Enhancing food security is a tall order for any territory that imports practically everything. Although bound to entail a difficult and at times challenging process, that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be started.
Not only are locally-produced groceries fresher and usually healthier, but they make the island less dependent on shipments from abroad.
This increases resilience, especially considering that hurricanes are prevalent in the area. A bad storm can easily interrupt the inbound flow of goods, with all possible consequences.
Two announcements in recent days indicate ongoing efforts made in this sense. One is fishermen receiving upgraded boat equipment and gear (see related story) after completing a series of environmental workshops organised by Nature Foundation St. Maarten.
Designed to promote practices that help preserve fish stocks, the knowledge gained and tools of the trade acquired should also allow them to improve their results. It concerns only four for now, but others will no doubt be stimulated too. They were eligible to request up to US $1,500 in pre-approved purchases, which included items such as fish-finders, marine machinery and wire rolls for fish traps.
Each received a custom-made 3D-printed gauge to measure legal and recommended catch sizes for queen conch and Caribbean spiny lobster, supporting more sustainable harvesting. Workshop topics included responsible use of Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs) and the creation of a cultural archive documenting the country’s fishing heritage.
The second example is the first two loan recipients under the E6 Country Package initiative following completion of the 12-week Agriculture Business Academy, as reported in the Friday/Saturday edition of this newspaper. The programme was designed to strengthen St. Maarten’s farming and fishery sectors through structured training, mentorship and access to financing. Graduates of the Academy became eligible to apply for up to US $50,000 at a preferential interest rate of 2%, providing what organisers described as a practical pathway from training to viable businesses. Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication Grisha Heyliger-Marten called agriculture a key pillar for economic diversification, food security and resilience.
Qredits said it remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs through accessible financing and mentorship, while the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication
(TEATT) plans to continue working with partners to advance E6-aligned initiatives aimed at delivering tangible results for entrepreneurs and communities.
To be sure, much more will be needed, such as adequate market access. In this regard it is good to note that supermarkets seem open to carrying home-grown produce. That partly has to do with people becoming more conscious of what they consume.
So yes, the road ahead appears long and winding, while filled with obstacles. However, it’s one the island must embark upon.
