MANDEVILLE, Jamaica — Several stakeholders have now been trained in the use of digital sensors to improve crop management and boost agricultural productivity.

This training was facilitated through a Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining.

The training session, held at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) office in Mandeville, formed part of the ongoing regional project titled “Digital Solutions to Improve Horticultural Crop Management in the Caribbean.”

A total of 29 participants, including researchers, extension officers and farmers from both the public and private sectors, received hands-on training in the use of soil, water and environmental sensors. These tools are being promoted as cost-effective innovations to support modern farming techniques in both protected and open-field systems.

During the session, participants learned to install and activate sensor hardware, connect the devices to software platforms, and analyse real-time data related to soil moisture, nutrient levels and environmental conditions. The training aimed to empower farmers to make timely, informed decisions to increase efficiency and reduce waste in crop production.

FAO’s lead technical officer for crop production and plant protection, Melvin Medina Navarro, led the workshop and emphasised the role of digital tools in enhancing Jamaica’s agricultural performance.

“Jamaica will see many benefits from the use of digital sensors in agriculture,” said Navarro. “This technology provides an opportunity to better understand crop performance through data access in real time and monitoring of important parameters that directly affect yield and ensure timely decisions.”

Among the highlighted tools were soil sensors that allow for more precise irrigation, helping farmers conserve water and reduce costs. Environmental sensors were also showcased as critical tools for tracking temperature, humidity and other conditions that affect plant health and productivity.

The initiative is part of a broader FAO-supported push to introduce innovative, affordable agricultural technologies across the Caribbean. In Jamaica, the goal is to pilot these digital solutions to promote year-round cultivation of high-value crops, contributing to greater food security and improved farm-level income.