KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – Farm Up Jamaica Limited (FUJL) has been endorsed as one of the projects that will transform agriculture in Jamaica, by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, JC Hutchinson.

The non-profit project has been established by the Jamaican diaspora to assist local farmers to cultivate organic food and increase the country’s food exports, while reducing the importation of inorganic and genetically modified foods.

Under the programme, members of the diaspora will help farmers with inputs, such as land preparation, organic seeds and fertilisers, and teach them new techniques on how to eliminate pests without abusive use of chemicals.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Ministry on Old Hope Road on July 19, Hutchinson said the increasing world demand for organic produce makes the project very timely.

He said the project will have a multiplier effect on the agricultural sector, as in addition to boosting organic farming it will provide jobs for many persons and identify markets for the produce.

The Minister commended the diaspora for their contribution and commitment to the country’s development.

Executive Director of FUJL, Neil Curtis, said the project would address some of the structural gaps that have existed in the farming sector for years. He pointed out that it would help to build relationships to secure stable markets for the farmers to sell their produce, including retail markets and hotels.

“We are not working with one farmer; we have a ratio of 10 farmers to one hotel. This creates a back-up and a consistent supply to businesses, especially if one farmer’s yield is not ready or is insufficient,” Curtis said.

He explained that all activities in the project would be monitored by international volunteers and local affiliates to ensure that the crops are produced based on the outlined specifications and that they go to market as agreed.