Farmers and residents in the rural community of Kitson Town, St Catherine, are eagerly anticipating the transformative impact of the ‘Improving Rural Livelihood Through Resilient Agrifood Systems’ project.

The US$1-million United Nations South-South Cooperation initiative, funded by the Government of India, is set to take root in the community over two years. It aims to reduce rural poverty, increase resilience, income, and employment, and foster sustainable livelihoods for 150 farmers across 26 districts in the community.

National project manager, Princess Lee, said that so far 86 residents have signed up to be a part of the skills training project, and the numbers are expected to climb as the team moves throughout the 26 districts in Kitson Town.

Azania Francis, a resident in the community, shared in a video presentation at the launch of the programme that it will be beneficial for her personal growth as well as the community.

“This project is a good initiative for the Kitson Town community, and it will help me in my poultry farming, and increase my production in crops as well because that is something that I really want to do. I hope that the young people will latch onto this opportunity because it is a great initiative,” said Francis.

Echoing similar sentiments was Nicole Douglas, a youth in the community who said the project would help her and other young people to grow.

Inspector Wayne Constantine, of the Guanaboa Vale Police Station said he finds the programme interesting, and he is hoping that the technological aspects will attract youths to participate.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the youths getting involved, getting their hands dirty in a good way and participating in the project, making good for themselves and the community,” said Constantine.

Kevin Linton, another resident who attended the focus group, shared that it will provide income and employment opportunities for community members.

“I think it will provide positive opportunities for just about everyone within the community. It will be beneficial to the community economically in the sense that persons will be able to create opportunities for themselves and others,” said Linton.

The ‘Improving Rural Livelihood Through Resilient Agrifood Systems’ project was launched on Tuesday with all major stakeholders in attendance.

The programme, which mainly seeks to target women and youths, will support residents in enhancing their income generation and employability, through the introduction of climate-resilient agricultural technologies and entrepreneurship training.

Through the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the Government of Jamaica, the project will allocate resources, including solar-powered drip irrigation systems, greenhouse farming, soilless cultivation methods such as hydroponics and aeroponics, water harvesting and storage facilities, and a solar-powered facility for drying and packaging.

Other partners involved in the project include the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), the Human Employment and Resource Training Trust/National Skills Training Agency (HEART), the Jamaica Business Development Corporation and the Department of Co-operatives and Friendly Societies (DCFS), an agency within the Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce.