A demonstration farm in Georgetown, an initiative spearheaded by the Taiwan Technical Mission in collaboration with local farmers, was launched recently, with the Taiwan Embassy describing it as “a major milestone in the pursuit of strengthened food security and agricultural resilience”.
A press release said the initiative represents a renewed commitment to rebuilding better and more sustainably in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, a category 4 cyclone that significantly impacted agriculture on July 1.
At the launching event, Taiwan Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Fiona Huei-Chun Fan, spoke of the project’s broader vision.
“This farm is not just about growing crops — it is a hub for innovation, learning, and resilience. Together, we are not simply recovering from the hurricane’s impact; we are creating a stronger, more sustainable agricultural sector for the future.”
Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl, the Ministry of Agriculture engaged with the Taiwan embassy to address the urgent need to restore agricultural productivity. In response, Taiwan allocated US$184,000 and dispatched two agricultural specialists to assist local farmers in September.
Their work over the past two months has been instrumental in reviving agricultural systems and introducing sustainable techniques.
At the Orange Hill Biotechnology Centre, the specialists, with the support of the ministry and the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, have produced a variety of vegetable seedlings, including lettuce, sweet peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers, as well as papayas, squash, and watermelons.
These seedlings have been distributed to farmers, equipping them to jumpstart production and recover from the impact of the hurricane.
Additionally, the team is promoting backyard gardening initiatives nationwide, empowering families to grow their food.
“This effort contributes not only to household food security but also to building a resilient and self-sufficient community,” the release said.
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar and Fan toured the vegetable nursery.
Gonsalves and Caesar expressed gratitude for Taiwan’s swift and generous support, with the prime minister thanking the government and people of Taiwan for their unwavering commitment to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Caesar said collaboration has not only enhanced seedling production but also transferred vital cultivation knowledge to our farmers, fostering long-term resilience in the agricultural sector.
Fan echoed these sentiments, praising the dedication of the farmers and the collaborative spirit that made the project possible.
“Taiwan is proud to stand alongside the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, not just in recovery but in shaping a stronger, more sustainable agricultural future,” she said.
The press release said that the demonstration farm is a testament to the enduring partnership between Taiwan and SVG.
“It symbolises hope, innovation, and a shared commitment to building a brighter and more resilient future,” the release said.