Transformation of regional food systems pivotal to food security, resilience – President

(Department of Public Information Press Release) His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali believes that in order for regional food security and resilience to be achieved, Governments must think about transforming their food systems.

The Head of State, who is also lead Head of Government with responsibility for Agriculture in the CARICOM Quasi Cabinet, made this disclosure in his keynote address to Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2021 on Monday. This event is being celebrated under the theme, ‘Transforming Our Food Systems’.

“Agriculture is once again on the front burner. I know this to be true because Guyana, as you know, holds lead responsibility for agriculture… Guyana does not take this responsibility lightly. We have demonstrated our willingness and commitment from the very onset to lead from the front,” the Head of State said. 

The President indicated that the Caribbean has the resources to ensure greater food security, but that it has not been taking advantage of the economic opportunities.

Against this background, Dr. Ali said, “It remains a travesty that our region, blessed with arable lands, abundant freshwater supplies and skilled agricultural workers, imports more than US$5 billion annually. We have the means to slash original food import bill, produce more of the food we consume, and the process generates sustainable livelihoods through agriculture.”

Read more at: Department of Public Information

Source: CARICOM TODAY