introduce a more systematic planning [...]

Experts address the risk of banana fungal disease

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Technicians from 11 countries attended the Regional [...]

Research series analyzes the main rural, agricultural, food and environmental challenges of Latin America and the Caribbean

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

FAO and the Institute of Peruvian Studies [...]

NOW HIRING THREE CONSULTANTS

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

FAO is looking for a Programme Management Consultant in Jamaica, and a National Agribusiness & Contract Farming Consultant and National Legal Consultant in Belize.

PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is seeking applications from suitably qualified persons for a temporary Programme Management Consultant. The [...]

FAO shares on climate resilient crops at Denbigh 2019

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The Denbigh Agriculture Show this year focused on the theme “Aligning farming decisions with climatic conditions”, a very apt theme for the Small Island Developing State constantly threatened by the impacts of climate change. In keeping with the theme, FAO stood ready to showcase climate resilient crops [...]

Four islands of the Bahamas receive FAO assistance to develop an Integrated Agro-ecological Production System in Small Ruminant Livestock

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The islands of New Providence, North Andros, Eleuthera, and Long Island engaged in 10 days of technical assistance provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) on the assessment of the small ruminant (sheep and goats) sector.

A team of six technical officers, led by Jeri Kelly, [...]

Belize becomes the 20th LAC country to join the Parliamentary Front against Hunger

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

On July 29^th, the Government of Belize launched the Belize Parliamentary Alliance against Hunger and Malnutrition under the MesoAmerica Hunger Free Programme and the Hunger-Free Latin America and Caribbean Initiative.

The Government of Belize confirmed their political commitment through the signing of a parliamentary declaration by the Belize National Assembly to [...]

New FAO Representative for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Dr Crispim Moreira has been appointed as FAO Representative for Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize.

Dr Moreira, a national of Brazil, is an Agricultural Engineer and holds a Doctorate in Geography
from the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Dr Moreira started his career in 1993 as Deputy Secretary of Municipal [...]

FAO engages with Jamaican food and agriculture stakeholders to identify national food and agriculture priorities for 2020-2021

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

During a one-day meeting organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), stakeholders identified national needs within the framework of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development. This process was a first step in allowing FAO to formulate its Regional Initiatives for the next biennium 2020-2021 and [...]

Jamaica's new national committee on Agriculture Disaster Risk Management endorsed by Minister Shaw

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Minister Audley Shaw endorses Jamaica’s new national committee on Agriculture Disaster Risk Management.

Jamaica re-establishes a National Agriculture Disaster Risk Management Committee to further activities in promoting disaster risk and climate change adaptation measures in Jamaica’s Agriculture sector.

Over thirty agriculture stakeholders from government entities, non-governmental organizations and other development partners were [...]

FAO's next Director General

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The 41st FAO Conference has elected China's Qu Dongyu as the agency's next leader

Calling all foodies: this one's for you!

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Celebrating Sustainable Gastronomy Day! Learn more...

FAO welcomes new Sub-Regional Coordinator

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The FAO Sub-Regional Office for the Caribbean welcomes its new Coordinator, Dr Renata Clarke.

Dr Clarke has worked at the FAO Headquarters in the area of food safety for the past 20 years, and since 2011, she was Head of FAO Food Safety and Quality Unit. While at FAO-HQ, she has [...]

Meet the new faces of FAO

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize is pleased to welcome some new members to the team who will provide tremendous support to work in the sub-region.

Ms Bree Romuld joins the team as Agribusiness and Value Chain Development Consultant for the Caribbean

Ms. Romuld joined the FAO family in [...]

Celebrating the first World Food Safety Day

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

June 7 is World Food Saftey Day, celebrated under the theme "Food Safety: Everybody's Business".

The UN General Assembly declared June 7, 2019 as the first World Food Safety Day, which is a partnership between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nation (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). [...]

FAO chief hails international treaty combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The Port State Measures Agreement’s rapid adoption is a critical boon for global efforts to safeguard global marine resources and achieve food security

The Decade of Family Farming has begun

Wed, 29 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

On May 29th the United Nations launched the Decade of Family Farming, a sector that employs more than 60 million people in Latin America and the Caribbean

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) launched the United Nations Decade for [...]

Happy International Day of Biodiversity!

Wed, 22 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Observed on May 22 each year, the day is used to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues.

The 2019 theme is “Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health”.

FAO has a long history of fostering sustainable agricultural development and the sustainable use of [...]

Happy World Bee Day!

Mon, 20 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

What is World Bee Day? Learn why we need bees for a nurtitious future!

World Bee Day is observed each year on May 20. It draws attention to the essential role bees and other pollinators play in keeping people and the planet healthy and shines a light on [...]

Jamaica develops a national strategy and action plan for tackling illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing

Fri, 17 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Jamaica prepares to join 59 States and one Member Organization as a party to the 2009 FAO Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing.

Jamaica’s fisheries stakeholders engaged in five days of discussions towards the formulation of a national strategy and [...]

UN Joint Project aims to strengthen human resilience

Wed, 15 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Strengthening Human Resilience is the new call being actioned by these multiple UN Agencies in collaboration with the Government of Jamaica. The United Nations and Government of Jamaica Joint Project on Strengthening Human Resilience in Northern Clarendon and West Kinston is a two year project being implemented with [...]

FAO forecasts strong growth prospects for global production and trade of tropical fruits

Fri, 10 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Latin America and the Caribbean is the world’s most important exporter for bananas and the four major tropical fruits – mangoes, pineapples, avocados and papayas.

As the world’s largest exporter –and second largest producer- of bananas and tropical fruits, Latin America and the Caribbean is particularly well positioned to benefit from [...]

New report calls for urgent action to avert antimicrobial resistance crisis

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

If no action is taken, drug-resistant diseases could cause 10 million deaths each year by 2050...Click to learn more

The #FutureofFood depends on the future of food safety

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Learn how whole Genome Sequencing is helping us decode the risks to our food.

Transforming food and agriculture to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

20 actions to implement the 2030 Agenda

Belize launches National Menu for School Feeding

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The national menu considers not only the preparation of food, but also the size of portions served to students, as well as the elimination of unhealthy snacks.

Read more via @channel5belize: https://bit.ly/2Vi35Ny

Belize establishes a National Committee for Sustainable School Feeding

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT
The Committee will help promote the adoption of healthy practices by students and their families, through actions such as the implementation of school gardens to improve food and nutritional education.

Free Course: Cultivating Good Water for a Sustainable Future

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

FAO and ITAIPU Binacional invites you to enroll in the Self-Learning Course on methodologies for the integral and sustainable production of goods and services for the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean

Twenty-five fruit trees donated and planted for International Day of Forests

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Six schools in Manchester, Jamaica received donations of 25 fruit trees from FAO to mark International Day of Forests.

Each year March 21 marks International Day of Forests and is earmarked as a day to raise awareness on the importance of forests for sustaining livelihoods, as a source of food, clean [...]

Jamaica strategizes a new agro-environmental approach to disaster resilience

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Over the next years, climate change is expected to worsen improvements in food security and agricultural development.

In recent years famers and fishers have felt the crippling impacts of climate change on their livelihoods and food production. Jamaica’s food security and agricultural development are heavily dependent on the country’s capacity [...]

FAO mourns the loss of a colleague

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Sorrow at the loss of a colleague and the other victims of the airplane crash in Ethiopia

Happy International Women's Day!

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

FAO continues to support Women in Agriculture, read more:

FAO highlights the successful stories of the women of [...]

Message from FAO Representative a.i.

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

In the spirit of new beginnings, we are graced with renewed opportunities for growth and a chance to prepare new pathways for achieving our goals. In mid-December 2018, I assumed the role of FAO Representative ad interim, providing me with an opportunity to continue the good work of those before [...]

Biodiversity & Our Future of Food

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Latin America and the Caribbean has the second highest number of wild food species reported, by type and region. Check out the 2019 State of the World’s Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture

Join our team as an IT Specialist

Tue, 19 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) invites qualified persons to submit an application for a consultancy as an Information Technology Specialist with the FAO Representation located in Kingston, Jamaica.

Please visit this link for further information and instructions on the application process.

Deadline: April 10, 2019

LOVE! Discover what it really means to love our food

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Food is much more than what is on our plates. Read more on how to love your food.

Nature's nutritious seeds: 10 reasons why you should opt for pulses

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Find out why you should include pulses (peas, lentils, beans) in your diet

An exciting FAO career awaits!

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) invites qualified persons to submit an application for the position of Assistant FAO Representative (Programme Management) in the Representation for Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize.

The office is located in Kingston, Jamaica.

Please visit this [...]

FAO seeks to boost shrimp and ground-fish numbers in the Caribbean using comprehensive fish stock assessment course

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Intended for fisheries managers and fisheries officers from countries in the North Brazil Shelf Large Marine Ecosystem.

Click here to learn more.

How safe is our food?

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Food safety and quality are vital ingredients for Zero Hunger. Discover how international food safety standards help protect health and facilitate trade.

Thousands of farmers to receive support to increase their production

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Over USD60 million will be injected into Jamaica’s agriculture and rural tourism sectors come 2019. Farmers and rural producers are among those to benefit from the funds, geared towards enhancing agricultural productivity, agro-processing and rural tourism.

Following the successes of the World Bank funded Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI), phase [...]

Re-rooting Jamaican Ginger to the World

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For years, Jamaica has tried to reconnect its ginger to the world market with little success, but as the country fights the Ginger Rhizome Rot disease that has stunted its progress, there are plans to support the value added aspects of the much-revered root.

Twenty of Jamaica’s experts met to [...]

Strengthening Agriculture for a Healthier Future in the Region-15th Caribbean Week of Agriculture

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The 15^th Caribbean Week of Agriculture brought together countries from across CARICOM for five days of discussions, engagement, and expeditions all geared towards “Strengthening Agriculture for a Healthier Future in the Region.”

FAO was among the agencies from the Caribbean that participated in the event and brought attention to its national school feeding [...]

Waste not, want not: Improving diets by reducing food loss and waste

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

A new policy brief calls for action to reduce the loss and waste of high-nutrient foods

Inequality exacerbates hunger, malnutrition and obesity in Latin America and the Caribbean

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Click to learn more.

Looking for stats on food security?

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The new World Food and Agriculture Statistical Pocketbook 2018 is a quick reference guide for anyone involved in decision-making for food security.

Regional fisheries experts meet to discuss the sustainable management of the Queen Conch

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Fisheries representatives from Latin America and the Caribbean meet to assess the commitments and the progress made regarding sustainable management and conservation of the queen conch.

Queen conch is the second most important invertebrate in the Caribbean. Queen conch production continues to show a negative trend in the region, largely attributed [...]

Thirty trained in certified ginger production

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The tenacious ginger rhizome rot disease has thrived in Jamaica for years, managing to reduce our production of quality ginger on the global market. Throughout the years, FAO has supported the Government of Jamaica in trying to rid the island of the disease and nurture the planting of disease free [...]

2018 The State of Food and Agriculture - Migration, Agriculture and Rural Development

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Test your knowledge on migration, agriculture and rural development- answer these questions

Jamaica passes new Fisheries Act

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

In October 2018, the Government of Jamaica passed a revised Fisheries Act with 25 Amendments.

The new act replaces the 1975 Fishing Industry Act and aims to foster a more enabling environment and legal framework for the Fisheries sector. It also aims to ensure that the sustainable management and [...]

Celebrating World Food Day 2018

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Our Actions are Our Future. A #Zero Hunger world by 2030 is possible, was the theme for this year’s World Food Day. Jamaica, The Bahamas and Belize joined in days of celebration through national ceremonies, a conference, a health walk/run/fair, food donations, exhibitions, and a youth symposium. These activities shed [...]

Belize holds Rural Youth Symposium to kick-start World Food Day celebrations

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Ninety-two (92) students representing five (5) secondary and tertiary learning institutions in Southern Belize, today, took part in the 2^nd Annual Rural Youth Symposium: Engaging Rural Youth on Agriculture. The students hailing from the Toledo Community College, Independence High School, Julian Cho Technical High School, University of Belize, Toledo; and [...]

15th Caribbean Week of Agriculture

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

From October 8 to 12, 2018, the Government of Barbados will host the 15th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) under the theme: “Strengthening Agriculture for a Healthier Future in the Region”

FAO welcomes new Trade and Marketing Officer for the Caribbean

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Mr Juan Cheaz joined the FAO family in September 2018 following an extensive career in the field of development serving Latin America and the Caribbean. Mr Cheaz is a trained Economist with relevant technical and managerial experience in agriculture and rural development. Just before joining FAO, Mr. Cheaz worked for [...]

Sign up today for this free seminar

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The 2030 Agenda and Opportunities for the Caribbean: “Towards sustainable food systems and agriculture”. Click to learn more.

Global hunger rises for a third consecutive year

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

FAO launches new report on the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2018 (SOFI). Learn more here.

NEW VIDEO: Belize embarks on experience exchange with Guatemala's School Feeding Programme

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The Government of Belize, with the support of FAO, the Mesoamerican Hunger Free programme and the Mexican Agency for International Cooperation for Development (AMEXCID), embarks on a mission to revamp its school feeding programme through an Exchange of Experiences on School Feeding Programmes in Guatemala.

As Belize works to strengthen its [...]

FAO stimulates thoughts and taste buds at Denbigh 2018

Fri, 24 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The annual Denbigh Agriculture Show in Jamaica rallies people from across the country and the region to share in three days of food, agriculture and fun. FAO joined this 66^th staging of the show with a unique take on goat produce, visual displays of value added ginger production, [...]

What can you do to help achieve #ZeroHunger?

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Our Call to Action- Let’s achieve Zero Hunger!

On October 16, we are celebrating World Food Day under the theme Our Actions are Our Future. A Zero Hunger world by 2030 is possible.

This is OUR call to action.

Whether you're a business, farmer, government representative or simply someone that's [...]

Goat Dairy anyone?

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For many unsuspecting patrons of the Denbigh Agricultural Show and the FAO Booth, a sample of goat dairy was the experience of the day. Through a partnership with Ruby Goat Dairy, FAO invited Denbigh patrons to sample goat milk, goat cheese- chèvre, and goat milk [...]

Yardley Chase Female Farmers building resilience one shade house at a time

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the female farmers of the Yardley Chase Farmer’s Group in St. Elizabeth, the impacts of climate change are a daily reality. Crop irrigation is a constant struggle for the farmers who live in a drought stricken area, many of whom cannot afford the costs of setting up irrigation systems. [...]

FAO participates in Jamaica's 66th Staging of the Denbigh Agricultural Show

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

FAO joins in Jamaica's 66th staging of the Denbigh Agricultural Industrial and Food Show, which attracts hundreds of food and agriculture enthusiasts each year at the Denbigh Showground in May Pen, Clarendon. This year FAO's participation will promote the small ruminants and ginger value chains, [...]

Fostering competitive value chains in The Bahamas

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Small-scale producers in The Bahamas have long faced the challenge of being able to capitalize on market opportunities and meet market entry requirements. The lack of proper governance for the group and a roadmap for their success have been at the crux of the matter.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of [...]

World Food Day 2018 Poster contest (Age 5-19)

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

FAO calls children and teens from all over the world, age 5 to 19 years, to use their imagination and create a poster that illustrates their idea of Zero Hunger. Young minds can be inspired by the World Food Day Activity Book that explains [...]

CONTEST: Good Practices in School Feeding Programmes (SFPs) - Deadline July 31, 2018

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Launched by FAO and the Government of Brazil, the Contest on Good Practices in School Feeding Programmes (SFPs) in Latin America and the Caribbean aims to identify successful experiences of school feeding programmes in the region. School feeding experiences shared during the contest will inform a digital publication intended to [...]

Farmer organizations, lunch vendors, local producers and caterers share ideas on revamping the Bahamas' School Feeding Programme

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture and Marine Resources, Education, and Health engaged farmer organizations, lunch vendors, local food producers and caterers in discussions towards the revamping of the Bahamas National School Feeding Programme (SFP).

These discussions were informed by findings of a comprehensive National Assessment of the SFP [...]

Revitalizing our roots: Up-scaling Ginger Production in Jamaica

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Ginger has long been a revered spice in Caribbean cuisine. In Jamaica, the spice was traditionally known to be of a very high quality, however, over the years, production decreased mainly due to the prevalence of the Ginger Rhizome Rot (GRR) Disease, affecting farmers in key growing areas.

Since 2016, [...]

“Do you see yourself as an Industrialist?” - Developing Jamaica's Small Ruminants Industry

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

In Jamaica, the small ruminants sector has been slow to develop as a sustainable and lucrative industry. The Jamaican Government and its people have made efforts to improve breeds and diversify products to include cosmetics, clothing, goat cheese and goat milk, but the production quantity has often been small and [...]

E-Learning Course- Cultivating Good Water

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For World Water Day 2018, FAO invites persons to register for the "Cultivating Good Water Program: methodologies for the integral and sustainable production of goods and services for the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean".

The E-learning course if being offered by FAO and ITAIPU Binacional and has [...]

Regional leaders set the agenda for ending hunger during a record setting Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the first time in FAO history, the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean opened with a record attendance of ministerial representation from all 33 countries across the region.

The 35^th Regional Conference gave Latin American and Caribbean ministers an opportunity to collectively decide on FAO’s [...]

New Website for FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The FAO Representation for Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize introduces its first website. The launch of the website is a timely accomplishment for the FAO office, which is currently celebrating 40 years of representation in Jamaica.

The website provide more targeted content on FAO’s work with the [...]

Stakeholders identify seven priorities for Jamaica's food security, agriculture and rural development

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Rates of obesity are high and growing across all socioeconomic levels. Regional poverty is much more severe in rural areas. Addressing climate change requires major agricultural transformation

These issues brought together over forty agriculture and rural development stakeholders who agreed on seven priorities for improving Jamaica’s food security and developing the [...]

Strengthening the social protection, food security and nutrition of students in the Bahamas

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The Bahamas National School Feeding Committee with intersectoral representation from the Ministries of Health, Education, Agriculture, and Social Services is being considered following recommendations from a High Level and Technical Workshop held in December 2017. The Committee is a result of discussions held under the FAO supported project on “Assessing [...]

FAO celebrates 40 Years of representation in Jamaica

Wed, 03 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The establishment of an FAO Office in Jamaica in 1978 ushered in the dawn of more targeted technical support to promote the development of the country’s food and agriculture sector. In its 40^th year as a Representative Office in Jamaica, FAO continues to work with the Government of Jamaica to [...]

Jamaica to host 35th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean

Fri, 22 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In 1968 Jamaica hosted the 10th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean (LARC) for the first time. In 2018, Jamaica will once again host this momentous 35^th session, marking 50 years after the 10th Session was held in the country and 20 years since [...]

Six Jamaican schools are making strides in sustainable school feeding

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Six pilot schools in Manchester, Jamaica highlighted their successes and commitment towards meeting the six components of sustainable School Feeding Programmes (SFPs) during an FAO Stakeholder’s School Feeding Programme workshop in December 2017. Christiana High, Craighead Primary, Holmwood High, Mile Gully Primary, Mile Gully High and Pike Primary presented notable advances [...]

FAO engages fishers and producers in dialogue on sea cucumber exploitation

Tue, 19 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fishers and producers from across the eastern coast of Jamaica joined in discussions that will soon affect their livelihoods, income and opportunities in relation to sea cucumber exploitation. FAO in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, engaged in three days of developing a strategy to manage [...]

Advocating for soil protection and conservation in Jamaica

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Over 50 students joined FAO in the celebration of World Soils Day under the global theme “Caring for our planet starts from the Ground. In collaboration with Jamaica’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, through the Agricultural Land Management, Public Parks and Research and Development Divisions, students of the [...]

The Bahamas welcomes a three year Food and Nutrition Security Policy

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Government of The Commonwealth of the Bahamas launched its Food and Nutrition Security Policy (FNSP) 2017-2020 in December 2017.

Through FAO's technical support, the Ministries of Health and Agriculture developed the policy which provides a short-term strategy to addressing the complex and inter-related issues impacting food and nutrition security in [...]

Discussing upcoming FAO Regional Conference in Jamaica

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

FAO Director-General meets CARICOM’s representative at the 158th Session of the Organization’s Council

Building resilience and promoting rural development on World Food Day

Sun, 05 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, the Bahamas focused their annual World Food Day Drive on victims located in the Southern Islands. During the country’s national ceremony, numerous boxes and cases of non-perishable items were donated towards the cause. In addition to these donations, over 500 people including schools, ministries [...]

Caribbean experts strategize for a reduction in Jamaica's food losses and waste

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A recent report by FAO shows that 20 – 30% of national domestic food production is lost annually, equivalent to $7 billion Jamaican dollars.

FAO awards farmers across Jamaica

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In its 65^th year of celebration, under the theme, “Grow what we eat, eat what we grow: A Salute to our farmers…Nation Builders”, the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show drew crowds from across Jamaica in salutation to Jamaica’s farmers. FAO joined in this celebration with the establishment of a [...]

FAO partners with Jamaican government to revive ginger sector

Sat, 01 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In line with Regional Initiative Two on family farming and inclusive food systems for sustainable rural development, a new FAO project is seeking to revive Jamaica’s ginger production industry and provide an additional source of income to help small farmers sustain their livelihoods.

The project supports the development of the ginger [...]

FAO works with Jamaica to advance sea cucumber industry development

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Since the April 2015 launch of a sea cucumber project, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Jamaica has continued to work with the Government of Jamaica towards capacity building in the resource assessment and management of the Jamaican sea cucumber fishery and the potential for [...]

Cassava bread gets thumbs up: stakeholders in Jamaica hopeful about commercial potential

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Under FAO’s sub-regional project for Processing and Market Development of Cassava in select Caribbean Community Countries, a baking demonstration and sampling exercise were the latest steps in promoting cassava as a viable commercial product for Jamaica and other countries in the Caribbean.

On July 13, 2016, 10 local bakers attended and [...]

FAO Jamaica celebrates International Year of Pulses

Tue, 15 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

In celebration of the International Year of Pulses in Jamaica, patrons to the 2016 Agriculture show were treated to an interesting display from July 30 to August 1, 2016.