DENBIGH, Clarendon — Noting that farmers are confronting climate change head-on, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen has pointed to technological advancements, innovation and climate-smart agriculture as tools they can use to thrive.

“Drought, floods, hurricanes, shifting seasons and rising costs have all left their scars on farming across the country but if history teaches us anything, it is that Jamaican farmers have never been strangers to challenges. They have always been able to adapt and to thrive. Now is the time to channel that same spirit into a bold new era of agriculture, one that is smarter, more creative, and more resilient. This means moving beyond traditional methods to adopt climate-smart technologies. These include things like precision irrigation, soil regeneration, integrated test management, drought resistant crops, and water harvesting,” he urged.

The comments came during a keynote address delivered on the governor general’s behalf by Clarendon Custos Edith Chin, on day one of the 71st staging of the annual Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food show.

Sir Allen noted that for more than seven decades, Denbigh has captured the strength, innovation and enduring spirit of Jamaican farmers who year after year feed the nation and form the backbone of our economy.

“Let us take the best of our heritage and marry it with the promise of innovation. This transformation requires new energy, and we must empower our young people to see farming not as a fallback but as the future. With the right training, access to land, capital and mentorship — especially for young women and first-time farmers — we can create a new generation of agri-preneurs who are digitally savvy, environmentally conscious and business minded,” he said.

The governor general also emphasised that it will require a collective effort from all stakeholders, strengthened value chains, reward for innovation, and a reduction in risks borne by those who work the land.

“Denbigh 2025 should be a rallying call to re-imagine agriculture as a dynamic, profitable and sustainable venture. It is more than a showcase of agriculture, it is a symbol of our shared resilience,” he stressed.

Denbigh 71 was held under the theme, ‘A new era overcoming challenges, building resilience, securing our future’.

Also speaking during last Friday’s event, Leader of the Opposition Mark Golding said he was impressed by the level of production, innovation and creativity on display.

“What we are witnessing here today is a powerful testament of the resilience, resourcefulness and determination of our farmers across Jamaica. From traditional crops to value-added agro-processing, Denbigh continues to showcase the best of Jamaican agriculture and rural enterprise. The motto ‘Eat what you grow and grow what you eat’ is consistent with the philosophy of self-reliance which is at the heart of our plan. This comes at a time when Jamaica must take decisive steps to strengthen our food systems, investing in sustainable agriculture and empowering the people who labour to put food on our tables,” Golding said.

Wayne Hinds helps his son Niheel with a tomato from the Jamaica 4h Club booth at Denbigh 71 in May Pen ,Clarendon on Friday.  (Photo: Naphtali Junior)