New President of JPFA Outlines Three-Year Agenda

Newly elected President of the Jamaica Pig Farmers Association (JPFA), Davian Richards, has outlined a three-year agenda aimed at strengthening local pig farmers, professionalising the industry and expanding the market for Jamaican pork.

Mr. Richards, who was delivering his inaugural address at the Association’s 24th Annual General Meeting, held at the Kendal Camp and Conference Centre in Manchester on September 25, said his priorities would centre around “unity, growth and sustainability”.

He argued that the success of the Association must be measured by the sustainability and profitability of its farmers.

“I understand the early morning, the late night. I understand the rising cost of operation with no increase to farmers at the farm gate,” Mr. Richards said, noting that farmers also faced challenges relating to animal health, reliable markets, cash flow and maintaining profitable operations.

A major priority, he said, would be collaboration with the Government and other stakeholders to develop and implement a national minimum standard for pig farming.

Mr. Richards said the standard should provide farmers with clear guidelines covering animal healthcare, food safety, farm management, traceability, housing and nutrition, while strengthening consumer confidence in locally produced pork.

He also announced plans to establish a research and technical data centre within the JPFA to provide farmers with improved access to genetics, technical support and practical recommendations aimed at increasing productivity and profitability.

The proposed technical team would include veterinarians and animal technicians, while data would be collected on production, genetics, supply requirements and challenges affecting farmers.

Mr. Richards said the Association would also seek to move Jamaica towards 100 per cent pork self-sufficiency within five years, supported by better genetics, nutrition, production forecasting, market development and improved profitability.

He noted that the JPFA would relaunch and expand ‘Pork Jamaica’ as a national platform for promoting Jamaican pork.

The President further outlined plans to strengthen farmer training, acquire a dedicated truck to transport pigs from farms to abattoirs and advance discussions for a permanent JPFA home at the Denbigh Showground in Clarendon.

He urged farmers, processors, feed companies, veterinarians, educators, government agencies, women and young people to work together to build a stronger industry.

“I am a farmer. I want farmers to be able to say, because I am a JPFA member, my farm is stronger,” Mr. Richards said.