Farmers and Fishers to Gain Expanded Coverage Under GK Weather Protect Programme

Farmers and fishers insured under the GraceKennedy (GK) Weather Protection Programme are set to benefit from expanded support, following strategic adjustments to the framework of the insurance scheme.

One major update is the transition of the parametric scheme to year-round coverage against hurricane winds, excess rainfall, and drought, eliminating the need for farmers to reapply each season.

Additionally, payout thresholds have been lowered, making claims more accessible for beneficiaries.

The programme has also significantly increased support for severe weather events; for example, the payout for a category-four hurricane has risen from 25 per cent to 80 per cent of total coverage.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, commended GK Insurance for the enhancements, noting that they reflect both the Ministry’s advocacy and a direct response to farmers’ needs following Hurricane Melissa.

“They have answered that call, and GK Weather Protect is now a year-round system. That was very important because, the truth is, the seasons have changed. When you would want to guard against drought, we are having rain; and when you guard against rain, you have drought. That is the reality. For this insurance coverage to truly work, the protection has to be year-round,” Minister Green said.

He was speaking on Monday (March 9) at the GK General Insurance office in New Kingston during a ceremony marking the handover of funding from Hi-Pro and CARE International to provide insurance for 120 female producers.

The Minister also highlighted the success of the insurance scheme, noting that farmers who enrolled prior to Hurricane Melissa received prompt payouts, demonstrating the programme’s effectiveness.

With the adjustments to the triggers and the increase in payouts, Mr. Green has urged more farmers to enrol in the programme.

“We need greater numbers of farmer enrolment, and we need to see how we can leverage partnerships to make that possible,” he said.

The Minister noted that while the Government had initially earmarked resources to provide baseline coverage for 1,000 farmers, only about 800 participants took advantage of the provision.

He further announced that this year, additional provisions will be made for farmers and fishers who wish to participate in the insurance programme.

“We will be allocating some funds on a first-come, first-served basis. Those who come will be able to get their baseline coverage free, having it being paid for by the Government,” Minister Green indicated.

Meanwhile, GK General Insurance Client and Partner Services Manager, Orette Duncan, emphasised the efficiency of the parametric insurance model, noting that payouts are processed within days once independent weather data confirms that the established triggers have been met.

“We are putting this protection directly into the hands of those who really need it most, our farmers… one farmer at a time,” he said, reaffirming GK Insurance’s commitment to safeguarding Jamaica’s food security.