KINGSTON, Jamaica – Chief Executive Officer of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), Daron Grant, says this year’s Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show is a celebration of the strength and determination of Jamaican farmers who have bounced back from a challenging 2024.

Grant, explained that this year’s theme ‘A New Era: Overcoming Challenges, Building Resilience, Securing Our Future’, pays tribute to farmers who have successfully rebounded from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Beryl and other weather events in 2024. Despite significant setbacks last year, Grant noted that farmers have not only recovered but are now producing at higher levels, a reason for national celebration.

This year’s Denbigh features hundreds of animals, produce displays, and the integration of advanced agricultural technologies. The livestock village, in particular, is a major attraction with animals on display, including cows weighing over 2,000 pounds. Grant shared that for many Jamaicans Denbigh provides a rare opportunity to see such livestock up close, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Innovation in farming was a central feature of the show and Grant pointed to the growing use of irrigation technology, robotics, and aquaculture systems as evidence of the sector’s evolution. Among the standout exhibits were projects from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, including a new agro-park dedicated to fisheries and a post-larvae facility designed to boost shrimp production. These developments, he said, signal a promising future for Jamaica’s agricultural landscape.

Efforts to make Denbigh more accessible to farmers and the public is also evident. The JAS provided 500 complimentary passes to its members, subsidised transportation costs, and, with support from sponsors and the ministry, offered ticket discounts of 25 per cent for JAS members and 20 per cent for registered farmers. Entry fee for the general public is $1,500 for adults and $600 for children.

In addition, a park-and-ride system is facilitated by the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC), with buses departing from Half-Way Tree, Portmore, and Spanish Town.

Youth engagement is another highlight, with the Youth in Agriculture Village showcasing projects designed to attract younger Jamaicans to the sector. Grant expresses optimism that the exposure to modern technology and opportunities at Denbigh would encourage more young people to view agriculture as a lucrative career path.

As the JAS continues to build on the show’s legacy, Grant revealed plans to seek government support for new infrastructure, including barns and a livestock pavilion, to further elevate the exhibition experience in years to come.

He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, the Rural Agricultural Development Authority and the Jamaica 4-H Clubs for their longstanding partnership in making the show a success for over seven decades.

Grant is encouraging all Jamaicans to visit Denbigh, noting that it remains one of the few places where the full spectrum of Jamaican agriculture can be experienced in one day.