EDITORIAL: Support local farmers
BY all accounts, this year’s Agrofest was another successful event that drew thousands of patrons. Though all exhibits were not directly connected to agriculture – there was a very well-attended children’s zone featuring all manner of exciting rides – thousands still streamed into Queen’s Park for the main event. It is a very positive indication to see the high interest in this incubator of Barbadian craftsmanship, agricultural endeavours and innovation, especially creativity that marries agriculture and technology. It is hoped that the exhibitions plant a seed in the minds of young children to spark involvement in the sector.
This expression of interest is critical going forward for a country that has an urgent need for food security. Yet, the reality for farmers is that praedial larceny is a frustrating and painful battle. No wonder some of them throw in the towel, tired of being robbed of stock and crops while they sleep.
The time has come to finally reduce this abhorrent practice. We admit it may never be stopped entirely, but clearly there needs to be serious action taken. The Food and Agriculture Organisation estimates that 98 per cent of farmers in the Caribbean are hit by praedial larceny, which costs millions of dollars annually. In response, Jamaica established a Praedial Larceny Unit in 2015, making several arrests since the unit was formed, introducing tracking mechanisms for stock and produce, and embarking on educational campaigns for police forces, communities, government agencies, businesses and hotels.
Barbados has taken some steps to deal with praedial larceny. The arrests of four persons last year sent a strong signal that the state is serious in executing its duty. However, while stiffer legislation is on the cards, it has yet to be passed. These proposed laws are set to introduce higher fines applied to those guilty of stealing agricultural products. There are also measures for special inspectors to assist with the policing of farmers, who would have to produce certificates that confirm their authenticity.
Some might argue that it may not be the time to fully address praedial larceny, given the current focus on Barbados’ economic position, falling foreign reserves, and credit rating downgrades. However, it is best to strike while the iron is hot; that is, interest in agriculture as an industry is probably at a high since Agrofest. What better way to convince those in the sector and those keen on joining that their livelihood and hard work will be protected as best as possible?
Additionally, there needs to be a massive push towards buying local produce and products, in a bid to cut down on food imports and decrease foreign reserves going out of the country. More importantly, however, it just makes sense that we become as self-sustainable as possible while using home-grown, wholesome foods that could help in the fight against non-communicable diseases.
As a stakeholder, Government has its role to play from the legislative and judicial angles. However, the public too must get on board, realising that there are a few ways we can alleviate our country and by extension ourselves of some of the economic burdens experienced.