71 Farm Roads Rehabilitated

Seventy-one farm roads across the island, have been repaired under the $870 million national Farm Road Rehabilitation Programme.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, made the disclosure at the official opening of three farm roads in St. Elizabeth on Friday (February 21).

The roads were opened in Big Ground (Newcombe Valley), Giddy Hall, and Numbers Road (Goshen) in the parish.

Mr. Green informed that so far, 38 major farm roads have been completed, with an additional 46 roads targeted for rehabilitation this year.

He further stated that of the 44 farm roads slated for repairs, 33 have already been addressed.

“Over the last two financial years, we have done 22 farm roads in St. Elizabeth spanning 12.9 kilometres. In fact, in almost every major farming community in St. Elizabeth they can point to at least one road that has been done under the national Farm Road Rehabilitation Programme,” Mr. Green indicated.

St. Elizabeth is responsible for more than 30 per cent of agricultural production in Jamaica, having over 39,000 registered farmers and 1500 hectares of land under domestic food production.

Moreover, the parish has 45 acres of land under greenhouse production.

“So, when we do these roads, it is helping entire communities. You help the farmers, the children, families and you raise the profile of the communities and will also open up a lot of production,” Mr. Green stated.

“We know at the Ministry that in order for us to have our farmers produce and drive the economy, we have to ensure that they have the infrastructure that they need [and] the roads that lead to their farm in good condition so that it incentivize their production,” he added.

The improvements have brought not only better infrastructure, but also a renewed sense of hope and opportunity for residents in the various communities.

Resident of Pepper, Jodi Ann Daley, recounted the challenges faced before the road repairs, including an incident where an elderly woman had to be transported in a wheelbarrow due to the poor condition of the road.

She said she is now relieved and appreciative of the new road, noting its positive impact on farmers and the community.

“We would like to thank Member of Parliament for St. Elizabeth North Eastern, Delroy Slowley, and other members who participated in fixing the road,” Ms. Daley said.

Similarly, Maxine Parchment of Big Ground highlighted the ease with which her husband can now tend to his livestock thanks to the upgraded road.

Meanwhile, resident of Giddy Hall, Byron Daley recalled the challenges faced when trucks carrying melons, papayas, and pumpkins would struggle on the damaged roadways, often leading to produce falling off during transit.

He noted that the improved infrastructure now allows for a safer and more efficient means of transporting the farm produce.

“So, I am glad for these roads and would like more to be done. I am more than grateful,” Mr. Daley said.