As part of its new FACE of Food initiative, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining says boosting aquaculture is an important element of the food security campaign.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston on Friday, August 4, Green touted both the economic and environmental benefits of aquaculture to the country. “Within the realm of food production, the aquaculture industry emerges as a beacon of rapid growth, asserting itself as one of the fastest expanding sectors and as our global population surges, conventional farming practices are unsustainable,” he said.

As part of a comprehensive approach to promoting aquaculture, Green introduced a new initiative aimed at supporting new entrants into the industry.

The Government outlined five production zones that have been identified as ideal areas to cultivate a sustainable aquaculture industry: Westmoreland, Clarendon, St. Mary, St Elizabeth, and St Catherine.

Green highlighted that there are people who are interested in aquaculture, but lack the technical expertise required. As such, he announced that through the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), and other public-private partnerships, the Government will be providing a structure where people can get technical support and capacity building.

Green added that the NFA, in tandem, is exploring the feasibility of implementing fish aggregating devices (FAD) into Jamaican waters for better fisheries output.