CARIBBEAN Region

2006 Regional Report

La contribución del IICA a la agricultura y al desarrollo de las comunidades rurales en la CARIBBEAN Region

Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture

IICA encourages the fair use of this document. Proper citation is requested.

This publication is also available in electronic (PDF) format from IICA’s Web site at http://www.iica.int

Editorial Coordination: Jorge Suárez / Kattia Núñez Mechanical Editing: Olga Patricia Arce Layout: Ana Catalina Lizano / Karla Cruz Cover Design: Ana Catalina Lizano

Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture IICA’s contributions to agriculture and the development of rural communities in the Caribbean Region / IICA. – San Jose, C.R. : IICA, 2007. 80 p. ; 20.5 cm

ISBN13: 978-92-9039-

1. Agriculture 2. Rural development 3. International cooperation 4. Technical aid 5. Caribbean Region I. IICA II. Title

AGRIS DEWEY E50 338.181

San Jose, Costa Rica 2007 Table of Contents

Foreword 5

1. Introduction 7 2. Executive Summary 9 3. The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 13 4. Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 31 IICA’s contribution to the repositioning of agriculture and rural life 31 Promoting trade and the competitiveness of agribusiness 33 Strengthening agricultural health and food safety systems 36 Promoting the sustainable management of natural resources and the environment 38 Strengthening rural communities based on the territorial approach 39 Introducing technology and innovation for the modernization of agriculture and rural life 40 Results of inter-agency cooperation 42 Cooperation with FAO 42 Cooperation with PAHO 43 Cooperation with other regional and international organizations 43

5. Executive Summaries by country 45

Appendix I: Publications 69

Appendix II: Acronyms 73

Appendix III: List of professional staff in the Caribbean 75

Contacts 77

3 Table of Contents Foreword

he Inter-American to achieving the goals and objectives of Institute for Cooperation the Regional Transformation Programme on Agriculture (IICA) is for Agriculture/Caribbean Community pleased to present its Annual Agricultural Policy, the Hemispheric Agro Report for 2006 for the Plan 2003-2015 and the Global Food TCaribbean, entitled “IICA’s Contribution Security Programme and the Millennium to the Development of Agriculture and Development Goals. Within this major Rural Communities in the Caribbean framework, during 2006, the Institute Region”. This report marks the end of an vigorously promoted the concept of the institutional process of being responsive New Agriculture and initiated the process to the needs of clients and stakeholders, of forging an alliance with the media to through the participatory preparation enlist public support and empathy for the of National and Regional Agendas. The process of agricultural repositioning. annual report and the accountability seminar reflect the Institute’s guidelines I wish to thank our stakeholders and on accountability and transparency in the clients for their oft-repeated sentiments conduct of its activities. of appreciation for the excellent work done. This has been possible due to the The report is presented in two main dedication, team work and commitment to sections. The first describes the Situation excellence of the entire group of personnel and Outlook for Agriculture in the Region – Representatives, Regional Specialists, and regional actions that add value to National Professionals and support actions at the national level. These regional staff – working for the Caribbean in our activities are described within the strategic Offices, and the Regional Directorate at areas of: Repositioning Agriculture and Head Office. I wish to thank them most Rural Life, Trade and the Competitiveness sincerely. of Agribusiness, Agricultural Health and Food Safety, Strengthening of Rural We at IICA, look forward to providing Communities, Technology and Innovation continued service to the agricultural sector Systems and Sustainable Management of in the Caribbean and making a positive Natural Resources and the Environment. contribution to sustainable development at both the national and regional levels. The second section presents the Executive Accordingly, we would be pleased to obtain Summaries of the Annual Reports of our feedback from you on how to improve the 14 member countries in the Caribbean. Institute’s performance at both the national and regional levels. During 2006, the Institute remained committed to the repositioning of agriculture in the Caribbean. In this H. Arlington D. Chesney context, it actively supported the Director of Operations, Caribbean implementation of the Jagdeo Initiative Region and Advisor to the Director as the region’s initial but focused response General on Caribbean Affairs, IICA

5 Foreword I. Introduction

esponding to the The Jagdeo Initiative (the Initiative) continued opportunities continued to serve as a guide for the and challenges offered preparation of the Institute’s Caribbean by the agricultural regional work plan which endeavoured sector in the Caribbean to respond to the 10 Key Binding Rin 2006, the Inter-American Institute Constraints identified therein. IICA for Cooperation on Agriculture continued to promote the Initiative at all (IICA) advanced its contributions levels throughout the year and capitalized to the development of agriculture on a media workshop, which it organized and rural life through its actions at and hosted during the Caribbean Week both the country and regional levels. of Agriculture (CWA) in the Bahamas, The Institute continued to promote to sensitize over 30 of the region’s vigorously the New Agriculture and the media personnel to the Initiative and to opportunities associated with it. These the importance of the regional efforts at opportunities included those derived revitalizing the agriculture sector in the from advances in agro-biotechnology, Caribbean and addressing solutions to agrotourism linkages, the growth of some of the many constraints faced by the herbal industry, and openings in the countries. greenhouse technology and organics. IICA also embarked on a new area of With funding from CTA, the Institute potential importance for the region: embarked on a regional project “Building agro-energy, with the preparation of a Caribbean Agricultural Monitoring and a draft regional strategy that can be Evaluation System” which represents used as the basis for the development part of an ongoing process of defining of an agro-energy industry in the appropriate mechanisms for measuring Americas, with specific focus on the the progress of the Agro Plan 2003- Caribbean region. 2015 and the Initiative. The Caribbean is the first region in the Americas to The Institute also initiated, at a workshop implement such a project that satisfies in Tobago, the process of reorienting the the mandates of both the Hemispheric agricultural research and development and Regional Heads. strategy so that it could satisfy the requirements of the New Agriculture. In October 2006, the Institute and the This would include activities throughout Ministry of Agriculture and Marine the entire agri-product chain and the Resources of the Bahamas, in association involvement of both the public and with the CARICOM Secretariat, CARDI private sectors. and FAO, hosted its most successful

7 INTRODUCTION Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) and projects, published a number of to date. The focus of the week was newsletters, technical documents and Sustaining Marine and Agriculture reports, under the various themes of Resources into the Future. Widened work, which were widely distributed participation from different sectors and among stakeholders and beneficiaries. from the Caribbean, North and Central These are available from IICA country America and Europe, solidified the offices in the region. Information on growing popularity of this event on the the Institute and its programmes in Caribbean calendar – as one that sets the the region can be obtained from the stage for agri-initiatives and fora in the websites: Caribbean. • IICA Country websites at www.iica.int The Alliance for Sustainable • Caribbean Regional Agricultural Development of Agriculture and the Policy Network (CaRAPN) – Rural Milieu (the Alliance) continued www.carapn.net to receive administrative, technical • Caribbean Network of Rural and logistical support from IICA, in Women Producers (CANROP) – collaboration with the CARICOM www.canrop.org Secretariat (CCS) and the Food and • Caribbean Agribusiness Association Agriculture Organization (FAO). The (CABA) – www.cabaregional.org constituent members of the Alliance: the Forum of Ministers of Agriculture of the Caribbean, the Caribbean The Institute began the process of Agribusiness Association (CABA), developing a website that reflects the the Caribbean Agricultural Forum for work of the IICA Caribbean region, Youth (CAFY), the Caribbean Council which will add value to the already of Higher Education in Agriculture established country websites available (CACHE) and the Caribbean Network on www.iica.int. The IICA Caribbean of Rural Women Producers (CANROP), website, which will be launched in 2007, along with the Caribbean Regional promises to provide increased access to Agricultural Policy Network (CaRAPN) a wider range of relevant information all were represented at the CWA in on the regional programmes as well October. as focus more specifically on the areas of the New Agriculture, which the The Institute, through a combined effort Institute is promoting in the process of of country offices, regional programmes agricultural repositioning.

8 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture II. Executive Summary

In 2006, the Caribbean region was linkages between agriculture and tourism; generally spared the wrath of natural exploitation of opportunities in niche hazards, such as hurricanes, extreme and specialist markets within and outside adverse weather conditions, and pest the region; greater appreciation of the and disease outbreaks of economic potential of agro-biotechnology and the significance. However, extensive development of the ‘new’ agriculture flooding in Guyana and Suriname cost products. These efforts, among others, these countries millions of dollars in led to a much better appreciation of the agricultural products. Overall, domestic relationships between and requirements agriculture showed relatively good for developing a ‘new’ agriculture that is performance, with expanded output, sustainable and contributes meaningfully to both in terms of volumes and range, the economic development of the region. of crop and animal products for local The Institute continued to support markets. However, the steady increase the Jagdeo Initiative which sought in prices of food and fuel made food to strengthen its coordination of security a rising concern in 2006, and regional priorities to provide more more especially given the influx of effective support to Member States visitors expected in the region for the in their actions to alleviate the 10 Key 2007 Cricket World Cup (CWC). The Binding Constraints and provide a firm general response was calls, at both the platform for agricultural development national and regional levels, for more within the CARICOM Single Market. affirmative action, definitive road maps, In collaboration with ECLAC and with master development plans and long funding from the CTA, the Institute term policy. These were seen as essential initiated a project to build a monitoring to attract investment and stimulate and evaluation agricultural information agribusiness development in order to system that seeks to consolidate and reinvigorate the agriculture potential, strengthen existing information processes enhance food security, reduce poverty and systems in Caribbean countries and develop a sustainable sector. to satisfy the need for monitoring and evaluating progress on the Agro Plan Amidst the generally slow or negative 2003-2015 and the Jagdeo Initiative. growth in traditional agriculture, there Emphasis was thus placed, inter alia, were some indications of recovery in: on strengthening capacity for good the expansion of banana production environmental and agricultural practices, in Dominica, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and disaster preparedness, mitigation and relief, Suriname; exploration of a wider range of greater diversification and integration of products from the sugar cane industry in agriculture with other economic activities Barbados and Guyana; strengthening of and business development at all levels.

9 Executive Summary Through its Regional Agribusiness Credit Unions and the OAS Federal Programme (RABP), IICA continued Credit Union aimed at increasing access to promote trade and the by the rural poor to sustainable finances competitiveness of agribusiness in as well as to increase investments in its Member States by facilitating the agriculture and agribusiness. provision of an enabling environment for several public and private sector In collaboration with other agencies, the stakeholders to improve their economic Institute hosted the 6th Caribbean Week competitiveness. A major component of Agriculture (CWA) in Nassau, the of this initiative is the support to CABA, Bahamas, which was attended by over in general, and the implementation of its 200 persons from across the region and Multilateral Investment Fund-financed internationally. It was recorded as the project to retool small and medium most successful CWA to date. enterprises. The Institute assisted organizations in the Bahamas and St. The Institute collaborated with several Kitts and Nevis in the preparation national, regional and international of draft policies and regulations and agencies in addressing agricultural designed and implemented a Gap Survey health and food safety issues in the of policies, legislation, regulations and region and jointly hosted a major Meeting protocols in the Eastern Caribbean on Animal Diseases Surveillance and States (ECS). Preparedness: Focus on Avian Influenza in the Caribbean at which technical IICA’s continued support to capacity meetings of the CaribVET Network development within agribusiness were also held. included the preparation of strategic plans for organizations in the Bahamas The Institute developed its own strategy and Saint Lucia and the successful on Avian Influenza supported by a securing of four CIDA bursaries for special website on www.iica.int and, with young agriculturists from Saint Lucia, support from FAO, USDA/APHIS, Dominica and Trinidad to gain new conducted Avian Influenza simulation skills and knowledge in multi-media exercises in the Dominican Republic and technologies via the Secretariat of the Jamaica. The Institute also played a critical Caribbean Agribusiness Association. role in furthering the implementation IICA carried out an assessment of 16 of the Caribbean Invasive Species associations/networks in Saint Lucia Strategy – a multinational and and St. Kitts and Nevis, concerning multi-institutional initiative. their readiness for modernization. A comprehensive strategy and work Together with FAO, IICA also hosted plan was submitted to the Ministry a regional consultation on draft ISPMs of Agriculture and Government of and conducted a regional workshop on St. Kitts and Nevis to modernize, the Guidelines for Regulating Wood diversify and reposition non-sugar Packaging Materials in International agriculture and the rural economy. Trade. Several workshops on Good Agricultural Practices were held in The Institute initiated a cooperation Barbados, the Dominican Republic, agreement with the World Council of Guyana, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and

10 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Tobago. Manuals on Good Agricultural communities in Jamaica and one Practices for several products and a in Guyana. manual on Herd Health management for small ruminant production were IICA furthered its commitments to developed in collaboration with USDA/ introduce technology and innovation APHIS and the University of the systems for the modernization of West Indies. agriculture and rural life. It collaborated with several key regional and Through funding under IICA’s SPS international institutions in addressing Initiative of the Americas, the Institute biotechnology and biosafety and other continued to support representatives research and development issues in the of all 14 countries in the region to Caribbean, by hosting two major regional attend the meetings of the World Trade biotechnology workshops and another Organization’s Committee on Sanitary in R&D. IICA also completed the and Phytosanitary measures held in strategy for the Caribbean Programme Geneva Switzerland. on Biotechnology and Biosafety (CPBB) and developed two regional In furthering its efforts at strengthening biotechnology projects identified in the rural communities based on the Needs Assessment exercise that was territorial approach, IICA supported previously conducted for the region. Suriname and Guyana in preparing a The Institute also continued its support draft Sustainable National Rural to CARDI through the funding of Development Policy. In Suriname, 14 jointly-identified projects. it supported the Suriname Bauxite Company, SURALCO, in the The Institute continued its support to the development of a project for the district development of the herbal business sub- of Moengo to maintain the quality of sector, primarily through the provision life in mined-out bauxite lands. An of financial and administrative support OAS-funded project to establish the to the Secretariat of the Caribbean potential of agrotourism as a contributor Herbal Business Association (CHBA). to both the quality of rural life and Under this arrangement, the Pro-Invest- national and economic development funded project on market and technology is being implemented in selected research on herbals of economic Caribbean countries. importance was completed, producing investment opportunity profiles and a The Institute continued to support the number of technology briefs for major Caribbean Network of Rural Women product categories in the international Producers (CANROP). It facilitated a trade in herbal products. number of capacity-building workshops for the national networks and hosted IICA continued to promote greenhouse CANROP’s 5th Annual General Meeting technology at various technological and and Institutional Awareness Workshop capital level requirements and provide in Guyana in July 2006. support to the development of the organic movement in the Caribbean, Principles of the territorial approach to stimulate commercial activity and continued to be validated in two investment in agriculture.

11 Executive Summary III. The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006

devastating socio-economic effects of In the Caribbean, except for the the adverse weather conditions of 2004 floods, which cost Guyana and and 2005 or further contraction and/or Suriname millions of dollars termination of traditional industries due in agricultural products, the to changes in trade policies of major region was generally spared trading partners, or that a combination the wrath of natural hazards, of both had been stabilised, and hence such as hurricanes, extreme performance in 2006 would have been fair to moderate. adverse weather conditions and pest and disease outbreaks Grenada was among the good performers, of economic significance. with agriculture rebounding, showing 20.5% growth following a 38.1% decline In 2006, agriculture in some countries in 2005. This post-hurricane recovery was continued to experience slow growth, fuelled by approximately US$1.1 million as in Barbados (1%), and declines, as in ‘soft loans’ to agriculture under the in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Government’s Agricultural Enterprise Suriname. Others reported fairly good Development Programme (AEDP) and growth rates. Overall, the situation in production support to revitalise banana, agriculture is reflected by the Caribbean plantain, cocoa and nutmeg production Development Bank’s conclusion that under the post-Ivan Agricultural “the prospects for 2006 are reasonably Recovery Programme (ARP). In Jamaica, favourable, driven largely by construction agriculture grew by 17.6%, due partly to in anticipation of continued growth in expansion in sugar, cocoa, coffee and tourism” (Overview of the Caribbean bananas and the resumption of ackee Economies in 2005). This implied exports to the United States after a one- that the agriculture sector would still year suspension by the USDA. In the be struggling to overcome either the Dominican Republic, a 9.9% growth

13 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 in crops and livestock represented the (5.6%). Jamaica also showed growth third consecutive year of steady growth, in its food crop and livestock (mainly generating 26,000 new jobs. This made poultry) production, by 6.8% and 5.1%, it one of the most dynamic sectors of respectively. In Saint Lucia, expanded the economy. This performance was domestic food production was buoyed attributed largely to production support by local purchasing, mainly from hotels programmes, particularly the Recovery and restaurants. Grenada also reported Programme for the Production of Basic that domestic market was ‘flooded’ Foods (REPROABA) and increased with vegetables as a result of concerted financing of 22.2% compared to efforts at rehabilitating non-traditional the same period in 2005, from the agriculture, mainly fruits, vegetables and Agricultural Bank of the Dominican root crops. However, in all countries Republic (BAGRICOLA). generally, non-traditional agriculture remained comparatively limited The situation in Haiti differed markedly compared to the traditional sub-sector. from the other Caribbean countries. This suggested little structural change in Politically, 2006 marked the end of a the sector. two-year transition period for Haiti, and a return to constitutional order. A The traditional banana and sugar new President was elected in February industries exhibited mixed performance. (Mr. René Garcia Preval) with a five- Only Dominica, Saint Lucia, (the latter year constitutional mandate, and a new accounting for in excess of 54% of legislature - the 48th - came into effect. Windward Islands exports), Jamaica However, political and social instability and Suriname reported meaningful continued with serious repercussions expansion in banana production and for agriculture and rural welfare. The exports. The expanding volumes of instability impacted negatively on bananas exported under the Fair Trade intra-national movement of goods, label continued to drive the recovery including agricultural products from of banana industries. Caribbean banana rural areas to markets in the capital, with producers reaffirmed the importance of consequent adverse impacts on the cost the industry to their domestic economy of food products, particularly fruits and and pledged continued support to vegetables in urban areas. ensure its survival. The year 2006 was an adjustment for Caribbean banana exporters. It marked the introduction of Overall, domestic agriculture showed the European Union (EU) Tariff-Only relatively good performance, with Regime (on January 1st) and towards expanded output, both in terms of years end, Ecuador launched a new attack volumes and range, of crop and animal on the new regime at the WTO, the first products for local markets. since it took effect. Ecuador complained of unfair treatment, by way of 176 euros Growth experienced in Barbados was (225.6 dollars) per tonne customs duty on due largely to non-sugar agriculture, bananas from Latin America. However, led by poultry (6.3%) and fishing quoting data which showed an increase

14 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture in banana imports from Latin America growth of exports to international during the first half of the year, the EU markets, or have substantial potential Agriculture Commissioner deemed that for growth in intra-regional trade, or can the complaints from Latin America were generate significantly expanded supplies unjustified. of a key input underpinning international competitiveness in other activities…. and In 2006, CARICOM sugar industries be capable of imparting dynamism to were also at various stages of other economies and to the Community transition occasioned by changes in as a whole”.1 The strategic importance the EU sugar regime. Most had already of agriculture was also underscored in a developed integrated Action Plans for mid-year (June) High-Level CARICOM improving industry competitiveness, Single Market and Economy (CSME) for diversification through value-added Symposium, Caribbean Connect, held activities, involving use of the sugar in Barbados. Consequently, issues cane plant, and for transition into pertinent to the CSM implementation other economic activities. Against this were extremely relevant to the nature backdrop, Heads of Government, at and pace of agricultural development their 27th Conference, reiterated the in 2006. urgent need for the EU to make funding under their Financial Perspective, “Growing hunger, rural 2007-2013 adequate and readily poverty and malnutrition is accessible to facilitate implementation unacceptable in a region of the plans. as rich and endowed with resources such as ours” . . . agriculture is an “economic President Bharrat Jagdeo, of Guyana, driver of growth” Lead CARICOM Head for Agriculture; 21 January

Constrained performance notwithstanding, agriculture constitutes At the regional level, agricultural an integral element of the economic development was increasingly and integration process. Indeed, it is identiﬁed organically linked to regional unity as a as an economic driver of growth in driving force in the implementation of the Caribbean Community as a whole, the CSME. Economic integration is seen alongside energy, sustainable tourism as an imperative strategy for optimising and new export services. For CARICOM the development potential of the countries, this suggests that despite its Region. The year 2006 was earmarked past difﬁculties, its sub-sectors or cluster for the implementation of the Single of activities continue, as Girvan points Market (CSM). On January 30th 2006, out, “to have the potential for sustained Barbados, Belize, Jamaica, Guyana,

1 Discussion on what constitutes an economic driver can be obtained from the report on the Symposium, entitled, ‘Towards the Single Economy – Report’, Norman Girvan [draft dated September 21, 2006].

15 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, medium term, to revitalise agriculture through the Declaration of the coming and to strengthen its competitive into being of the CSM, signalled to the potential, continued. The core strategy region and indeed the rest of the world, was to prioritise specific elements for that the basic framework of the Single immediate and urgent coordinated Market is functional. The Declaration actions, while simultaneously supporting of Intent as signed by Antigua and individual Member States’ actions that Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint contribute to the alleviation of these Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and Saint KBCs. Top priority was accorded to Vincent and the Grenadines signified Financing and Investments (KBC #1), their intention to join by the end of Outdated and Inefficient Agricultural June 2006, provided that the mechanics Health and Food Safety Systems (KBC of the Regional Development Fund #2), Research and Development (R&D) were finalised. This Fund is intended (KBC #3), Strengthened and Organised to provide financial and/or technical Private Sector (KBC #4) and Disaster assistance to countries, regions or Management (KBC #6). sectors disadvantaged by the operations of the CSME. Its capitalization is aimed On the issue of increased financing, the at two hundred and fifty million United tendency of funds being provided to States dollars (US$250 million) with facilitate the public as opposed to the contributions from Member States and private sector remained a major deficiency other sources such as donor agencies. in regional funding mechanisms. The Already Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad establishment of an Agricultural and Tobago have pledged contributions Modernisation Fund (AMF) within the totalling 17 million United States dollars RDF was one intervention proposed to (US$17 million). The contribution bring balance to this situation. However, formula that has been agreed to takes by year end, the AMF remained a concept. into consideration the CARICOM Success of the Initiative would require Budget Formula and Member States’ increased funding at both the national respective economic size, economic and regional levels, with the Caribbean well-being and share of benefits of the Development Bank (CDB) taking a economic integration process. lead role. Consequently, the CORE Group, responsible for managing the Given its integral role in cementing implementation of the Jagdeo Initiative and stimulating growth in the CSM, the agreed that the CARICOM Secretariat revitalisation of agriculture assumed even more urgency in 2006. The critical (CCS), CDB, the Food and Agriculture issues of growth, food security, hunger, Organisation (FAO) and IICA would rural poverty and environmental integrity strengthen their cooperation mechanisms remained on top of the agriculture to ensure a more coordinated, holistic revitalization agenda, both nationally approach in the mobilisation of funds, and collectively. The focus on the Jagdeo the development of the AMF, and the Initiative, as a vehicle to alleviate the 10 planning and hosting of the Donor and Key Binding Constraints (KBCs) in the Investment Conferences in 2007.

16 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Efforts to alleviate the constraints related Bio-Safety (CRPS&PSS) was finalised to ‘Outdated and Inefficient Agricultural through the collaborative efforts among Health and Food Safety (AHFS) Systems’ regional (including CCS, CARDI, continued to focus on operationalising UG, UWI), hemispheric (including the Caribbean Agricultural Health and IICA) and international organizations. Food Safety Agency (CAHSFA) to The establishment of a coordinating coordinate, implement, monitor and office for the Consultative Group for evaluate national AHFS interventions. Agro-biotechnology in the Caribbean This function will include consolidating to have main responsibility for the existing legislation and strengthening implementation of the CRPS&PSS surveillance, monitoring and enforcement was recommended. to build confidence in the safety and integrity of the agri-food system. The Notable R&D efforts driven by the CARICOM Secretariat anticipated that need to accelerate development of the CAHSFA should be operational by June ‘new’ agriculture, included expansion in 1 2007, once the draft legal framework hydroponics (greenhouse) technology for its establishment and the final for a wider range of agricultural crops structure and institutional arrangements in Jamaica and Saint Vincent and the are approved, and agreed financial Grenadines, the upsurge of organic contributions received from Member and niche products in Guyana, the States. introduction and expansion of breeding facilities for the pork industry in Jamaica The establishment of a committee to and Trinidad and Tobago, and the urgently develop the Regional Research recent breakthrough by the UWI St. and Development (R&D) Strategy was Augustine campus and a Trinidad firm agreed to. The recommendations of Kairi Blooms in developing bacterial an IICA/CARIRI regional workshop disease resistant varieties of anthurium, on Optimizing the benefits of R&D for the with an estimated total production Development of Agribusiness in the Caribbean of roughly 2 – 3 million cut flowers, (May) sought to establish the best down from 10 million in the 1980s and mechanism for coordinating research 1990s. By the end of 2006, these efforts, within and outside the farm and among others, led to a much better integrating it throughout the entire agri- appreciation of the requirements for food/product chain, including greater developing a ‘new’ agriculture and the involvement of the private sector. Efforts sustainable development of agriculture to develop a regional R&D coordination in the region and the importance of mechanism to link the institutions in the public-public, private-private, public- region were expected to contribute to the private and academia-private/public CARDI/IICA initiative to implement sector partnerships. an R&D strategy once developed. In keeping with the regional debate on The growing need and call for the agro-biotechnology and bio-safety, a private sector to get more proactive and Caribbean Regional Policy, Strategy involved in agriculture repositioning and Programme on Biotechnology and remained a topical issue, particularly in

17 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 terms of generating investment funds, of reaching developed country status prioritizing R&D and other development by 2020. Plans to invest in commercial imperatives. Apart from the few large agricultural production, processing and conglomerates, such as, the food and marketing will be accelerated in 2007. beverage manufacturers, Grace Kennedy of Jamaica, and Ansa McAl and S.M. Indeed, increased private sector Jaleel of Trinidad, the agribusiness sector participation in agriculture, from both is still under-resourced and dependent leadership and business perspectives, on public sector programmes. The will contribute signiﬁcantly to secure entire private sector – big and small - regional food supplies. This was the is fragmented and does not speak with general conclusion in 2006 as the one voice. The Jagdeo Initiative calls on steady increase in prices of food and member States to take urgent actions fuel became pressing issues in several to alleviate this KBC of a ‘Fragmented Caribbean countries, primarily Barbados, and Disorganised Private Sector’. Dominica, Jamaica and T&T. Indeed, The private sector itself agrees that in in several instances, the domestically order to alleviate this constraint, they and regionally produced goods, more must become more organized and co- so than imported products, exhibited ordinated. In this regard, the efforts of some of the highest price increases. the Caribbean Agribusiness Association This outcome was blamed on rising (CABA) to organise and consolidate input costs and consequently costs of the agribusiness sector continued in production, as a result of rising fuel 2006. In this task, CABA accelerated prices. This placed agriculture and preparations to implement an Inter- policy makers under much greater American Development Bank (IDB) scrutiny from a diverse set of interest Multilateral Investment Fund (IMF) groups. There were repeated calls for the project aimed at strengthening Market Caribbean companies, especially food Access Opportunities for Agricultural and beverage manufacturers, to get more Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). involved in the food production process, CABA was also considering the formation from input supplies to cultivation and of Commodity Associations for rabbits, processing, marketing and retailing. This hot peppers, coconuts, sweet potatoes, was considered essential if sustained cassava, pumpkins, golden apples and progress is to be achieved in national and herbs. The Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) regional food security with expanded National Chapter of CABA (TTABA) intra-regional trade. was approved as the main implementing agency for the T&T Ministry of Additionally, the critical role of the Agriculture and Marine Resources’ private sector in generating business (MALMR’s) Agribusiness Development in all aspects of the new and expanded Programme. The programme, launched agriculture was underscored. This in November, is meant to overcome included more concerted efforts to the weaknesses faced in the agriculture create and sustain linkages to tourism industry and position agribusiness as a and energy. With regard to tourism, major pillar of the Government’s vision several reports indicate that, in spite

18 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture of burgeoning tourism, the net gains several Caribbean countries. Indeed, this from the industry are far below gross is in line with the CDB’s conclusion of receipts. For example, it was estimated continued growth in tourism fuelling that, in Jamaica, an estimated 50% of the economic prospects for the region every tourism dollar exits the economy. in 2006. In fact, the World Travel and The Jamaican research suggested that Tourism Council (WTTC) had estimated domestic agriculture and country size growth in tourism of 16.4% of the were the two most important factors GDP in the Caribbean region for 2006, in determining the import content for and predicted that Caribbean Travel the tourism industry. In 2005, Jamaica and Tourism would grow by 3.9% per imported US$602 million, with exports annum, in real terms, between 2007 and amounting to only US$193 million. Field 2016. The major source markets are research revealed that most of the food expected to grow (Canada +20%, US consumed by tourists was imported; a +7%, EU +11%). Cruise tourism is also trend which has also become prevalent expected to increase by 10% over the among domestic consumers. If Jamaica same period. and other Caribbean countries are to maximise the benefits from tourism Since 2002, the IICA Office in Barbados development, then ways must be has been the focal point for promotion found to increase backward economic and development of AgriTourism linkages, including utilization of local Linkages in the Caribbean. It has food products in the tourism industry. concentrated on addressing critical High levels of leakage in tourism also issues identified from consultations existed in the Bahamas (85%) and with key stakeholders, research and Barbados (50%). studies. In 2006, IICA collaborated with the Organization of American States In the context of both rising food prices (OAS) to implement a three-year (2005- and high leakages in tourism attributed 2008, US$444,000) regional project to food imports, food security remained with participating countries, promoting a burning issue in 2006 given concerns increased linkages between Tourism with the over US$3 billion food import and Agriculture. The seven participating bill. Dominica’s food import bill jumped Caribbean Countries are Jamaica, St. from US$10 million in 1990 to US$19.2 Kitts and Nevis, Commonwealth of million in 1994, an increase of over Dominica, Barbados, T&T, Guyana and 104%, and to US$165 million in 2005. Suriname. This project seeks to create Generally, the most imported items economic opportunities, enhance the were dairy and meat products, alcoholic sustainable development of both the and non-alcoholic beverages, grains tourism and agricultural sectors and and grain products, vegetables and fruit build resilience in rural communities. products with increases both in terms IICA was also able to secure funding of volumes and range of options. It (£40,000) from the Commonwealth is widely believed that a large factor in Secretariat to conduct an 8-month study the growing food import bill is the rapid on Culinary Tourism for Barbados, promotion and growth of tourism in beginning in April 2007. This should

19 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 strengthen tourism as an additional and Caribbean Hurricane Preparedness growing market for food products from Project aimed at redirecting assistance agriculture. Forging agriculture-tourism from recovery to assisting countries in linkages will capitalize on the inherent implementing mitigating strategies to ability to diversify the Caribbean minimise the effects of natural hazards economy, stimulate entrepreneurship, on agriculture. The project included catalyse investment and assist in wider the establishment of plant and seed social development in local communities. banks in selected Caribbean countries to Such linkages, along with others, allow for availability and distribution of such as, energy, offer unprecedented plant material to minimise disruption in opportunities to stem and reverse the food supply after a hurricane or flood. declines in traditional agriculture and In addition, the ACS’s 12th Meeting stimulate the rapid growth in ‘new’ of the Special Committee on Natural agriculture in Caribbean economies. Disasters (June 2006) also launched a project for a High-level Conference on Resilience of rural communities Preparedness, Mitigation of the Effects and agriculture to disasters is also and Recovery from Natural Disasters in an essential element of sustainable the Greater Caribbean. The purpose of development. At the special Agriculture the new project would be to exchange COTED in January 2006, Ministers of experiences, lessons learnt and best Agriculture reaffirmed the need to have a practices in the areas of natural disaster consolidated and integrated approach to risk reduction, mitigation and recovery disaster management in agriculture and within the region, as well as determine validated the necessity of undertaking areas of intra-regional co-operation in such research to guide the development both ambits and strengthen Members’ of practical interventions. Disaster national preparedness capabilities. Management represented an area where several organisations, including the Resolving issues related to inadequate Association of American States (ACS), land and water management systems the Economic Commission for Latin was also given special attention in 2006. America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), the Serious flooding in Guyana, Jamaica United States Agency for International and Suriname during the year, following Development (USAID), IICA and similar serious occurrences in other FAO complement the activities of the Caribbean countries in 2005, placed the region’s Caribbean Disaster Emergency issue of improving water management Response Agency (CDERA), as they squarely on the region’s agricultural relate to agriculture. CDERA has development agenda. Rainwater already developed a strategic plan (Risk harvesting and irrigation technology Management Strategy) for the region were widely discussed in the region in which will be reviewed and discussed 2006. At a regional workshop (Tortola, in 2007. IICA continued its work with March) discussion focused on developing respect to mitigating mechanisms, a process for a Regional Strategy for through agricultural insurance. In Rainwater Harvesting in the Caribbean. April, FAO launched a US$25.9 million A significant recommendation was

20 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture that rainwater harvesting should be biosafety meetings in the Caribbean. included as part of the Integrated Research and Development (R&D) in Water Resources Management Strategy the Caribbean in agro-biotechnology (IWRMS) by all countries of the region. included excellent work on disease- A potential source of funding for the resistant papaya, disease-resistant development of this strategy is the anthuriums and pathology in yams, hot Integrated Coastal Area and Watershed peppers and tomatoes. CARICOM has Management (IWCAM) Project, which mandated CARDI to coordinate activity has funds allocated for the development relative to the use of GMOs. IICA of the IWRMS in pilot countries. Among has initiated dialogue amongst relevant the organisations involved in this area scientists in the Caribbean on the are FAO, the Caribbean Environmental adequate management and commercial Health Institute (CEHI), and the United use of agro-biotechnology and aspects Nations Environmental Programme of biosafety. This has resulted in the (UNEP). development of a Caribbean Agro- Biotechnology and Biosafety Strategy A topic that evoked much dialogue and (referred to earlier) and the development is directly and integrally related to KBCs of projects to effect its implementation. #2, 3 and 6, was the application of This model is being used by IICA biotechnology and biosafety in Caribbean to create “coordinating” blocs in agriculture. All Caribbean States (with the the Americas. exception of Jamaica [signed], Guyana and Suriname [not signed]) have ratified However, there is still insufficient support the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety for agro-biotechnology, including and are in the process of developing investment in the potential of bio- National Bio-Safety Frameworks (NBF). energy. Concerns over the loss of some The Protocol addresses only the trade Caribbean breeds and virtual lack of in live GMOs and not the safety of all measures to maintain genetic stock with GM food, in general. It thus requires superior growth and meat characteristics, the country of export to seek approval such as the frizzled chicken and naked- from the country of import for Living necked village fowls of Antigua and Modified Organisms (LMOs) to be Barbuda and the Creole black pig (such used for processing or directly in food as in Haiti), also occupied the agro- or feed. Development of the capacity biotechnology debate. Fortunately, the to conduct risk assessment of LMOs, value of other local animal breeds, such proper biosafety for handling and transit as, the Barbados Blackbelly Sheep (BBS) of LMOS and risk communication with and the St Croix White, continued to be the general public is also part of the well recognised and genetic stock secured NBF. There have been many national and improved.2 Such actions taken and studies, policy frameworks and regional being explored by Barbados with respect

2 Extracted from comments and information circulated through the FAO Barbados Ofﬁce online forum.

21 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 to the BBS include production efficiency impact transportation of agricultural increases, protection of intellectual and other produce within the Caribbean property rights and the production of and beyond. In presenting the study to value-added products bearing the BBS the Council of Trade and Economic logo. Development (COTED) towards the end of 2006, the main findings were Another area of significant debate was that all member states had utilized the extent of the role of ‘organics’ in appropriate, reliable and competitive air the ‘new’ agriculture. It is generally and sea freight space to North America believed that organic farming only and Europe. The possible exceptions accounts for a very small percentage of were Suriname (for air freight to Europe) total agriculture in the Caribbean; while and Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago there are still some areas where few or (for sea freight to Europe). However the no agro-chemicals are used, lack of state study confirmed the general opinion that regulations for organic farming makes transportation was the major bottleneck it difficult to distinguish agricultural to increased intra-regional trade. The products in a true organic system from findings indicated that the available those produced with chemicals or even intra-regional sea freight services for with little chemicals use. However, fresh produce requiring refrigeration because of relatively small size and the were generally inappropriate in terms need for higher value small volume of transit times and trans-shipment “niche” products, going organic was risks. It also concluded that the level of being widely promoted as a viable intra-trade in perishable products was development option for agriculture in insufficient both in terms of volumes the region. This is partly due to positive and high-end value product types, thus impacts on the environment and human limiting the viability of dedicated air or health, and the apparent seamless sea freight services. These findings hold links to agricultural and environmental implications for the focus and directions tourism and its impact on sustainable of interventions in agriculture aimed development. Indeed, earlier in the at enhancing and expanding intra- year, Dominica indicated its interest in regional trade in agricultural products. pursuing an ‘Organic Island’ concept, They suggest that, among other things, expecting to be the first country in the concerted efforts must be made to world to pursue such a development expand and secure the supply capacity model and achieve such a status. that would support dedicated air and sea freight services that facilitate continuous The other KBCs are also critical to the trade flows within the region. Other successful repositioning of agriculture complementary actions must also in the Caribbean. In addressing the be taken to spur trade in agricultural issues of limited intra-regional trade products within the region, including related to KBC #7 Inadequate (export) product handling guidelines and trade transportation, a study was undertaken protocols that assure product safety and to clarify and document the concerns quality and agricultural health. Vibrant of shoppers and other issues that intra-regional agricultural trade is critical

22 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture to stimulate agricultural production and on agriculture and the EU Economic food security in CARICOM and will Partnership Agreement (EPA) be an essential mechanism to bind the negotiations remained strong. The need single market and ultimately, the single to ensure the ‘development dimension’ economy. Strong regional integration in the structure and provisions of the has been emphasized as a critical strategy WTO and EPA negotiations was central for the development of the region and to this commitment. In 2006, there for its balanced integration into the was virtually no further progress in the global economy. WTO talks, with contentious issues of agricultural subsidies and market access The time frame for the Jagdeo Initiative being major stumbling blocks. As the is 2015. This is in keeping with the target April modalities deadline approached, of both the Millennium Development CARICOM countries remained Goals (MDGs) and the Agro Plan 2003- concerned over the inability of the 2015. The region has 8 more years to major players to strike agreement on achieve substantial progress in the 10 core issues related to full modalities. As KBCs. This will be critical to establishing a leading grouping of small, vulnerable a stable platform for the development economies, CARICOM was of the view of sustainable agricultural and rural that its development interests were not sectors. It will also be pivotal in making receiving adequate attention. The April agriculture a signiﬁcant socio-economic 30, 2006, deadline for farm modalities force in accelerating regional integration and the submission of a comprehensive and adapting to more liberalised draft was again, missed, so too was the trading arrangements. submission of schedules based on these modalities by 31 July. As a consequence, the negotiations were suspended in ...commitment to global July, rendering the December deadline integration and negotiations on an impossible target. The continued agriculture hinged on obtaining failures throughout the year to achieve a meaningful expression to the breakthrough in the WTO negotiations development dimension received mixed responses. On the one hand, it relayed negative signals with respect to genuine commitment to the Despite the slow progress in 2005, spirit of the Round and the capacity of trade negotiations continued to occupy the WTO to manage the negotiations. the national and regional agenda in On the other, it was seen as providing 2006. Still reeling from the adverse additional opportunity, and time, for impacts of the Uruguay Round trade countries and blocs to formulate and liberalization on their traditional adopt more ﬂexible positions in relation banana and sugar industries, Caribbean to issues of importance to developing countries continued with their cautious countries and hence facilitate the approach. However, commitment to achievement of the development goals global integration, through the World of the Doha Round. Trade Organisation (WTO) negotiations

23 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 The EU-EPA negotiations continued of tariff liberalization for goods; the but with few meaningful conclusions negotiation of commitments for trade in in terms of firm commitments by both services and investment; and the design negotiating parties – the CARIFORUM and operationalisation of the cooperation countries and the EU. The sequencing of activities in effective and timely support market strengthening relative to market of EPA implementation. A 2007 EPA opening and the pace of market opening negotiating schedule was agreed to so as in relation to the internal and external to ensure resolution of these outstanding realities facing CARIFORUM countries issues and the entry into force of the was underscored. In April, similar EPA by January 1, 2008. sentiments as for the WTO negotiations were expressed with respect to the As the negotiations continued, the apparent lack of meaningful expression preferential market access schemes to the development dimension in the EPA on which Caribbean countries have negotiations, given the EU’s assurance at traditionally depended for duty free the April 2004 launch of the negotiations, access to the major markets of North that the EPA would be an instrument America and Europe came under of development and would respect and increasing challenge in the WTO, from support the Region’s own integration both developed and developing countries. process. Heads of Government urged Requests for waivers by the US and the CARICOM banana exporting countries EU to extend preferences under the to take steps to determine a collective Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act approach to the treatment of bananas (CBERA or CBI), and the ACP import in the EPA, including political will to regime for bananas, respectively, placed support the ACP initiatives, to convince the future of these current schemes in the EU that bananas should be listed as a jeopardy. The difficulties experienced in sensitive product. By year end, there was securing approval for waiver renewals broad consensus on the structure and underscored the challenge and intense scope of the EPA, with the agreement scrutiny to which such unilateral that a development chapter must be preferential schemes are subjected to in included in the EPA legal text and that the multilateral trading system. the theme of development - substantive provisions on development - must be reflected in all aspects. CARIFORUM . . . whither goest the Caribbean and EU negotiators sought to provide agriculture? political impetus and guidance to bring about the successful conclusion of the EPA negotiations. However four main challenges, to be resolved in 2007, In the context of the situation in remained. These are: the nature of agriculture in 2006 and the implications commitments within the EPA (region- for its future development, two wide or at the level of the individual perspectives are worthy of highlighting CARIFORUM States); the negotiation and demand that considered attention be

24 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture paid to their resolution3. One is that the preferential trade arrangements. This Caribbean needs to develop mechanisms raises a pertinent question as to what that anticipate future scenarios while would have been the situation and simultaneously developing adequate actions in the sugar industry had the EU responses and safeguards to position maintained its original regime. Would itself competitively, to ensure sustainable the industries have been self-driven to levels of food to meet the current and define development plans that would future needs of its people, and to protect lead to their improved efficiencies over or find alternatives for their livelihoods time? which are directly or indirectly linked to agriculture. More importantly - whither The outlook raises the alert that it is goest the Caribbean agriculture? How not sufficient to isolate the situation can it or should it be directed in this of bananas and sugar from the rest of age of rapid scientific and technological agriculture. Primary agriculture in the change. What is the input of the Caribbean (as in most other countries) scientific community and research has not expanded significantly for a long and development - nationally and time. However, the real issue is that, over regionally? a long period, successive governments in all the countries adopted various The other perspective recalls that the policies and strategies, particularly situation with respect to the challenges macro-economic policies, that favoured of the banana industry is not new. In industrialisation and services and did fact, the issues that surrounded the not foster the sustained development debate arose more than 25 years ago and transformation of agriculture. The in relation to what the region needed more visible common thread was the to do with bananas, sugar or any other guaranteed access to protected markets traditional agricultural commodity. The for a few commodities among the central point reinforces the notion that receiving countries. Even with sound agriculture was and continues to be a policies and strategies, agriculture will ‘crisis industry’. Every time Caribbean not be developed unless there is a strong sugar and bananas are threatened in the political and institutional commitment, protected markets, the Caribbean region reflected through the allocation and raises its arms in protest, with a flurry of effective use of increased financial and diplomatic efforts to resolve the problem. human resources. The series of regional When the markets are not threatened, plans, starting with the Regional Food the governments continue with business Plan in the 1970s, have produced few as usual - no change in policies, no or zero results in the sector, precisely efforts (or very little) to modernize or because of the insufficient commitment make these sectors more productive, of resources by the governments. The market-driven and less dependent on development of US and EU agriculture

3 Edited and adapted from contributions on the FAO Barbados Ofﬁce online forum; Judith-Ann Francis (CTA) and Dowlat Budhram (IICA).

25 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 has been due largely to huge financial For the Fiscal year 2006-2007, the commitments by those governments, GoJ increased its allocation for sustained over many, many years. The agricultural projects by J$4.1 million, most recent Plan – the Jagdeo Initiative to a total of J$1.73 billion. This – must actively recognise and make increase facilitated increased spending full use of the lessons derived from on crop and livestock production the Caribbean and the EU and US related assistance, R&D and farmer experiences if it is to be successful. training. In June, it again zero-rated a number of agricultural items from the 16.5% General Consumption ‘If we fail to find money to Tax (GCT). The allocation of J$250 invest in agriculture, it will million from the National Insurance not be very long before we Fund to support loans to farmers will be forced to find far at single digit interest rates and the much more money to deal Bank of Nova Scotia/Development with the consequences of Bank of Jamaica launch of an our neglect’ agricultural development facility also reflected the high priority accorded Mr. Charlesworth Samuels, Minister to agricultural development in that of Agriculture, Antigua and Barbuda, country. Indeed, national lobbying 17 October by the media (Gleaner Newspaper) under its Editors Forum theme “Reclaiming Agriculture” and the The situation in agriculture, its apparent Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) lack of positioning within national played a leading role in these positive development priorities, issues of food outcomes. This is also in keeping security and price stability and the general with a three-year rolling Agricultural need to increase productive capacity in Development Strategy (2005-2008), agriculture became even more pressing the objectives of which are to in the context of the influx of visitors contribute to sustainable growth and expected in the region for the 2007 development through employment, Cricket World Cup. The general response export earnings and food security; was calls for ‘long term policy’, more to halt the decline of the sector; ‘affirmative action’, more definitive ‘road to restore levels of productivity; to maps’, and ‘master development plans’ promote expansion of products with both at the national and regional levels. viable markets; to promote agro- This was essential to attract investment, industries, and to provide meaningful stimulate agribusiness and reinvigorate livelihoods, especially for young the agriculture potential to enhance food people in rural areas. security, reduce poverty and position the sector towards sustainable development. The T&T government launched its In this regard, the responses of the public-private sector led investment Governments of Jamaica (GoJ) and National Agri-Business Development T&T were commendable. Programme to contribute to a

26 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture “significant reduction in rising food earnings. prices, create thousands of jobs Antigua and Barbuda espoused and obtain food security as early as a renewed vision that promotes next year”. The strategic framework agriculture as “a vibrant and is to significantly expand farming dynamic sector, driven by small potential mainly at the level of and medium-scale commercially small and medium-sized farms and oriented competitive agro-business a small number of large farms of enterprises, guaranteeing food over 100 acres. The Government security nationally, while capitalizing agreed to provide the private sector on niche markets externally, with with TT$172 million to implement high quality products, produced by the programme through TTABA. environmentally conscious farmers This is in keeping with Trinidad and agro-processors”. and Tobago’s plans to redevelop its agriculture within the framework Dominica’s agricultural development of the National 20/20 Vision Plan. process is being guided by a The programmed interventions redefinition of a vision for the for addressing core constraints are food, agriculture and natural contained within the 5-year National resources system that consistently Medium Term Investment Plan with provides safe and nutritious food, overall objectives to increase farm generates high incomes through a profitability, strengthen Marketing wide spectrum of innovative and Systems and Linkages to Demand competitive business activities and Centres, and improve international makes positive contributions to rural competitiveness. prosperity, poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability. This is All countries participated in the UN- in keeping with the national Medium FAO led development of National Term Growth and Social Protection Medium Term Investment Programmes Strategy (MTGSPS) that sets the (NMTIPs) with the subsequent crafting course and direction for Dominica’s of Bankable Investment Projects (BIPs). economy over the next five years Several countries also engaged in reviews and outlines the macro-economic and/or reformulation of agricultural framework within which agriculture policy and strategic plans in 2006. These must be repositioned. are highlighted below: In Grenada, the policies which the The Barbados 2005-2025 National government proposes to implement are Strategic Plan features agriculture as directed at modernizing the sector to being of great economic and social make it more efficient and competitive. importance, with a critical role in A strategic framework has been ensuring that an acceptable balance developed for removing the identified is achieved in terms of food imports constraints and achieving the desired and domestic food production objectives. The strategic framework and enhancing foreign exchange for addressing the constraints

27 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 targets eight areas: institutional The Saint Lucia National modernization; research development Development Policy for Agriculture, (R&D) and transfer; investment and recently completed, emphasizes credit; trade and market development the need to increase the efficiency and promotion; new and value- and competitiveness of agriculture; added products and development; promote the adoption of improved/ natural resource management; appropriate technological packages; infrastructure improvement; and expand and diversify the agricultural, disaster management. forestry, and fisheries base and increase value-added by promoting In Guyana, in the absence of a agro-industrial development. specific single agricultural policy, Modernization of the legislative the National Development and policy framework for optimal Strategy (NDS) 2001-2010 Policy agricultural production and trade is Framework has outlined a strategy also critical. of agricultural diversification as one of the primary means of increasing Saint Vincent and the Grenadines rural incomes, employment and initiated a revision of its 1997-2006 foreign exchange, and reducing Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries rural poverty. This strategy endorses Strategic Plan for Agricultural a focus on production of non- Diversification and Development. traditional commodities for local and The revised document will focus export markets, thus expanding the on reducing risk in new investment agricultural base of the economy. activities. The ‘new’ agriculture will be developed on a policy platform For St. Kitts and Nevis, the July 2005 of agriculture diversification around decision to cease the production of bananas. The policy points towards sugar for export under the EU/ACP the modernization and enhanced Sugar Protocol Agreement – a three competitiveness of the agricultural century long tradition - was among sector to achieve growth and the most momentous decisions ever development objectives. made in the country. This has created a medium to longer term challenge to In Suriname, a five–year Medium provide significant opportunities to Term Plan targets the agricultural reconfigure the economy to become sector as one of prime importance, as more productive, responsive and reflected in the Agricultural Support competitive. In this regard, government Programme (ASP). The priority areas policy is to significantly increase non- for investments in the ASP include sugar agriculture production in a water and other infrastructure competitive and sustainable manner rehabilitation and management, through the development of farmers. development of credit facilities to Production will be market led and the support private sector investments penetration of new markets will be an in processing and agro-industry, area of focus. investments to expand production,

28 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture raise productivity levels, and enhance the Summit of the Americas Agriculture health and safety standards in the Agenda 2015, the UN FAO Food Security sector. It is envisaged that the free Programme and the UN Millennium movement of goods and services Development Goals (MDGs), especially and the open sky policy will provide Goals 1, 3, 7 and 8. considerable opportunities to further develop the fruit, vegetable and The Caribbean needs to mobilise its ornamental and flower production collective support for the sustained for export. development of the ‘new’ agriculture. Such mobilization is not impossible, The development challenges to the and has been done in other areas, food, agriculture and natural resources which have less long term development system can be categorized as macro- impact in terms of benefits to the wider economics, natural resources and the economy and society, including income environment, commodity production distribution effects. What agriculture and marketing, agro-industry and and indeed, at this point in time, the institutional issues. These are common Jagdeo Initiative needs is an equal level across the Caribbean. However, the of genuine attention, time, speed, effort, coincidence of the national policy goals resources and commitment as that with regional and hemispheric initiatives mobilised for the preparations to host the provides for a guarantee of support 2007 Cricket World Cup. Such a regional on the regional and hemispheric front. response would send a powerful signal Indeed, opportunities exist within some that agriculture is indeed, an important, five areas for countries to benefit from investment-worthy and strategic sector regional, hemispheric and international for the region’s integration process, partnerships with OECS, through its growth prospects and sustainable Agriculture Plan, with the CARICOM- development and high on the agenda of led Jagdeo Initiative, the Caribbean the region’s development priorities. Fisheries Regional Mechanism (CRFM),

29 The state of agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean in 2006 IV. Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006

IICA’s contribution to the actions, as well as other related activities repositioning of agriculture and at the national level. Notwithstanding rural life several efforts to develop information systems in agriculture, this system is A collaborative effort between UN the ﬁrst such mechanism of its kind ECLAC and IICA as the main executing and one which is designed to meet the agencies of the CTA-funded project: information requirements of the ‘new’ Building a Caribbean Agricultural agriculture. It emphasizes the capture Monitoring and Evaluation Information of both quantitative and qualitative System (MEAgrISys) was initiated in information to record, measure and early 2006. This project responds to (a) evaluate the contributions made by each the Ministerial Agreement of Guayaquil of the countries towards alleviating some (August, 2005), which endorsed the need of the constraints faced by the sector for developing an information system to thus providing a more comprehensive follow-up and measure progress towards assessment of the situation and meeting the objectives of the Agro Plan performance of agriculture. Its and the Jagdeo Initiative and (b) the primary goal is to lead the progressive demands and recommendations for a and systematic improvement of the functional and responsive information decision-making process for agriculture system in agriculture that emerged from and rural life through timely and the previous above-mentioned regional reliable information.

31 Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 In 2006, the project conducted three general, initially through the preparation regional workshops with participation of a comprehensive regional report on from 11 national Ministries of the Performance and State of Agriculture Agriculture from across the region and and Rural Life in the Caribbean (S&O) the major regional, hemispheric and in 2007. global partner organisations involved in agriculture and rural development Knowledge management in agriculture in the region. As a result of these and was also improved through the continued other project activities, the AgroPlan management of the Caribbean Regional and the AgroMatrix, which form the Agricultural Policy Network (CaRAPN) base for the information system and website - www.carapn.net. Through this which illustrate the renewed concept of website, information on policy-related agriculture and rural life, were actively development, issues and initiatives, promoted and hence became more and general information of critical widely understood. There was a growing importance to agriculture is documented acceptance of the AgroMatrx as a and made more accessible to stakeholders. good tool to (a) conceptualize national, It is the only source of detailed and regional and hemispheric agricultural continuous information on the Jagdeo and rural development policies and Initiative. One of IICA’s strengths has strategies, (b) develop interventions always been the continuous circulation aimed at addressing specific issues of critical information on agriculture (including diversification, promotion of to enable better-informed decision competitive clusters and raising growth making. For the Jagdeo Initiative, which and incomes in the sector, and rural was still relatively new in the region, prosperity), and (c) promote linkages the dissemination of information was a among the interrelated elements of the focus of the two issues of the AgriView system, such as with agro-tourism, agro- newsletter in 2006. These issues forestry, agriculture and health. featured the major global mandates for agricultural development that need to Implementing the project has led to be well known and understood by all wider consensus for a proper functioning stakeholders, including the AgroMatrix, agricultural information system for the major responses at the regional measuring progress of regional (Jagdeo and sub-regional levels to revitalize Initiative) and hemispheric (Agro agriculture and a summary of the Plan 2015) commitments. It has also essential aspects as they relate to five sensitized national authorities to the need of the 10 Key Binding Constraints. to establish the necessary infrastructure One issue of In a Nutshell on Youth to collect the data and information, in Agriculture was also published to including the need for closer liaison acknowledge the critical importance of between the Ministerial Delegate and the youth for both revitalising and sustaining Information Units. IICA’s involvement in agriculture in the Caribbean and thus this project will contribute substantially encourage the agricultural community to knowledge management, both within to support development initiatives of the Institute and for agriculture in and for youth.

32 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Over the years, the Caribbean Week of Marine and Agricultural Resources into Agriculture (CWA) has provided the the Future. The major events at the best opportunity for the stakeholders of Bahamas CWA were conferences on the region to meet, dialogue and achieve agro-biotechnology, agriculture in the consensus on issues and initiatives that media, youth in agriculture, Alliance impact on and will assist in advancing workshop, where the topic of agro- the sector in the region. It also provides bioenergy was introduced as a potential the opportunity for producers around development option for some countries the region to showcase the fruits of in the region, and a trade show, which their labour to a regional audience at included a variety of seafood. the Trade Show and Exhibition. The CWA continues to be one of IICA’s The Institute provided the Ministry of contributions towards the promotion of Agriculture of St. Kitts and Nevis with a agriculture and rural life in the Caribbean. comprehensive Strategy and Work Plan to In 2006, the CWA was held in the modernize, diversify and reposition non- Bahamas under the theme: Sustaining sugar agriculture and the rural economy.

Promoting trade and the competitiveness of agribusiness

IICA’s Caribbean Regional Agribusiness Programme supports the establishment of policies for agribusiness development in the region. The programme also focuses on the facilitattion of opportunities for greater investment in agribusiness and provides capacity building and other support services to achieve these. The institute provides support to the operation of the Caribbean Agribusiness Association (CABA).

…Enabling Environment

Several countries of the ECS and the which were provided with New Draft Bahamas were assisted in their efforts Regulations (84 provisions) and New to define a new policy and legislative Draft Uniform Bye-Laws (60 sections), framework for the positioning of designed to improve economic organizations and individuals towards competitiveness. The Department achieving competitiveness in their of Cooperatives in the Bahamas was enterprises. These included the also provided with an HRD strategy Government of the Bahamas and eight and strengthened in its capacity to fishers/farmers/service cooperatives, support and regulate farmer and fisher

33 Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 organizations in tandem with the Ministry The Institute also supported the of Agriculture. The assistance provided planning, member outreach and AGM to Dominica towards the development processes of the Caribbean Agribusiness of a revised national policy for agriculture Association (CABA). Consultations were resulted in the preparation of a held with CABA Chapters in Antigua- comprehensive Situation and Outlook for Barbuda and Guyana with a view to the sector and a draft Dominica National increasing participation in CABA and Agricultural Policy Framework 2007-2025 accessing CABA-MIF funds. for further dialogue and refinement in 2007. During 2006, the Institute assessed 16 associations and networks in three IICA also designed and implemented a OECS countries in relation to readiness Gap Survey in six OECS Member States for modernization and competitiveness. regarding the approval, implementation and These included farmers’ and fishers’ enforceability status of draft harmonized organizations in Saint Lucia, farmers’ policies, legislation, regulations and organisations and an agrotourism protocols. A list of Fiscal Incentives for venture in St. Kitts and Nevis and Agro-enterprises was drafted and presented farmers’ and fishers’ cooperatives and to the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. the National League of Cooperatives in Public and private sector officials in three the Bahamas. countries (the Bahamas, St. Kitts and Nevis and Saint Lucia) were sensitised IICA identified six CIDA bursaries to the importance of strengthening the for young agriculturists, members of policy, legislative and regulatory framework the CAFY, from Antigua-Barbuda, for national competitiveness. Dominica, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago who gained new skills and The Institute initiated discussions with the knowledge in multi-media technologies Caribbean Association of Industry and through a two-week programme Commerce (CAIC) regarding increased conducted by Media-21 Ltd., Trinidad, collaboration with the Institute in promoting coordinated with the CABA Secretariat. improved attention to the Agricultural and Rural sectors with emphasis on SMEs. Over 140 entrepreneurs benefited from 8 training and educational sessions in Agribusiness. …Capacity Development

Various associations and their members, …Commercialization including the Department of Cooperatives in the Bahamas, the Chamber of A strategy for increasing GAP Certiﬁcation Agriculture and the Pork Association and and Business Skills Development for Pork Cooperative, in Saint Lucia, beneﬁted farmers was prepared for Saint Lucia’s from strategic planning support for better Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and agribusinesses. Fisheries and business plans with

34 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture financial projections were developed intensified with the Caribbean Export for two Saint Lucian agro-enterprises Development Agency (CEDA) with a managed by rural youth and women, view to integrating and strengthening with a view to attracting new investment. market penetration by the regional hot These are: KAMCS Bottled Coconut pepper industry. Water (youth) and Olivia Felicien’s Farm (rural woman). …Agrotourism linkages IICA provided guidance to financial institutions in Saint Lucia and St. Kitts Under the regional OAS/IICA project and Nevis and encouraged them to “Strengthening of the Tourism Sector increase their annual loan contributions through the Development of Linkages to small and medium-sized enterprises with the Agricultural Sector in the (SMEs). An Agribusiness Credit Caribbean”, inventory determination Risk Appraisal Instrument was also and market studies were completed in developed for Antigua. Further, seven countries: Barbados, Dominica, following a three-day visit to local firms Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and producers in Suriname, a strategy Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago. for increased domestic and CSME trade These served as background material for in agriculture products was presented the production of a DVD documenting for implementation by the Suriname the various experiences in agrotourism private sector and ministries. throughout the region.

In 2006, the Institute initiated relationships Several seminars introducing agro- with the Regional and International Credit tourism were also held. The project Union System in an effort to facilitate c r e a t e d a w e b s i t e f o r t h e C a r i b b e a n increased access by the rural poor to Agro-Trade Network which can be sustainable ﬁnancial services and to accessed via http://www.caribbean- increase investments in agriculture and agro-trade-network.com. The website agribusinesses. Discussions were initiated provides an online exchange for towards the development of a co-operation producers and buyers of food and non- agreement with the World Council of food agri-products and services. Credit Unions and the OAS Staff Federal Credit Union for partnering with IICA A national strategy and action plan for in promoting rural prosperity and food Agrotourism in Barbados was developed security. As a follow-up to this action, in a multi-stakeholder workshop hosted 10 leading credit unions were sensitized by IICA in collaboration with the to increasing social development, skills Ministry of Agriculture and Rural training and loan funding for rural and Development and the Ministry of agro-enterprises. Tourism. In St. Kitts and Nevis, IICA developed a Living Sugar Museum Under the Caribbean Transformation Concept which was presented to programme, co-operation was Ministry of Tourism.

35 Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 Strengthening agricultural health and food safety systems

IICA’s Caribbean Regional Agricultural Health and Food Safety (AHFS) Programme supports the national and regional programmes that further strengthen administrative capacities, legislative and regulatory frameworks as well as upgrade the capacities of ahfs personnel and other professionals, to understand and respond to issues that arise.

During 2006, agricultural health and food their absence, they are not able to make safety personnel from all 14 countries in an input. the region participated in four meetings (January 30–February 2, March 27-31, There has been a general improvement June 26-29 and October 9–13) of the in the understanding of SPS issues and World Trade Organization Committee the rights and obligations under the on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures WTO/SPS Agreement. held in Geneva Switzerland. Attendance at these meetings was made possible through Several countries have established funding under IICA’s SPS Initiative of the Enquiry Points / Notification Americas. Authorities in compliance with the SPS Agreement. Prior to the Initiative, attendance of capital- based personnel at the SPS Committee Countries have established multi- meetings was minimal with only a few agency/-sector National SPS countries sending representatives to some Committees, National Agricultural of the meetings. Since its inception, the Health and Food Safety Committees Initiative has had significant impact and or otherwise have set up or improved participating countries have reported existing Food Safety Committees advances in the area of SPS. The following resulting from the increased are some of the advances: understanding of the importance of SPS issues and the need to involve Attendance at SPS Committee all stakeholders (including the private meetings has afforded countries in the sector) in the discussion. region the opportunity to participate in the discussions and have a say in Consistent attendance at the meetings the decision making process. This is has provided an invaluable opportunity significant because many decisions are for conducting bilateral meetings and taken at international fora such as the networking with counterpart officials SPS Committee that affect countries in from other countries with which the the region and, many times, because of Region trades.

36 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture …Focus on Avian Influenza poultry sector in the implementation of actions at the national and In collaboration with USDA/APHIS, regional levels. PAHO, the CARICOM Secretariat, FAO, IICA, the Caribbean Poultry Association, Risk communication. CaribVET and CIRAD, IICA held a joint Meeting on Animal Diseases Surveillance Creation of awareness among and Preparedness; Focus on Avian political leaders. Influenza in the Caribbean and a technical meeting of the CaribVET Network, the A regional Avian Influenza simulation Caribbean Chief Veterinarians/Chief exercise was conducted in Jamaica and a Public Health Veterinary Officers/Chief national exercise was held in the Dominican Environmental Health officers was held Republic. Over 80 persons, including Chief in Trinidad and Tobago, April 3-7. Over Veterinary Officers from nine CARICOM 80 persons attended from IICA Member countries, participated in the regional States, the French West Indies islands exercise. In the Dominican Republic, of Guadeloupe and Martinique, Cuba, in addition to the local veterinarians, Turks and Caicos Islands and the Cayman veterinarians from Cuba, El Salvador, Islands. Nicaragua and Haiti also participated. These activities were implemented by IICA The main objectives of the meeting were in collaboration with FAO, USDA/APHIS to review current practices employed in and the governments of the respective poultry production and marketing of live countries. birds in CARICOM and determine the best practices and standards for AI prevention In addition, technical support was and control. provided for the development of national plans for the prevention, preparedness and This was followed by a three-day emergency action for Avian Influenza for planning meeting on the development countries such as the Dominican Republic of an Avian Influenza Strategy for and Guyana. IICA’s support for combating this major exotic disease in the Hemisphere. This was held at IICA Headquarters, May …Good Agricultural Practices 2-4. The IICA AI strategy was circulated (GAPs) in July and a website on Avian Influenza was announced and can be accessed at Several workshops on Good Agricultural http://www.iica.int/AvianInfluenza/ Practices were held in Barbados, the default.asp. The strategy covers the Dominican Republic, Guyana, Saint Lucia following areas: and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, draft GAPS manuals for several products Strengthening veterinary services were developed. Further, a draft herd health management programme for small Promoting the participation of the ruminant production has been developed

37 Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 by IICA in collaboration with USDA/ (World Animal Health Organization) APHIS and the University of the West during the period December 11-22, 2006. Indies. This assessment was requested by Jamaica’s Ministry of Agriculture and Lands. The assessment was the first in the region using …Invasive Alien Species the new OIE assessment tool which is an adaptation of the Performance, Vision, IICA continues to support the Caribbean and Strategy (PVS) tool developed by Invasive Species Working Group (CISWG) IICA. The team of assessors included two through attendance and participation in auditors from the OIE, personnel from the meetings. In support of work in this IICA and persons from Jamaica’s Cabinet area, workshops were held on Mites of Office. Economic Importance (including the Coconut Palm Mite) and the Black Sigatoka Promoting the sustainable management of Disease. Technical support was provided natural resources and the environment for the creation of an operation manual for the control and eradication of Classical The Institute prepared a draft strategy Swine Fever for the Dominican Republic for the development of an agro-energy and the Regional AHFS Unit assisted Haiti programme for the Caribbean Region and in the preparation of a project document identified IICA’s role therein. A summary for fruit fly control and monitoring was presented to the Alliance workshop at the Caribbean Week of Agriculture. Agro- energy, which has the potential to create …International Standards on new job opportunities particularly for Phytosanitary Measures farmers displaced within the sugar industry and should provide opportunities to obtain A regional consultation on draft carbon credits, is one component of the International Standards on Phytosanitary ‘new’ agriculture. Measures (ISPMs) and a regional workshop on ISPM #15, Guidelines for Continued support was provided Regulating Wood Packaging Materials in to the IICA Office in Suriname in International Trade, were conducted. This the development of a strategy and was a joint activity between IICA and FAO. development project for the district of It is expected that several countries in the Moengo in the wake of the imminent region will be implementing ISPM #15 in closure of Suriname Aluminum Company the near future. (SURALCO) operations. The proposal entitled: Exploitation of Opportunities for … Veterinary Services the Sustainable Development of the People Assessment of Moengo within the Framework of the Rehabilitation of Mined-Out Bauxite A joint assessment of Jamaica’s Veterinary Lands was presented to the Ministry of Services Division, led by IICA, was Agriculture, company officials, and other conducted in collaboration with OIE stakeholders.

38 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Through its regional SRD Unit, IICA Farmer Organizations in Barbados” Data participated as a member of the Green Capture Form, the conduct of the survey Legacy Team (GLC) of Barbados, provided and holding a brainstorming meeting with technical support and developed a project the executive board of five farmer groups. proposal for greening the Fontabelle area This survey is being used to determine in Bridgetown, St. Michael. The GLC is their weaknesses and challenges, and the a subcommittee of the Barbados Legacy results will be used to develop training Programme that was preparing for the modules for the strengthening of farmer Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2007 and organizations on the island and the conduct beyond. of the training by IICA and other resource persons. Strengthening rural communities based on the territorial approach …Rural women entrepreneurs The Institute continued to assist in promoting the Rural Territorial Concept In continued support of rural women among key stakeholders, including producers in the Caribbean, IICA held governments, partners and targeted an Institutional Awareness Workshop communities. In Suriname and Guyana, (IAW) in Guyana to help strengthen the a template for the preparation of a institutional development of the Caribbean Sustainable National Rural Development Network of Rural Development Producers Policy (SNRDP) was prepared and (CANROP). Network chapters were able provided for review and possible use in to develop stakeholder analysis profiles the development of a sustainable rural and national action plans, out of which an development plan. integrated regional plan was developed. The workshop was attended by delegates from In Barbados, the Rural Development nine of CANROP’s National Chapters. Commission (RDC), in collaboration with Additionally, the delegates were trained in IICA, identified the “First Free Village” of using and managing the CANROP website Rock Hall, as an area for the application of (www.canrop.org). CANROP’s 6th the Territorial Approach for Sustainable Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held Rural Development in 2007. A plan to in conjunction with the IAW workshop support rural enterprise development and a new executive board was elected to activities in Rock Hall and to identify manage the affairs of the Network. business opportunities in heritage tourism will be developed by the Enterprise Development Committee of the RDC and …Growing young agripreneurs will be supported by IICA. Additionally, the annual CAFY IICA worked closely with the Ministry workshop was held during the CWA of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Bahamas; its recommendations in charting a programme that would included a comprehensive programme for encourage cooperative farming in reintroduction of agriculture at the primary Barbados; a “Diagnostic Assessment of and secondary school levels and a strategy

39 Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 for continued research at the national cut-flower industry. IICA has been level by National Chapters to identify included as a member of the private additional areas of interest among youth sector led industry working group to involved in the agricultural industry. advance the process. Branding of products produced by young Agripreneurs to improve marketability As part of the CWA programme, the was also recommended. The YiA In a Institute collaborated with regional and Nutshell also provided some indications international partners in mounting a of the types of opportunities that are major regional workshop to highlight available for youth to “be their own the ongoing agro-biotechnology boss”. research with potential high impact on agricultural development. The Introducing technology and innovation for the workshop also agreed on the priorities modernization of agriculture and rural life for agro-biotechnology research to assist agricultural development in the Region. During the period under review, the Institute continued its efforts to address The Regional workshop on Agricultural the Key Binding Constraint of Inadequate R&D Coordination entitled Optimizing Research and Development focusing the benefits of Research and on coordination of the Caribbean Development for enhancement of Programme for Biotechnology and the Region’s Agribusiness was held Biosafety (CPBB), support to the herbal in Tobago in May 2006 and brought business sub-sector, promotion of together the key stakeholders from organic agriculture and coordination of the Ministries of Agriculture, regional the IICA/CARDI technical cooperation and national research institutions the programme including the promotion universities, international organizations of research and development (R&D) and the private sector. The workshop networking. established a framework for R&D priority setting, the modalities for increased collaboration among regional …Agrobiotechnology research institutions via a revamped PROCICARIBE and also identified The strategy for the CPBB was completed elements of a policy framework for and two priority projects, which were agricultural R&D in the Region. identified in the needs identification and assessment exercise previously undertaken IICA strengthened its collaboration with for the Region, were prepared. The the Caribbean Research and Development Institute collaborated with the University Institute (CARDI), the University of of the West Indies in mounting a workshop the West Indies, the Caribbean Institute on the commercialization of anthurium for Industrial Research (CARIRI), the varieties improved through the application Scientific Research Council of Jamaica, of biotechnology. The regional industry the Dominican Agricultural Research stakeholders developed the strategy and Institute (IDIAF) and the Innovation plans for the rehabilitation of the popular and Biotechnology Institute (IIB), the

40 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture UNEP/GEF regional contact point and The Caribbean Herbal Business other selected major national institutions Association worked closely with its in addressing biotechnology and biosafety National Chapters, international donors and other R&D issues in the Caribbean. and other collaborators in promoting various facets of the industry throughout the Caribbean. Work continued on the … Herbal Industry development of the Caribbean Herbal Business magazine, the first edition The Institute continued its support to of which is scheduled to be issued in the development of the herbal business February 2007. The Caribbean Export sub-sector through the provision of Development Agency (CEDA) provided financial and administrative support to grant funding for the development of a the Secretariat of the Caribbean Herbal catalogue of Caribbean herbal products Business Association (CHBA) which to assist intra and extra-regional trade in is hosted in the Trinidad and Tobago these products. Office. Under this arrangement, the Pro-Invest funded project on market and technology research on herbals of …Greenhouse technology economic importance was completed. The research identified market opportunities A template on developing business and appropriate technologies for plans demonstrating the commercial developing a range of herbal products viability of introducing greenhouse and led to the completion of investment technology packages was prepared and opportunity profiles for dried herbs and used in Barbados by farmers to prepare spices, essential oils, herbal beverages investment projects. The Planning Unit and cosmeceutical products. Further, a of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural several technology briefs were developed Development of Barbados and IICA on the major product categories in the entered into an agreement to publish international trade in herbal products. the package in the form of a CD ROM In order to address the raw material and a booklet. requirements for producing these products commercially, the research A status report on IICA’s involvement in work also included the development the promotion of greenhouse technology of agronomic manuscripts and cost of was presented to the Projects Division production estimates on targeted herbal of the Caribbean Development Bank crops including Aloe vera, Mauby, (CDB), which is seeking to collaborate Ginger, Lemon grass, Noni, Seamoss, with IICA to promote greenhouse Sorrell, Sarsaparilla, Tumeric, Chadon technology in the region. A committee beni and Oregano. These investment consisting of a representative of CDB, opportunity and agronomic profiles FAO and IICA has been set up to were presented in two workshops held work collaboratively in support of the in Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana expansion and use of the technology respectively and will be made available in the Caribbean. The committee will throughout the Region. develop joint projects which are likely

41 Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 to attract funding from the CDB and of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and other sources. facilitated by Joseph Peltier, Regional Rural Development Specialist, IICA Office in Barbados, and Pilar Ramirez, Consultant …Organic Farming in Organic Farming, from the IICA Office in the Dominican Republic. The workshop The growth of the regional mechanism provided participants with the tools to for organic agriculture, the Caribbean build capacity in certification and standards, Regional Organic Agriculture Movement plant health and nutrition, pest and disease (CROAM), increased in 2006, as two management, marketing, organic seed new chapters were formed and launched production, packaging and labelling, and in Saint Lucia (HOAM) and Dominica good organic agricultural practices. (DOAM). Additionally, the Institute designed and facilitated a training workshop in improving governance structures and regularizing the Results of inter-agency membership base of the new chapters. cooperation This included a hands-on workshop for the Hewanorra Organic Agriculture Cooperation with FAO Movement (HOAM) in preparation of a project entitled Combating land IICA collaborated with FAO in the degradation through the development Secretariat of the Alliance and the Core of organic agriculture in Saint Lucia Group (appointed by the CARICOM which was submitted to the Global Conference of Heads) for the Environment Facility/Small Grants implementation of the Jagdeo Initiative Programme for funding. The project – both bodies being responsible for has been funded and is currently being l e a d i n g t h e d e v e l o p m e n t o f a g r i c u l t u r e i n implemented. the region.

Approximately 25 frontline extension IICA participated in and made a ofﬁcers from the Ministry of Agriculture, presentation at a conference entitled Forestry and Fisheries and the St. Caribbean Conference on Education for Vincent Banana Growers Association, Rural People: Food Security, Agricultural enhanced their capabilities to respond Competitiveness and Sustainable to the technological challenges of the Livelihoods, organized by the Food and agricultural sector as a result of their Agriculture Organization and UNESCO participation in a very successful workshop in Saint Lucia. The presentation entitled on Principles of Organic Farming for “Food security, agricultural competitiveness Entrepreneurs at the Anglican Pastoral and sustainable livelihoods: rurality and Centre, Kingstown, May 2-5, 2006. In sustainable livelihoods” focused on the a practical demonstration of IICA’s links between poverty and inequality programme of horizontal technical in various Caribbean Countries, an cooperation, the workshop was hosted analysis of the main poverty groups by IICA, in collaboration with the Ministry in the Caribbean, the new rurality, and

42 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture sustainable livelihoods and proposed implementation of joint projects. several critical issues for consideration in Both institutions were also mandated empowering the poor. The presentation to work together to produce an R&D will form part of the proceedings of the strategy for the Caribbean. workshop and will be available on the FAO website. CTA

Cooperation with PAHO IICA’s continued relationship with the Technical Centre for Agricultural The Joint Meeting: Animal Disease and Rural Cooperation (CTA) yielded Surveillance and Preparedness - Focus the execution of several events under on Avian Inﬂuenza (AI) in the Caribbean the IICA CTA projects in 2006. was held in collaboration with FAO These included: as well as several other regional and international agencies and institutions: - Continuation of the Contract CARICOM Secretariat (CCS), to Support the Agricultural Caribbean Poultry Association (CPA), Policy Process in the Caribbean, CaribVET Network, CIRAD, Livestock through the CaRAPN, which and Livestock Products Board (LLPB), focussed on supporting the PAHO, the French Embassy, the United Jagdeo Initiative. CaRAPN has States Department of Agriculture been providing support for the (USDA). conceptualisation, development and implementation of the Cooperation with other regional and Initiative, to contribute to international organizations the creation of an economic and business environment CARIRI that facilitates entrepreneurial activities in agribusiness. The IICA collaborated with the Caribbean project included: Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) to organize and host the ‘Pre-feasibility Studies regional workshop: Optimizing the for selected Agribusiness beneﬁts of Research and Development for Clusters in the Caribbean’ to enhancement of the Regions Agribusiness contribute to the stimulation in Tobago in May 2006. The of investment in agri- relationship is also aimed at initiating business, particularly among the dialogue to improve the linkages women and youth. between on-farm and value-added research. a workshop on ‘Dissemination of Agricultural Policy Inform- CARDI ation in the Mass Media’ which was attended by 30 IICA continued its collaboration persons, and contributed with CARDI, primarily through the to an approved relationship

43 Results of the implementation of the Regional Technical Cooperation Agenda in the Caribbean during 2006 between agriculture technicians Monitoring and Evaluation Information and the media for better media System (MEAgrISys). A special coverage of major issues page has been established for relative to the repositioning of information and updates on this agriculture in the Caribbean, project on the carapn website. with speciﬁc reference to agricultural policy issues and OAS initiatives. A special newsletter recording the presentations IICA continued its execution of the and recommendations of the Organization of American States workshop is available. (OAS)-funded project Strengthening of the Tourism Sector through the Development the AgriView and In a Nutshell of Linkages with the Agricultural Sector in publications continued to be the Caribbean. printed. UWI the carapn website www.carapn. net continued to be developed IICA collaborated with UWI and and maintained; it hosts special received its support in matters relating pages for the Jagdeo Initiative to biotechnology, including two and the MEAgrISys project. workshops and technical assistance in the development of the Caribbean - Commencement of the project: Programme for Biotechnology and Building a Caribbean Agricultural Biosafety.

44 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture V. Executive Summaries by Country

Antigua and Barbuda

Promoting trade and the and maximize market opportunities for competitiveness of agribusiness the industry.

Coordination of a meeting of the Provided technical assistance to the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Food Safety Committee Intellectual Property and Commerce in consultations on the draft Acts Office in the Ministry of Justice which will set up the necessary legal with the World Intellectual Property framework for improved agricultural Organisation (WIPO), on the steps to health and food safety systems. protect crops under the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights Increased capabilities of the Central (TRIPS) Agreement. Marketing Corporation in Safe Pesticide Use and Practices. Support to the Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Committee which develops The quarantine systems of plant, local standards for fruits and vegetable, animal and public health were assessed mainly targeted towards export. to determine their present status, plan how to move the system towards Strengthening agricultural health providing better service, and improve and food safety systems port officials’ understanding of the requirements of international plant, Inspection of bee hives and animal and human port health and determination of their health status quarantine systems. with regard to pests of economic and quarantine importance to initiate the Technical officers in the Ministry modernization process of agricultural of Agriculture were assisted to health and food safety systems. attend the World Trade Organisation Sanitary and Phytosanitary Improved the capability of the Committee meetings in Geneva. The Beekeepers Cooperative to properly capability of the country to honour manage emergencies and emerging its obligations under the agreements issues and to add value to bee products, has been improved.

45 Executive Summaries by Country Strengthening rural communities Data for a study on value-added based on the territorial approach products from small ruminants was gathered for development of a regional Provided technical support for the project in this area. launch of the Bethesda Rural Women Group, as a member of the Caribbean Support for the participation of Network of Rural Women Producers. an officer from the Ministry of Agriculture to attend workshops related The Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture to Dissemination of Software for Youth Forum received training in Managing WTO Enquiry Points and St. Lucia on the development and Need Assessment and Identification in management of projects and strategic Biotechnology. management, and participated in the Youth Policy Development Workshop held during the Caribbean Week of Promoting the sustainable Agriculture in St. Kitts. management of natural resources and the environment Provided technical support to the forum on implementing a propagation Coordination of a five-day sub-regional nursery project. workshop in vermicomposting as a means for developing inputs for organic Extension of the presence of the youth production. forum to the sister island of Barbuda, where local groups can now network Assessed requirements of the system and share experiences and improve and to determine how the Antiguan their income-earning capacities. producers can realize their potential in organic production. Support to develop a strategy for the Caribbean Agribusiness Association to Provided technical assistance to deal with praedial larceny. the Ministry of Agriculture and the Pesticides Control Board during their Pesticide Awareness Week activities in Developing human capital September.

Series of training sessions developed Representation on the National Focal for agro-processors and potential agro- Group for the Global Environment processors to improve their capability Facility which promotes the to manage viable enterprises as well as development of projects that focus on others, such as processing of animal sustainable environment management products, costing and pricing, record practices. keeping, and good manufacturing practices.

46 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Bahamas

IICA’s contribution to the Strengthening agricultural repositioning of agriculture health and food safety systems and rural life A guideline on emergency animal Through the national consultation health issues, one of IICA’s support process our clients effectively documents for agricultural health, was articulated their priorities, which formally discussed by the Ministry’s supplement and/or harmonize with professionals. the medium term plan and goal- driven strategic plans. IICA and PAHO collaborated with the national authorities in the group Decision makers were able to obtain for the Avian Inﬂuenza discussion a better idea of the scope of key and participated in its emergency issues from a regional prospective preparedness plan. and to get a ﬁrst hand view of a small sample of value added products from the region during the Caribbean Promoting sustainable management Week of Agriculture. of natural resources and the environment

Promoting trade and The use of sustainable ﬁshing competitiveness of agribusiness techniques has been promoted with the North Abaco ﬁshing cooperative in Two exhibitions organized and also collaboration with the Caribbean Food radio talk shows, and supported agri- and Nutrition Institute (CFNI). business training for members of the Bahamas Producer Association and Cooperative agents and leaders. Introducing technology and innovation for the modernization In partnership with the Bahamas of agriculture and rural life Agricultural Industrial Corporation (BAIC), support was provided for the The Ministry of Agriculture and Arts and Crafts Women Cooperative Marine Resources has concurred to for several training events. assign someone to be involved in tissue culture and biotechnology. The IICA encouraged the bottle tomato introduction of a needed improved cooperatives to consolidate and move seed production system and other their cooperatives to an improved new aspects of agriculture were processing mode. promoted.

47 Executive Summaries by Country Students and teachers from New of opportunities for them in Providence and Family Islands agriculture, including hydroponics know about the importance of and preparedness for disaster agriculture and the wide range management.

Barbados

IICA’s contribution to the and market studies in Barbados and repositioning of agriculture six other Caribbean territories, the and rural life production of videos documenting the various agrotourism experiences Contribution to the repositioning of and the hosting of related seminars the agricultural sector was possible and workshops. through: encouraging agricultural diversiﬁcation under its agrotourism A national strategy and action plan strategic area, raising awareness that for Agrotourism in Barbados was primary agriculture is only one part develop in a multi-stakeholder of an entire agri-food chain of inter- workshop co-hosted by the Ministries related activities, and promoting of Agriculture and Tourism. the modernization of the sector through the use of greenhouse Strengthening agricultural health technologies. and food safety systems

IICA helped change the negative IICA helped to establish the National cultural mindset on agriculture by Agricultural Health and Food Control hosting an exhibition “Home Grown Authority, provided tremendous and Hand Made”, highlighting the support on the National CODEX linkage and business opportunities Committee, chaired the CROSQ for agriculture and art. Regional Technical Committee on Foods and played an integral role in the preparation for Barbados’ Promoting trade and the implementation of the international competitiveness of agribusiness Wood Packaging Standard.

The Agrotourism programme with The control of the Giant African the OAS Agrotourism Project Snail was addressed and the NIPP allowed the completion of inventory for Avian Inﬂuenza was developed

48 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (in collaboration with PAHO and FAO) farming as well as detailing a plan for with the participation of IICA. trials of appropriate seed varieties for use in local greenhouse conditions.

Promoting the sustainable management of natural resources Introducing technology and and the environment innovation for the modernization of agriculture and rural life A model greenhouse was erected at AgroFest to illustrate agricultural IICA contributed to the National management practices related with Council for Science and Technology reduction of soil erosion and effective consultation on Regional Science harvesting of rain water. Technology and Innovation Policy.

IICA worked with the Green Barbados In collaboration with the Ministry Legacy Team (GBLT) on designing of Energy and the Environment, greening projects prior to and following the Institute participated in the the 2007 Cricket World Cup. Land Degradation Exhibition in the Jubilee Gardens by erecting a model greenhouse. Strengthening rural communities based on the territorial approach School gardening was encouraged with a private sector-led initiative by The “First Free Village” of Rock Hall was SuperCentre Ltd. identiﬁed as an area for the application of the Territorial Approach for Sustainable A regional fact-ﬁnding mission Rural Development for 2007. was conducted concerning Youth in Agriculture, as well as the 9th Jointly with MAR a programme was Regional Assembly of CACHE in charted that would encourage cooperative Barbados.

Dominica

IICA’s contribution to the and implement an improved policy repositioning of agriculture framework to reposition agriculture were and rural life improved, supporting the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica The capabilities of public and and the Ministry of Agriculture, private sector stakeholders to pursue Fisheries and the Environment.

49 Executive Summaries by Country A revised draft National Agricultural economic sectors is being pursued Development Policy for the by the successful implementation of Commonwealth of Dominica 2007– the OAS/IICA project Strengthening 2025 was in line with the Agro Plan of the Tourism Sector through the 2003–2015 and submitted to the Development of Linkages with the relevant ministry for scrutiny. Agriculture Sector in the Caribbean.

A regional and sub-regional dialogue to implement decisions of the OECS Strengthening agricultural health Agricultural Policy and the Jagdeo and food safety systems Initiative was supported. Towards the rationalization, Information on agricultural policy, development and upgrading of bio-prospecting, and activities of the Agricultural Health and Food Safety Institute concerning workshops and (AHFS) Systems, IICA actively seminars were provided with quarterly participated and provided administrative press releases published in various support to meetings of the National local newspapers. Sanitary and Phytosanitary Committee (NSPSC).

Promoting Trade and the IICA supported harmonizing and Competitiveness of Agribusiness rationalizing the National AHFS legislation and standards concerning IICA supported mechanisms to safe agricultural products being offered strengthen private sector involvement in to consumers in domestic and export agricultural planning and development trade in Dominica, by being appointed so as to diversify the agricultural product to serve on the National CODEX base and stabilize the decline in the Committee as Chairman. sector, including the consolidation of all agribusinesses as a single entity, the Priority areas to focus efforts and draft constitution for the establishment resources for the Division of Agriculture and operation of the Dominica with regards to Veterinary Services were Agribusiness Association (DABA identiﬁed, through assessment using the INC.), as well as the consolidation Performance, Vision and Strategy (PVS) of the Dominica Foundation of tools developed by IICA and OIE. Herbal Researchers and Practitioners (DFHRP) and the Dominica Herbal As a result of the initiative of the Business Association (DHBA) with the Americas Programme, stakeholders local chapter of CHBA. in the agriculture and related sectors have increased their understanding A coordinated approach to the a n d a d o p t i o n o f t h e o p e r a t i o n s development of sustained linkages and requirements of international between agricultural and other setting bodies.

50 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Promoting the sustainable Strengthening rural communities management of natural resources and the environment The finalization of the Integrated Development Programme for the Carib Territory was possible due to IICA’s IICA supported the capacity-building support and guidance. efforts of Clemson University in applications of biotechnology for conservation and utilization of Dominica’s rich biodiversity. Introducing technology and innovation for the modernization of A consultation on Biodiversity agriculture and rural life Prospecting and Access to Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge A first Business Labs Training of conducted jointly with Archbold Trainers Workshop focusing on Small Tropical Research and Education and Medium Enterprise Development Centre (ATREC) on behalf of with emphasis on Rural Tourism with Clemson University improved the the National Association of Youth in awareness of the participants on the Agriculture (NAYA) and the Young political, legal and technical issues. Americas Business Trust (YABT) improved capacities and capabilities Twenty-eight participants from public, of youth. private, traditional healers, indigenous and non-governmental organizations In collaboration with the EU increased their knowledge towards Agricultural Diversification Programme acceptance and participation in new administrative and financial support technologies and processes adapted was facilitated for a one-week Technical for expanding business opportunities Exchange visit to access information in the sustainable utilization of and technologies of organic production, Dominica’s genetic resources and processing, marketing and certification traditional/indigenous knowledge. in the Dominican Republic.

Dominican Republic

Contribution to the repositioning of outlook of agriculture and rural life in agriculture and rural life the Dominican Republic.

Studies were carried out on the true Assistance was provided to the contribution of the agricultural sector Steering Committee to coordinate to the GNP and on the state and the agricultural sector reform and

51 Executive Summaries by Country modernization process, in conjunction programs offered by the Clusters with participating institutions Network, promoted by the National and working groups. During the Competitiveness Council and the process, a policy framework for the Dominican Agribusiness Board agricultural sector, an institutional (JAD). reform proposal, and a ﬁrst draft of the plan of medium and short-term measures were prepared. Strengthening agricultural health and food safety systems Progress was made in elaborating a proposal for a framework law for Support was provided for developing the agricultural and rural sector, and the institutional capacity to apply various draft acts were prepared on SPS and a contribution was made animal health protection, plant health to allow the country to participate protection, and amendment of the in the meetings of the WTO SPS Seeds Act. Committee

Legislation on the protection of The regulations concerning the the producer of new varieties registration of veterinary medicinal of plants was promoted and the products and establishments was country’s accession to the respective elaborated and approved by Decree international agreement (UPOV) 521-06. was ratified. The project for the control and elimination of classical swine fever was Promoting trade and the prepared and is being applied by the competitiveness of agribusiness DIGEGA; also, support was provided for the campaign against this disease. Studies were made for the rice, garlic, onion, milk, pork and beef agri-food A proposal for the Emergency chains preparedness and response plan for highly pathogenic avian influenza in Support was given to the the Dominican Republic was drawn entrepreneurs participating in the up and, together with the Livestock First Agro-exports Platform; two- Directorate, the first simulation exercise thirds of them continue exporting. of the introduction of avian influenza In addition, a study was completed in the Dominican Republic was carried on the country’s exportable out. agricultural supply. IICA contributed to the organization Cooperation was provided of two bilateral technical meetings for the organization of direct between Haiti and the Dominican technical assistance and training Republic to discuss aspects of the

52 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture emergency preparedness and response for organic agriculture is based. plan for highly pathogenic avian inﬂuenza. Strengthening rural communities Two workshops were held on based on the territorial approach Registration of Veterinary Medicinal Products and Establishments and Support was provided for the 100 veterinarians were trained as international seminar: Gender and veterinary establishment managers Sustainable Rural Development in Latin (“regentes”) accredited by the Ministry America and the Caribbean and the of Agriculture. elaboration of several project proﬁles.

Four workshops were held on regional In the context of the agricultural sector plans for response to animal health reform and modernization process, the emergencies, in which 120 technicians Rural Development Consortiums were and farmers, leaders of the Health designed; these are mixed executing Defence Groups, were trained agencies of a territorial nature.

Promoting the sustainable Introducing technology and management of natural resources and innovation for the modernization of the environment agriculture and rural life

With the support of IICA, the country 70% of the project: Non-destructive moved ahead in the process to be methods and molecular markers for included on the European Union’s list the determination of appropriate dates of third countries. for harvesting five varieties of avocado pear has been completed; it is being The National Organic Agriculture executed by IDIAF, and financed by Programme and the National Organic FONTAGRO. Agriculture Council were reinforced through the establishment of the Support was provided for a seminar on National Register of Certification agricultural extension, the training of Agencies and Operators, as well as trainers, and the engineering of training training, technical assistance, and devices. horizontal cooperation. Cooperation was provided to several With the support of GTZ and the institutions, such as IIBI, IDIAF EU, two pre-audits were made of the and ACADEMIAS to enhance their organic agriculture control system, capabilities in the area of biotechnology and the resulting recommendations and biosafety practices, and a proposal led to modifications in the presidential to establish the Biosafety Commission decrees on which the legal framework was prepared.

53 Executive Summaries by Country Grenada

IICA’s Contribution to the through effective functioning of the repositioning of agriculture National Agricultural Health and and rural life Food Safety (NAHFS) Committee.

Constituents of the Alliance for Farmers’ capability to produce safe Sustainable Development of foods enhanced through training and Agriculture and the Rural Milieu (The follow-up actions provided, relative Alliance) were strengthened/revitalized, to Good Agricultural Practices and national authorities supported in (GAPs). their efforts to alleviate some of the Key Binding Constraints to Grenada’s agricultural development. Promoting the sustainable management of natural resources Increased agriculture sector and the environment stakeholders’ understanding of the Jagdeo Initiative and its implication Increased prospects to obtain the for the development of Grenada’s necessary funds for implementation agricultural and rural sector. of a Sustainable Land Management (SLM) Demonstration Project Proposal, through efforts of the Promoting trade and the national SLM Committee on which competitiveness of agribusiness IICA is represented.

Increased capability of the national chapter of the Caribbean Agribusiness Strengthening rural communities, Association (CABA) to attract external based on the territorial approach funds for implementing developmental projects. Youths in the rural St. Andrew’s parish have increased their lobbying power Improved trade competitiveness of the through their decision to join the Grenada local herbal industry through acquisition Agricultural Forum for Youth (GAFY). of quality packaging material by the Grenada Network of Rural Women Improved quality of agro-processed Producers (GRENROP). products, through training in and implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). Strengthening agricultural health and food safety systems Agriculture/tourism linkage strengthened, through facilitation of dialogue between Improved coordination of agricultural hoteliers and farmers, and initiative taken health and food safety activities, to plan a food festival.

54 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Introducing technology and Producers (CANROP), known as innovation for the modernization GRENROP, is better positioned to of agriculture and rural life access external funds to implement a project proposal to acquire modern The national chapter of the farm equipment for establishing a Caribbean Network of Rural Women Farm Labour Company.

Guyana

IICA’s contribution to the and heard her presentation “The repositioning of agriculture Fruit Sector: An Example of a and rural life Strategic Approach to Agricultural Diversiﬁcation in El Salvador”. Implementation strategies for the Jagdeo Initiative were discussed with national authorities and authorities Strengthening agricultural health participated in international events and food safety systems that contributed to the repositioning of agriculture. Improvements were made in quality, production levels and marketing as an ultimate goal, as a result of Promoting trade and the a joint effort with the Ministry of competitiveness of agribusiness Agriculture (MoA) and private- sector entities. Activities to this effect The Rural Women’s Network (RWN) included disease surveys, monitoring improved capabilities in hydroponics and surveillance, the identiﬁcation and strategic planning, as well as and preparation of production and business and skills training. It hosted marketing standards for a number jointly with IICA the Caribbean of products, and training in Good Network of Rural Women Producers Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and (CANR P) Annual General Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Meeting. Points (HACCP).

Participants in a seminar on Assistance was provided in Agricultural Diversiﬁcation in investigating a poultry “stunted Guyana exchanged experiences with growth” syndrome which was IICA Specialist in Competitiveness affecting the local poultry industry.

55 Executive Summaries by Country Promoting the Sustainable communities - Mainstay, Tapakuma Management of Natural Resources and Capoey was formed as part of and the Environment the Kellogg funded project.

Under the Kellogg Foundation-funded Lake Communities Project, Supporting Introducing technology and the Expansion of Income Generation innovation for the modernization Activities in the Lake Communities of agriculture and rural life in Guyana, signiﬁcant efforts were made in the area of the sustainable Over 200 participants, including management of natural resources. women and youth, were trained and several have started to produce The hydroponics vegetable production and market vegetables after training programme promoted the use of workshops and expansion activities discarded material, such as cans, carried out in conjunction with bottles and paddy shells, which would the St. Stanislaus Training Centre otherwise cause pollution. (SSTC).

IICA was involved in transferring Strengthening rural communities technology, using botanicals for the based on the territorial approach control of the Acoushi ant, Atta sp., a leaf-cutting ant. A Neem-based The Tri-Lakes Farmers’ Association product was used and farmers were comprising members of the three trained in the formulation of baits.

Haiti

Contribution to the repositioning Participation in a high-level working of agriculture and rural life group, under the leadership of the Minister of Agriculture, to deﬁne a Elaboration of the 2006-2010 National state policy on Haitian agriculture. Technical Cooperation Agenda in collaboration with strategic partners from both the public and the private Promoting trade and the sectors. competitiveness of agribusiness

Preparation of a report on the situation Facilitation of the participation of and perspectives of agriculture and a large Haitian delegation in the rural life in Haiti. celebration of the 6th Caribbean Week

56 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture of Agriculture. The presence of the distribution 5000 Brocap traps to the Haitian private sector stood out at coffee growers’ cooperatives. The the trade fair organized during this project: Integrated Control of the event. Coffee Berry Borer is financed by the European Union (EU). Technical assistance to the Ministry of Tourism to incorporate agro- Establishment of a centre for mass tourism into the tourism master plan production of healthy banana tree being prepared for Haiti. saplings using seedlings resulting from stem fragments and training Support for increasing exports to of about 50 banana producers and the United States, through two talks MARNDR technical personnel in offered to members of the public this new technology. and private sectors by IICA experts from the Miami Office. Start-up of a national information and communication strategy on avian influenza, with the financial support Strengthening agricultural health of USAID. and food safety systems Logistical support for the Vaccination of 600,000 pigs and participation of Haiti in the WHO implementation of the national meetings and also to the Haitian SPS epidemiological monitoring network committee. under the project: Control of Classical Swine Fever, financed by USAID. Promoting the sustainable management of natural resources Technical assistance to MARNDR and the environment for the elaboration of two project documents for control of pests, Organization, in partnership with such as fruit flies and fire ants. These CATIE, of a workshop on Carib projects have been prepared with the trees, with the aim of preparing a participation of national specialists manual on the trees of the Caribbean and IICA experts based in the region. Caribbean region. A seminar on Good Agricultural Introduction of biological pest Practices for students of the Faculties management and the use of trapping of Agriculture of the CACHE in the integrated control of the coffee network. berry borer; installation of nine small rural laboratories for the production Organization of workshops on the of parasitoids in the country’s management of risks and disasters for principal coffee-producing areas and beneficiaries of the project: Support for

57 Executive Summaries by Country Victims of Flooding in the Rural Areas Introduction of 23 improved of Gonaïves, ﬁnanced by USAID. species of vegetables in ﬁve rural communities where the programme ProHuerta is being developed Strengthening rural communities in collaboration with Argentine based on the territorial approach cooperation in Haiti.

A US$15,000 credit fund was set Consolidation of a programme to up for 600 rural women under the improve family poultry production project PWOTOKOL, ﬁnanced by by distributing more than 2,000 the Kellogg Foundation. Other groups chickens to farms. have received material to help them modernize their agricultural equipment and increase their productivity. Introducing technology and innovation for the modernization Distribution of a large amount of mango of agriculture and rural life plants of the “Madame Fransik” variety under a programme for reforestation Rehabilitation of two small irrigation with fruit trees addressed particularly at areas, totalling 715 hectares. young people and women. Reinforcement of associations of Participation of around 30 rural women water users with training seminars on in training sessions on fruit processing. irrigation water management.

Jamaica

IICA’s contribution to the WTO/SPS negotiations, and crafting repositioning of agriculture of its Sustainable Rural Development and rural life policy framework.

IICA has been collaborating with Repositioning the country’s the Ministry of Agriculture in agricultural sector has meant actions its priority investment programs, like a National Consultation to such as the Veterinary Services, determine Jamaica’s priority issues as Crop (Sweet Potato) Research and well as facilitate the drafting of IICA’s Development, participation in Medium Term Plan; participation in

58 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture the Dialogue Forum series convened With the OIE and the MOA&L, by the Planning Institute of Jamaica IICA assisted in an assessment of (PIOJ) and active support for events the Veterinary Division. that promote the sector.

The institute facilitated the Strengthening rural communities participation of MOA&L and the based on the territorial approach private sector in the implementation of the OAS funded project The promotion of integrated rural Strengthening of the Tourism development based on the territorial Sector through the development of approach focused on assisting two Linkages with the Agricultural Sector speciﬁc communities, namely Elim in the Caribbean. in St Elizabeth and Charles Town in Portland: considering mainly training workshops in organization, conﬂict Promoting trade and the management and institutional competitiveness of agribusiness building.

In collaboration with the Ministries A detailed review of the Jamaica of Agriculture and Lands and Network of Rural Women Producers Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, (JNRWP) performance of the credit the trade and competitiveness of scheme was completed and their agribusiness was promoted via the abilities were strengthened in business Clearing House Forum which focuses management and soap-making. on private sector involvement in the trade negotiation process. Introducing technology and innovation for the modernization of agriculture and rural life Strengthening agricultural health and food safety systems To catalyze the Priority Investment Programme of the Ministry’s To assist in strengthening the Agricultural Development Strategy agricultural health and food safety in the area of Root Crop Production, systems, IICA participated with the IICA supported the programming of Ministry of Agriculture and Lands funds under an agreed Sweet Potato and other agencies in a real-time Technology Research and Development simulation exercise of an outbreak of Fund (Ministry of Agriculture, the Highly Pathogenic Avian Inﬂuenza Christian Potato Growers Cooperative (HPAI). Association and CARDI).

59 Executive Summaries by Country St. Kitts and Nevis

Promoting trade and the well as printed material on Avian competitiveness of agribusiness Inﬂuenza and Food Safety tips.

IICA conducted an extensive Various stakeholders acquired consultation with stakeholders on St. improved level of knowledge from Kitts and developed an Agricultural workshops that were conducted with Development Strategy and an the assistance of FAVA/CA on the Implementation Plan for the Ministry management of ﬁre ants. of Agriculture.

Several agrotourism initiatives were Promoting the sustainable supported including: hosting of a management of natural resources visioning session for stakeholders of and the environment the Fothergills Heritage Village and meetings were convened with leaders IICA supported the work of the of producers’ organizations and the National Biodiversity Committee tourism sector. and the development of the National Biosafety Framework and assisted in Various components and activities of conducting a pre-feasibility study for the OAS/IICA Project, Strengthening agro-energy as a partial option for of the tourism sector through the renewable energy. development of linkages with the agricultural sector were implemented. Strengthening rural communities based on the territorial approach Strengthening agricultural health and food safety systems IICA empowered various groups both individually and collectively, IICA collaborated with the Republic including members of the Fahie’s of China in agro-processing training Women Agricultural Producers who and introduced a food safety/ participated in several workshops, HAACP module. project formulation and effective fund raising. This included a EC$25,000 Dialogue was facilitated within the grant to procure equipment and other Agricultural Health and Food Safety inputs to enhance their productive (AHFS) Committee. capacity.

Information was distributed through Collaborated with the Youth Skills radio and television programs as Department in the implementation

60 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture of the UNESCO sponsored project, Supported the launching of the Youth in Business. Participants were Nevis Growers’ Cooperative Society exposed to technical and business Ltd. The launching also showcased training with a focus on starting a agricultural produce from a drip business. The Institute organized irrigation project, which was funded other speciﬁc training activities in by the Caribbean Food and Nutrition entrepreneurship. Institute and IICA. One youth was provided with a loan of EC$4,000 to Fifteen marginalized youths of enhance his farming enterprise. Project Strong were able to deliver on a contractual arrangement to produce school uniforms and Introducing technology and gift baskets as a result of a skills- innovation for the modernization training project, which was of agriculture and rural life initiated by the Institute. Youths have graduated with marketable The Institute conducted a diagnostic skills and have been utilizing evaluation of the Ministry of the skills in their various Agriculture and developed a strategic communities. plan for its restructuring.

St. Lucia

IICA’s contribution to the facilitated through the MAFF/IICA repositioning of agriculture and and WIBDECO sponsored national rural life consultations.

IICA’s actions led to an increased The institute continued its support understanding and continued to build knowledge capacities and implementation of the Agro advance the ministerial agenda Plan 2003-2015, the Key Binding within the MAFF and the Secretariat Constraints as identiﬁed by the Jagdeo of OECS by facilitating their Initiative, the OECS Agriculture participation in national, regional Strategy and the MAFF Strategic and hemispheric dialogue. Framework for repositioning Agriculture and Rural Life. Efforts towards the determination of the True Contribution of Agriculture Continued dialogue towards the to Economic Development implementation of the new strategic continued with a training of trainers’ framework for agriculture was workshop.

61 Executive Summaries by Country The IICA/MAFF sponsored seminar and Standards Committee (AHFSSC) series Saint Lucia Agriculture focused on strategies to enhance and Facing the Future continued with increase cooperation amongst the an examination of the “Potential public sector agencies and also amongst Impact of the CSME on Agriculture the public and private sectors. Development and Farmer Organizations in Saint Lucia”. The capability of the veterinary service to assess the service and to make recommendations that will enable it to Promoting trade and the take full advantage of new opportunities competitiveness of agribusiness and obligations of globalization was strengthened through a workshop IICA enhanced the enabling environment organized for private and public sector for increasing trade for local produce veterinarians. with a focus on the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) A Food Safety Strategy document was and emphasis on linkages, in particular prepared from which a national food with the tourism sector. safety strategy can be developed, other draft procedures for good agricultural IICA’s efforts resulted in increased practices for pigs and small ruminants understanding, capacity development were prepared for discussion with the and strengthening of cooperative Veterinary Services. actions to solve finance and marketing problems. Support for Saint Lucia officials to attend meetings of the World IICA aimed at effecting improvement to Trade Organization/Sanitary and foster institutional partnerships between Phytosanitary (SPS) Committee has financial institutions and the rural and resulted in both public and private agricultural sectors. sector actors increasing their capacity to understand the WTO Sanitary and The capacity of rural women enterprises Phytosanitary Agreement. was enhanced and the Pig and Bee Producers Cooperatives’ capacity strengthened to identify and plan for the Promoting the sustainable challenges and opportunities within the management of natural resources industry. and the environment

IICA supported the drafting of Strengthening agricultural health regulations for the national biosafety and food safety systems framework which was placed before the Attorney General’s Chambers The IICA-supported National and participated actively in the Agricultural Health and Food Safety development and support to the

62 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture National Biodiversity Strategy and (CANROP) has moved from a base Action Plan Committee. of one community to ﬁve groups.

A study towards the Development The effectiveness of community of an Environmental and Natural groups and the strengthening of their Resources Management Strategy institutional mechanism to identify for IICA in the Caribbean was challenges and ensuing solutions were commissioned. enhanced.

Strengthening rural communities Introducing technology and based on the territorial approach innovation for the modernization of agriculture and rural life The introduction of the wider concept of the territorial approach The knowledge capacity of the to rural development continued Hewanorra Organic Agricultural in 2006 with actions focused on Movement (HOAM) was enhanced people development and their social and their efforts advanced towards organizations. certiﬁcation.

The Saint Lucia Agriculture Forum Attracting youth to the sector for Youth (SLAFY) has increased continued with the greenhouse membership from 9 to 55 and the project to promote the use of the National Chapter of the Caribbean technology among Grades 4 to 6 at Network of Rural Women Producers the Fond Assau Primary School.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

IICA’s contribution to the Promoting trade and the repositioning of agriculture competitiveness of agribusiness and rural life Members of the St. Vincent and Through a process of dialogue the Grenadines’ Chapter of the and consultation with the major Caribbean Agribusiness Association stakeholders in the agricultural sector, (CABA) are poised to beneﬁt from IICA prepared a revised National the implementation of the CABA/ Technical Cooperation Agenda for MIF Project. St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

63 Executive Summaries by Country In collaboration with CARDI, succeeded Meeting of the Caribbean Agricultural in encouraging the participation of Forum for Youth (CAFY) and the 6th members of CABA (SVG) Chapter Caribbean Week of Agriculture. Inc. at the First Caribbean Agrifood Convention Enhancing Regional Entrepreneurs in rural communities Trade and Investments in the Agrifood will soon have increased opportunities Sector, and the 6th Caribbean Week of for investment taking advantage of Agriculture. the closer coordination between the Ministries of Agriculture and Tourism Beekeepers have been motivated to and the private sector in support of resume their beekeeping activities as a enhanced agrotourism linkages. result of their participation in a training workshop on Integrated Pest/Disease Management. Introducing technology and innovation for the modernization of agriculture and rural life Strengthening agricultural health and food safety systems In the spirit of inter-institutional cooperation and networking, as well as The constituent elements of the informing major stakeholders, IICA National Agricultural Health and Food assisted in organizing, shared work plans Safety System in St. Vincent and the and participated in the Meetings of the Grenadines continued to function in National Coordinating Committee for the spirit of team work, through their Agricultural Research and Development participation in the meetings of the (NCCARD). National Agricultural Health and Food Safety Committee. The enhanced capacity in vegetable production of Rabacca and surrounding areas was the result of the commissioning Strengthening rural communities of two greenhouses and the graduation of several agri-enterpreneurs, youth St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ and women, from a two-week training Network of Rural Women Producers workshop in greenhouse technology. (SVGNRWP) improved its planning The project was implemented with and execution of activities through the resources provided under the IICA/ convening of meetings of its Executive CARDI Agreement. and the general membership. Frontline extension ofﬁcers from the Inputs for the St. Vincent and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Grenadines’ Agricultural Forum for Fisheries and the St. Vincent Banana Youth (SVGAFY) 2006 Annual Work Growers’ Association enhanced their Plan were obtained through the its capabilities to respond to the technological participation in the Annual Executive challenges of the agricultural sector.

64 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Suriname

IICA’s contribution to the surveillance of the Carambola Fruit repositioning of agriculture Fly (Bactrocera carambolae). and rural life Suriname’s agriculture detected a new The Agricultural Sector Plan is more exotic pest in the tomato production, accessible to the international community namely the tomato fruit borer after its translation from Dutch into (Neoleucinodes sp.) that required English. our support in the preparation of a p l a n t o m i t i g a t e t h e e f f e c t o f IICA conducted workshops and this pest. meetings with the private and public sector involved in agriculture, to update A National Emergency Plan for the National Agenda for Technical Avian Inﬂuenza was prepared with Cooperation and maintained a presence the Ministry of Agriculture and in the media. other partners.

Suriname participated in the WTO/ Promoting trade and the SPS requirement workshop in Switzerland. competitiveness of agribusiness

Products from the agricultural sector in Suriname were identified that could be Promoting sustainable management exported to the CARICOM market. of natural resources and the environment IICA collaborated with the Ministry of Agriculture to prepare a Diversification The possibility for Suriname to Programme for Small Rice Farmers in be part of the Amazon Initiative the District of Nickerie and identified was evaluated in the workshop alternative income-generation activities. Sustainable Land Use in the Amazon Region and the Amazon Initiative Nickerie District received guidance on organized collaboration with diversification based on alliances with CELOS. other institutions. The participants of the XII Reunion of the Red TROPIGEN on the Strengthening of the agricultural phyto-genetic resources in the health and food safety systems tropics of South America were provided with tools to evaluate its IICA collaborated with the Ministry use and management (IICA, CELOS, of Agriculture on the monitoring and PROCITROPICOS).

65 Executive Summaries by Country Strengthening rural communities A Memorandum of Understanding based on the territorial approach was signed with the Organization of American State (OAS) in Suriname A plan for alternative income and the Pan-American Development generation for bauxite mined- Foundation (PADF), to bring relief to out areas in the Moengo District some communities in the Hinterland of Marowijne was prepared with affected by ﬂooding. p a r t n e r s f r o m t h e p u b l i c a n d private sector. A project in the Brownsberg Area, funded by WWF Guyana, for alternative Two important studies were income to gold miners to reduce the conducted in the Agro-tourism negative impacts in the nature reserve Project, to identify the potential park was implemented. for linkages between agriculture and tourism. Suriname’s participation in regional networks such as CAFY and CANROP A video was prepared to show the was strengthened. potential of Suriname in the different aspects of agrotourism, among which Introducing technology and were, culinary, wellbeing, health, culture, etc. innovation for the modernization of agriculture and rural life The community of POWAKKA received technical assistance to To encourage youngsters to join the improve their production, which agricultural sector, two school gardens consisted of soil preparation, are being implemented with the ﬁnancial composting, seedlings, community support of the Lions Club of Para, using organization management. interactive CD material.

Trinidad and Tobago

IICA’s contribution to the package that seeks to advance the repositioning of agriculture development of the sector, including: and rural life Status and Outlook of Agriculture and Rural Life in Trinidad & The Ministry of Agriculture Lands Tobago and the True Contribution and Marine Resources (MALMR) of Agriculture to the Economy of received a research/information Trinidad & Tobago.

66 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture In accordance with institutional Within the Ministry of mandates, the National Technical Agriculture, Lands and Marine Agenda was reviewed and synchronized Resources, IICA delivered a series with Trinidad and Tobago’s Vision 2020 of project management workshops Plan for Agricultural Development. to train agricultural and extension officers in four counties in North Participants from across the region Trinidad and ten planning officers in were sensitized to the project to the Agricultural Planning Division. establish a Monitoring and Evaluation Agricultural Information System which IICA strengthened its relationship with seeks to consolidate and strengthen the Faculty of Science and Agriculture existing information processes in of the University of the West Indies Caribbean countries to satisfy the (UWI) through training and internship need for monitoring and evaluating on agribusiness. progress in the Agro Plan 2003-2015 (UN/ECLAC, CTA, IICA). IICA collaborated with CABA, CARDI, NAMDEVCO and the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s Food Promoting trade and the and Beverage Industry Development competitiveness of agribusiness Committee (MTI/FBIDC), on the First Caribbean Agri-Food Trade To establish a way forward for Convention held in South Trinidad. the coordination of research and development within the agribusiness NAMDEVCO has a survey to sector, IICA and the Caribbean determine the demand for fruits and Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) vegetables in supermarkets. organized and hosted the regional workshop Optimizing the Benefits of Research and Development for the Strengthening agricultural health and enhancement of Agribusiness in the food safety systems Caribbean. The Agricultural Health and Food Under projects funded by the Safety programme continued to provide European Union, IICA supported training in topical areas of interest operations of the Caribbean Herbal and importance to the development Business Association (CHBA) of AHFS in the region, including Secretariat, including investor-friendly Avian Influenza, Mites of Economic technology briefs and herbal business Importance and Good Agricultural profiles for four major product Practices (GAPS). categories and seminars entitled Business Opportunities for the The Dairy Herd Health Manual was Caribbean Herbal Industry in Guyana completed and distributed to schools, and Trinidad and Tobago. Ministry personnel and farmers.

67 Executive Summaries by Country Promoting the sustainable prepared to initiate implementation management of natural resources of the strategy. and the environment To maintain the momentum in this IICA contributed to the development rapidly growing area of Biotechnology of the organic agriculture sector in the Caribbean region, IICA with the preparation of plans for spearheaded the organization of a development of three model organic regional workshop, hosted at the farms, located on Government 6th Caribbean Week of Agriculture, demonstration stations. and supported the University of the West Indies with a workshop on the commercialization of biotechnology improved anthurium varieties for Strengthening rural communities revitalizing the cut ﬂower industry in based on the territorial approach the Caribbean.

Support to the women’s groups Agrotourism linkages were promoted, in rural communities continued providing administrative and logistical through technical and administrative support through the ﬁrst phase of the support to the Network of Rural OAS project. Women Producers for regular and Annual General Meetings and in the IICA revisited a project of the Tobago reorganization of their micro-credit House of Assembly – for which scheme. funding was approved in 2006 – and commenced work on a feasibility study to develop an agrotourism attraction Introducing technology and at Hope Farm in Tobago. innovation for the modernization of agriculture and rural life A study that surveyed machine and technology use in the agricultural Under the guidance of the completed sector of Trinidad and Tobago, Strategy for Biotechnology and was prepared to assess the level of Biosafety in the Caribbean, project capitalization and technology transfer proposals on capacity building in the farming sector in Trinidad and and institution establishment were Tobago.

68 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Apendix 1: Publications

IICA. 2006. Estudio de la Cadena Agroalimentaria de Arroz en la República Dominicana. the Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Estudio de la Cadena Agroalimentaria de Carne de Res en República Dominicana. the Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Estudio de la Cadena Agroalimentaria de Carne de Cerdo en República Dominicana. The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Estudio de la Cadena Agroalimentaria de Ajo en República Dominicana. The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Estudio de la Cadena Agroalimentaria de Cebolla en República Dominicana. The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Estudio de la Cadena Agroalimentaria de leche. The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Plataforma de Agroexportación: Memorias de la Implementación de la primera Versión en la República Dominicana. The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Plan de Vigilancia para Inﬂuenza Aviar en República Dominicana. The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Marco de políticas para el Sector Agropecuario y el Medio Rural. (Conﬁdential). The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Propuesta de Reforma Institucional (Conﬁdential). The Dominican Republic: IICA.

IICA. 2005. Organic Agriculture in Trinidad and Tobago: Prospects and Opportunities. Trinidad & Tobago: IICA.

IICA. 2006. Strategy for a Caribbean Programme on Biotechnology and Biosafety. Trinidad and Tobago: IICA.

69 Apendix 1 CHBA. 2006. Technology Brief: Cosmeceuticals. Trinidad & Tobago: Caribbean Herbal Business Association.

CHBA. 2006. Technology Brief: Essential Oils and Oleoresins. Trinidad & Tobago: Caribbean Herbal Business Association.

CHBA. 2006. Technology Brief: Exotic Beverages. Trinidad & Tobago: Caribbean Herbal Business Association.

CHBA. 2006. Technology Brief: Herbal Capsules. Trinidad & Tobago: Caribbean Herbal Business Association

CHBA. 2006. Technology Brief: Herbal Tea. Trinidad & Tobago: Caribbean Herbal Business Association.

CHBA. 2006. Technology Brief: Herbs and Spices. Trinidad & Tobago: Caribbean Herbal Business Association.

CHBA. 2006. Technology Brief: Liquid Extracts. Trinidad & Tobago: Caribbean Herbal Business Association.

Francis, D; K. Belgrove (Eds.). 2006. In a Nutshell – Youth in Agriculture. Trinidad & Tobago: IICA.

Francis, D; Rampersaud, R. (Eds.). 2006. In a Nutshell – Repositioning Agriculture and Rural Life. Trinidad & Tobago: IICA.

Parke, A.; Francis, D. (Eds.) AgriView. Vol. 12, No. 1, 2006

Parke, A.; Francis, D. (Eds.) AgriView. Vol. 12, No. 2, 2006

70 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Apendix 2: Acronyms

ACS Association of Caribbean States AGM Annual General Meeting AHFS Agricultural Health and Food Safety AI Avian Inﬂuenza AMF Agricultural Modernization Fund CABA Caribbean Agribusiness Association CACHE Caribbean Council of Higher Education in Agriculture CAFY Caribbean Agricultural Forum of Youth CAHFSA Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency CAIC Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce CANROP Caribbean Network of Rural Women Producers CARAPA Caribbean Association of Researchers and Herbal Practitioners CARAPN Caribbean Agricultural Policy Network CARDI Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute CARICOM Caribbean Community CARIRI Caribbean Industrial Research Institute CATN Caribbean Agro-Trade Network CBERA Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act CCS Caribbean Community Secretariat CDB Caribbean Development Bank CDE Centre for the Development of Enterprise CEDA Caribbean Export Development Agency CEHI Caribbean Environmental Health Institute

71 Apendix 2 CDERA Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency CGABC Consultative Group for Agro-biotechnology in the Caribbean CHA Caribbean Hotel Association CHBA Caribbean Herbal Business Association CHG Conference of Heads of Government CIDA Canadian International Development Agency CISWG Caribbean Invasive Species Working Group CPBB Caribbean Programme on Biotechnology and Biosafety CRA Caribbean Rice Association CRFM Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism CROAM Caribbean Regional Organic Agriculture Movement CTA Technical Centre for Agriculture and Rural Cooperation CTO Caribbean Tourism Organization CWA Caribbean Week of Agriculture DOAM Dominica Organic Agriculture Movement ECS Eastern Caribbean States FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations GCT General Consumption Tax GFG Giraudel Flower Group GoJ Government of Jamaica HOAM Hewanorra Organic Agriculture Movement ICT Information and Communications Technology IDIAF Dominican Institute for Agricultural and Forestry Research IIB Institute of Innovation and Biotechnology IICA Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture ISPM International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures IWRMS Integrated Water Resources Management Strategy IWCAM Integrated Coastal Area and Watershed Management Project JAS Jamaica Agricultural Society LLPB Livestock and Livestock Products Board

72 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture MDG Millennium Development Goals NRWP Network of Rural Women Producers, Guyana OAS Organization of American States OECS Organization of Eastern Caribbean States PAHO Pan-American Health Organization PIOJ Planning Institute of Jamaica PROCICARIBE Caribbean Research, Science and Technology Networking System RDC Rural Development Commission (Barbados) SLMB Saint Lucia Marketing Board SPS Sanitary and Phytosanitary SURALCO Suriname Aluminium Company TTABA Trinidad and Tobago Agribusiness Association UG University of Guyana UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNEP United Nations Environment Programme USAID United States Agency for International Development USDA United States Department of Agriculture UWI University of the West Indies WTO World Trade Organization WTTC World Travel and Tourism Council

73 Apendix 2 Apendix 3: List of professional staff in the Caribbean

Antigua Julie-Ann Laudat, Technical Coordinator

Bahamas Marikis Alvarez, Representative Alarice Grant, Development Specialist

Barbados Ena C. Harvey, Representative Carol Thomas, Regional Specialist, Agricultural Health and Food Safety Joseph Peltier, Regional Specialist, Sustainable Rural Development

Dominica Kervin Stephenson, Technical Coordinator

Dominican Republic Rafael Marte, Representative Victor del Angel, Technical Coordinator Manuel Messina, Specialist in Trade and Agribusiness Development Fior D´aliza García, Administrator Freddy de Jesús Buten (SEA-IICA). Information Systems Carlos Vargas (Consultant). Information Systems Teresa Romero (BAGRICOLA-IICA). Information Systems José A. Moreta P. (SEA-IICA). Trade Chains Faustino Rijo (SEA-IICA). Trade Chains Juan A. Oscar Hernández Peguero (Consultant). Export Platform Dileccio Vanderlinder P. (SEA-IICA). Agricultural Health and Food Safety Pilar Ramírez (Consultant). Organic Agriculture Felipe Porro (SEA-IICA). Organic Agriculture Martín Estrella (IICA-SEA). Organic Agriculture / Milk Bank Ana Julia Reynoso (IICA-IDIAF). Technology and Innovation Rossanna Figueroa (Consultant). Public Relations / Milk Bank

75 Apendix 3 Luz Adelma Guillén Castro (SEA-IICA). Reform of Agricultural Sector Juan Ramón Rodríguez (SEA-IICA). Reform of Agricultural Sector Ziomara Reyes (SEA-IICA). Reform of Agricultural Sector Rafael Ledesma, Education/CACHE César Cruz, CACHE

Grenada Cosmos Joseph, Coordinator

Guyana Cromwell C. Crawford, Rural Development Specialist/Acting Representative Maxine Parris-Aaron, Agricultural Health Specialist Hector Munoz, Associate Professional Christopher Warui, Contracted Agronomist Autry Haynes, Contracted Agronomist

Haiti Alfredo Mena, Representative Frandz Nelson, Programme Coordinator Rachelle Pierre, Louis Chéry Rural Development Specialist Keith Flanagan, Project Coordinator, PPC/USDA Project Wesley Jeune, Field Coordinator, PWOTOKOL Project Dieudonné Eugène, Project Coordinator, Scolyte Project Joseph Délinois, Ministerial Delegate Colette Blanchet, Caribbbean Region

Jamaica Trevor W. Murray, Representative Shauna Brandon Rural Development Specialist Robert Reid, Agribusiness Specialist (Joined in November 2006)

St. Kitts and Nevis Augustine Merchant, Coordinator

Saint Lucia Una May Gordon, Representative Vincent Little, Regional Project Specialist Everton Ambrose, Specialist in Plant Protection Melville Edwards, Regional Specialist, Agribusiness

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Godwin Daniel, Coordinator

76 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture Suriname Michelet Mascary, Representative Hesdy G. Ormskerk, Fruit and Vegetable Specialist

Trinidad and Tobago Aaron Parke, Representative Wayne De Chi, Agricultural Health and Food Safety Specialist Diana Francis, Regional Consultant, Trade Policy Edric Harry, Policy Analysis and Planning Specialist Karen Lee Lum, Consultant, Caribbean Herbal Business Association Kathryn Duncan, Information and Communications Specialist Vermaran Extavour, Consultant, Rural Development Richard Rampersaud, Consultant, Caribbean Regional Agricultural Policy Network (CaRAPN)

Contacts

Ofﬁce of the Director of Operations, Caribbean Region IICA Headquarters, P.O. Box 55-2200, Coronado, San José, COSTA RICA

IICA Ofﬁce in Antigua & Barbuda c/o OAS Cor. Fort Road and Luther George Place P.O. Box 1552, St. John’s ANTIGUA Tel: (268) 462-6119 - Fax: (268) 462-6118 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in Bahamas Centreville Professional Plaza 8th Terrace and Collins Avenue, Suite 5 P.O. Box 6205, Nassau, BAHAMAS Tel: (242) 325-8800 - Fax: (242) 325-8800 Email: [email protected]

77 Apendix 3 IICA Ofﬁce in Barbados Chelsea House, Chelsea Road St. Michael BARBADOS Tel: (246) 427-4740/1 - Fax: (246) 429-3509 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in Dominica c/o Division of Agriculture Botanical Gardens, Roseau DOMINICA Tel: (767) 448-4502 - Fax: (767) 448-5898 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in the Dominican Republic Esquina Fray Ciprano de Utrera Centro de los Heros Apartado 711, Santo Domingo DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Tel: (809) 533-7522/2797 - Fax: (809) 532-5312 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in Grenada 2nd Floor, Campbell Building The Villa, P.O. Box 228 St. George’s GRENADA Tel: (473) 440-5547 - Fax: (473) 440-4191 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in Guyana Lot 18, Brickdam P.O. Box 10-1089 Stabroak, Georgetown, GUYANA Tel: (592) 226-3413/8347 - Fax: (592) 225-8358 Email: [email protected]

78 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture IICA Ofﬁce in Haiti 1ère Impasse Lavaud No. 14 B.P. 2020, Port au Prince HAITI Tel: (509) 256-6859 / 6884 - Fax: (509) 256-6882 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in Jamaica Hope Gardens P.O. Box 349, Kingston 6 JAMAICA Tel: (876) 927-0020; 702-4779/80 - Fax: (876) 702-4781 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in St. Kitts and Nevis c/o Ministry of Agriculture P.O. Box 848, La Guerite Basseterre ST. KITTS Tel: (869) 465-5104 - Fax: (869) 465-8908 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in St. Lucia / ECS Block A, NIS Building Waterfront P.O. Box 1223, Castries ST. LUCIA Tel: (758) 451-6760/1 - Fax: (758) 451-6774 Email: [email protected]

IICA in St. Vincent and the Grenadines c/o OAS, Granby Street P.O. Box 654, Kingstown ST. VINCENT Tel: (784) 457-2698 - Fax: (784) 451-2122 Email: [email protected]

79 Apendix 3 IICA Ofﬁce in Suriname Kantor, Letitia Vriesdelaan II Paramaribo SURINAME Tel: (597) 410 861; 951 710 - Fax: (597) 410 727 Email: [email protected]

IICA Ofﬁce in Trinidad & Tobago #3 Herbert Street, St. Clair Port of Spain TRINIDAD Tel: (868) 628-4403; 628-4078/9 - Fax: (868) 628-4562 Email: [email protected]

80 Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture