Caribbean News
Conflict in Europe an Opportunity to Build Food Self-Sufficiency
#Jamaica, March 16, 2022 – Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., says the conflict in Eastern Europe presents an opportunity for Jamaica to become more self-sufficient in food production. He said the effect of the conflict “means that there could be challenges but also significant opportunities for us to shift our dietary focus to more of our local products like cassava and yam”.
The Minister was addressing a recent JIS Think Tank.
Ukraine is a major global food supplier, and Russia and Ukraine, combined, account for a significant portion of global wheat and grain exports.
In 2019, the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC) listed Russia as the number-one exporter of fertilizer and wheat, while information from the United States Energy Information Administration indicated that in 2020, Russia was the world’s third largest producer of petroleum behind the United States and Saudi Arabia.
The armed conflict could disrupt food production and supply, and coupled with increased economic sanctions against Russia, would result in increase in prices for vital commodities.
Minister Charles Jr. said the Government has initiated an assessment on the potential impact of the situation on the local economy.
“We recognise that Russia, as a major supplier of fertiliser, may have a significant impact globally. We may also see a
significant impact, with an increase in the cost of fuel and freight shipment costs. This may also impact us here in Jamaica,” he pointed out.
He noted that the potential threat of price increases, strengthens the Government’s focus on boosting local production capacity.
He said that Jamaica is also looking to leverage its regional partnerships as part of the process to build self-sufficiency.
“I recently had discussions with our Cuban partners to hear what they are doing there. We are also looking into the mechanisms that they are using to produce fertiliser and their own food and [exploring] the potential for insect farming as an option for animal feed,” Minister Charles Jr. said.
In the meantime, Chairman of the Board of the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), Lieutenant Commander George Overton, said there is also potential for the local fisheries sector to fill gaps in demand due to the conflict.
“On that side of the world, there are significant fish producers. With the conflict taking place, they may not be able to fulfil the demands. Therefore, we have the opportunity, if we can ramp up production, to fill some of those gaps,” he said.
As it relates to exploring options to mitigate rising fuel costs, Lt. Commander Overton indicated that this is part of measures being undertaken to ensure the sustainability of the sector.
“What we put in place must be able to meet the changing environments that our operators are in, whether it is by providing more efficient and reliable equipment or putting in place innovative technologies that will create more reliable and efficient sources of energy,” he said.
Contact: Twila Wheelan
Release: JIS
KINGSTON, May 1 (JIS):
Ground has been broken at the tuition-free Christel House at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, for the construction of a high school.
Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Faval Williams, who delivered the keynote address at the site, today (May 1), said Christel House’s dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering vulnerable children is “nothing short of inspiring”.
“Your decision to invest in Jamaica speaks volumes about your belief in our nation’s potential, and your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth is appreciated,” Minister Williams said.
She added that the partnership between the Government and the organisation, forged through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019, is a “prime example” of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.
Further, the Minister said a foundation is being laid for a brighter future, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.
She said that Christel House Jamaica, which now operates a kindergarten school at the location, will in time be more than just a school.
“It will be a symbol of optimism, a sanctuary of learning, and a catalyst for positive change in our community,” the Minister said.
“By providing comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, healthcare, and mentorship, Christel House will empower students to break free from the chains of poverty and chart a course towards a better tomorrow,” she added.
Mrs. Willliams said the shared goal between the Administration and Christel House extends beyond the construction of a building, as it is about nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.
“Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity, equity, and social justice, ensuring that no child is left behind,” she said.
The school provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, as well as transportation for children living far distances from the school. It also provides uniforms and textbooks, and counselling services for its students who have to contend with psychological and other emotional issues.
Founder of Christel House International, Christel Dehaan, emigrated from Germany to the United States (US) in 1962, and was an accomplished businesswoman.
In 1996, she sold her global enterprise, Resort Condominiums International (RCI), which had offices in 38 countries, and devoted her resources to philanthropic work from her headquarters in North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.
With support from dedicated donors, schools are run in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.
CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS
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