‘Eat Jamaican’ Campaign a Game Changer – Norman Grant

President of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), Senator Norman Grant, has hailed the ‘Eat Jamaican’ campaign as a game changer in the Jamaican economy.

He said the 12-year-old campaign, which encourages Jamaicans to ‘Grow What We Eat…Eat What We Grow’, has saved the country over US$500 million in food imports since its launch in November 2003.

He noted that with the support of the consumers, farmers, and policymakers, the campaign has enhanced brand Jamaica and improved quality and consistency in supply of agricultural produce.

Senator Grant was addressing a JIS Think Tank today (November 18), where he unveiled plans for the 12^th anniversary celebration of the campaign this month.

He noted that the emphasis on increasing production and consumption of local food, through the Eat Jamaican drive, is in recognition that “this is the way to reposition the agricultural sector and the economy on a whole, through a process of integrated rural development that will lead to sustainable food security and food independence.”

Other objectives of the campaign are: to re-establish the fact that Jamaica is an agricultural country; highlight the various aspects of the country’s agricultural sector; celebrate Jamaican cuisine culture; and to lift the morale of farmers and communities.                 Activities to mark the 12^th anniversary include a Roger Clarke Eat Jamaican Essay Competition targeting the nine to 10 age group; an Eat Jamaican Day exposition on November 25 on the grounds of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs headquarters, St. Andrew; and an Evening of Authentic Jamaican Cuisine on November 28 at the Constant Spring Golf Club.

Various ‘Eat Jamaican’ farmers’ markets will be in parishes across the island.

The Governor-General will read the proclamation declaring Eat Jamaican Day 2015 on November 25.