THE EDITOR, Sir:
HUGH MARTIN must be heartily congratulated for his recent article on the increased involvement in farming. This increased interest in farming coincides with a time when the challenges to farmers are at a new high. Cost of farm inputs, praedial larceny, adverse weather conditions, high cost of borrowing money, labour problems, low prices, globalisation, imports, marketing concerns, small portion of the national budget, to name only a few.
However, what could be assessed as the 'worst of times' is giving way to the 'best of times' where farming zeal is concerned. There is now a renewed interest in farming. It would appear to be also embracing not only quantity but also quality as well as variety in the sector.
The state of the traditional export cash crops of sugar, cocoa, bananas, citrus, coffee seem to offer a contradiction to this increased interest also. But niche farming, urban market gardening, backyard gardening, organic farming, horticulture, aqua culture, fruit orchard, fish farming, livestock farming, agro-forestry, lumber, fruits, vegetables, tree farming, apiculture, and agri-business in general, food processing and manufacturing, herbs/spices, hobby farming are all in this picture.
As we continue to look at the way forward in farming, the image of the traditional subsistence small farmer is changing. For example, women are now moving successfully on their own into the sector; not merely as farmers' spouse but a full fledge producer of farming products. The youth, although still greatly discouraged by older ones, have started to see farming as a business alternative in which they are their own boss. Schools must stop directing the boys only to the school garden. As a matter of fact, there are over two hundred and fifty (250) career opportunities at present based on farming and food production.
The JAS, RADA and every Jamaican here and in the Disapora have an important role to play. Our marketing strategies and focus in the near future will be the keys to farming and agri-business in Jamaica. Careful collaboration, planning and implementation will be vital for our survival.
I am, etc.,
Dr. FRANK LAWRENCE, J.P.
St. Ann JAS-ABS
