Trinidad and Tobago enhances agricultural sector, grants awarded worth $3.1 million

A boost in the agricultural sector of Trinidad and Tobago was noticed as the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Sea distributed $3.1 million in grants to 34 farmers, on September 14, 2024.

The distribution was a component of Cycle 7 Batch 2 of the Agricultural Finance Support Programme known as the Agro-Incentive Grant, held at the Ministry’s Head Office in Chaguanas against a lively backdrop, the Namdevco Farmers’ Market.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Kazim Hosein, who distributes these grants, said that this program is well beyond just a boost to finances. “The Agro-Incentive Grant is an investment for the future of our agriculture sector,” declared Hosein.

He said that the now released grants would assist in cultivating innovation, resilience, and sustainability, as well as indispensable values in the pursuit of food security and economic stability in Trinidad and Tobago.

He further hailed the farmers as key agents in these efforts and also told that the government was committed to supporting their work.

Minister-in-charge for the Ministry of Agriculture, Senator Avinash Singh also complimented the recipients of the grants and called them heroes in the field of agriculture.

Singh acknowledged the contribution they were making for the food chain in the country and ensured the Ministry’s commitment to this endeavour.

There grants are meant to sustain innovation initiatives in the agricultural sector. Some of the projects include installing advanced irrigation and hydroponic systems, installation of solar panels, construction of shade houses, among other initiatives improving Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).

Another area to be included is the new investment in livestock and equipment for advanced fishing, all of which are broad approaches towards enhancing productivity and sustainability in agriculture.

In step with distribution of grants, the Ministry has launched a new registration portal for farmers. This new portal seeks to streamline access to all kinds of services and support programs by the Ministry. The system involves applying for a farmer’s badge through the portal. This badge facilitates access to several benefits under the Agricultural Incentive Programme (AIP).

The AIP offers cash rebates and exemptions in 92 categories, ranging from purchasing new vehicles, integrated pest management systems, advances in livestock and agro processing among others.

The Minister asserted that this new portal is open to all interested farmers who may go on and access the full gamut of support available. “The portal seeks to streamline the application process to ensure that all qualified farmers can tap the grants and incentives offered by the Ministry,” he said.

Grant allocation and opening of Farmers’ Registration Portal are key steps towards rejuvenating Trinidad and Tobago’s agricultural sector.

The challenge in hand is in the form of initiatives meant to increase the resilience and innovation potential in the sector, thus reinforcing government commitment towards sustainable agricultural development.