KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Irrigation Commission (NIC) is intensifying its customer engagement efforts as the Essex Valley Agricultural Development Project in St Elizabeth nears completion.

The NIC says this is to ensure that farmers in the region will be ready to benefit from improved irrigation services in 2026.

Director of Commercial Operations at the NIC, Wayne Barrett, said that the commission has been actively working with prospective customers to prepare for the rollout of water supply in the Essex Valley area.

Barrett, who was addressing a recent JIS Think Tank, said that from a commercial standpoint, one of the most important tasks has been the engagement and onboarding of new customers for the Essex Valley project.

He pointed out that the NIC’s commercial department has been proactive in providing technical advice and maintaining communication through social media platforms. These efforts, he said, are designed to ensure that farmers are well prepared to resume and expand their agricultural activities once irrigation services are operational.

“We continue to engage our customers directly through farm visits, consultations, and ongoing communication. We are confident that our services will help farmers restore their production and achieve financial security,” Barrett noted.

The Essex Valley Agricultural Development Project, which is being implemented in phases, is a national investment designed to expand modern irrigation, improve water reliability and boost agricultural productivity.

The NIC has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering efficient and effective service, supporting farmers in strengthening Jamaica’s food security and advancing rural economic development.

Applications are now open for irrigation services under the project.

— JIS