Youth-Led Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices: A Game Changer for Jamaica’s Future Farmers
DENBIGH, Clarendon – Garfield Ewart, the Acting Executive Director of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs, is calling on agriculture-related agencies and institutions to be game changers in the industry, with a special emphasis on climate-smart practices geared towards youth-led businesses. Ewart believes that supporting youth-led businesses will strengthen their capacity to adapt to the effects of climate change.
Recognizing the increased heat Jamaica has been experiencing recently, Ewart stressed the need for innovative ways to help livestock enterprises cope with these challenges. He proposed the introduction of more affordable and adaptable cooling systems for livestock production, as well as designing houses with improved ventilation to minimize the animals’ exposure to excessive heat stress. Ewart made these remarks while addressing patrons at the recent 69th staging of the Denbigh Agricultural and Industrial Food Show.
The Jamaica 4-H Clubs have dedicated themselves to the youth in agriculture program, implementing numerous initiatives over the past year to address issues and support individuals interested in farming. During this time, they have developed and supported 1,072 new youth-led agricultural enterprises. Their aim for the upcoming year is to assist even more youngsters in getting involved in farming. Ewart expressed gratitude to the Ministry for their continued support to the 4-H Clubs, stressing that their partnership is essential for supporting young farmers.
Ewart also encouraged young farmers who participated in the competitions at Denbigh and achieved significant success to use this opportunity as a stepping stone towards becoming established and productive farmers. He reaffirmed the Jamaica 4-H Clubs’ commitment to promoting and supporting youth initiatives, ensuring a robust succession plan in the agricultural sector. This plan ensures that when the current generation of farmers leaves the industry, competent individuals will be ready to take over.
Established 83 years ago, the Jamaica 4-H Clubs act as the administrator of the Government’s National Youth in Agriculture Policy, aiming to empower youth in agriculture and related sectors. They utilize adaptive technologies to create wealth while contributing to national development.
In summary, in order to address the effects of climate change and secure the future of farming in Jamaica, Garfield Ewart and the Jamaica 4-H Clubs are calling for agriculture-related agencies and institutions to be game changers. Through the promotion of climate-smart practices for youth-led businesses, there is an opportunity for the agricultural sector to adapt and thrive. The Jamaica 4-H Clubs are committed to supporting young farmers and ensuring a robust succession plan that will enable the industry to flourish for years to come.
