KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — A pilot project to reap a minimum of 300 hectares of sugar cane using green harvesting techniques, is to be implemented by September 30, this year.

This activity is to be carried out under the Sugar Transformation Programme for which the Government has allocated $2.38 billion in the 2016/17 Estimates of Expenditure.

The programme seeks to develop a sustainable private sector-led sugar industry; and coordinate the smooth and effective implementation of the Jamaica Country Strategy for the Adaptation of the Sugar Industry 2006 to 2020.

It is further anticipated that by September 30, 2016, the project will support the expansion of sugar cane area under drip irrigation by minimum 300 hectares; rehabilitate a minimum of 80 kilometres of cane roads; and support training and certification of at least 600 persons from Sugar Dependent Areas (SDAs) in vocational skills.

It is also expected that by this time, an additional $100 million is to be injected in the Sugar Area Development Programme (SADP) Training Fund; the establishment/strengthening of a minimum of 80 sustainable small businesses in SDAs will be supported; and implementation of 80 social infrastructure projects in SDAs will be completed.

The project is being implemented by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries through funding from the Consolidated Fund.