There is perpetual talk that more youth should get in to agriculture. Frankly, I strongly endorse the argument but there are some overburdening realities which must be confronted before this dream can ever come to fruition.

In Jamaica, it is very difficult to come by arable land. This has prevented many potential young farmers from indulging in the field. Most of the arable lands are sitting idly in rural parishes and they are not accessible for lease or purchase.

Another situation is that there is little or no information on available markings. There is clearly not enough market research. Hence, even those who are interested in farming and have other resources tosupport their effort have a
very difficult time gathering information.

Farmers vulnerable

While the Rural Agricultural Development Authority has a marketing department, whether it is serving its intended purpose is something to cogitate. Without question, there is a drought in accessing market information in Jamaica, and I am looking to hear a spin doctor come to contest this self-evident truth. Besides, there is no access to insurance coverage for small farmers. This leave farmers vulnerable.

We need to put our words into action. The relevant public agricultural entities need to become more efficient. This means there is an urgent need for reform in the sector to provide farmers and especially aspiring young agriculturalists, with more realistic opportunities in agricultural.

I am, etc.,

DWAINE FORBES

droyalman@yahoo.com

St. Mary

Via Go-Jamaica