Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Mission Statement A professional and highly motivated staff providing efficient, effective, quality services to the agricultural community (farming, fishing, forestry) to stimulate maximum production for local consumption, export and increased incomes through the sustainable use of natural resources.

Vision Statement An agricultural sector that is globally competitive, ensures food security and sustainable livelihoods for the Nation and the conservation of our natural environment.

Guiding Principles To Facilitate Agricultural Development through the following values: Efficiency, Impartiality, Transparency, Responsiveness, Professionalism.

Key Activities

Published April 2011

•

Chief Author/Information Specialist/ Planning Officer: • Kimberly M. Thomas

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Provide technical advice (support) to key stakeholders - farmers, fisher folks and forestry, agro-processors Provide policy advice for the further development of the Sector Provide training for all those involved in the Sector (including youth and existing agriculturalists) Data & Information (marketing, technical GIS) to stakeholders Develop and maintain public infrastructure (access roads, drains, fishing centres, maritime monitoring) Provide support services, such as plant propagation, pests and disease control, technical support in irrigation development, Represent the sector locally and internationally Undertake Research and Development. Provide technology support for the Sector - Crops; Livestock; Fisheries; Forestry Manage Government estates, forest reserves and protected areas , fishing assets and resources Develop and maintain linkages with stakeholders Promote marketing and investment opportunities, including seeking financing for sector development Public Awareness Administrative support for the work of the Ministry Regulatory and policy development Allow those stakeholders involved in agriculture, forestry and fishing to see that their contribution to national economic growth is appreciated To create general awareness of the importance of agriculture amongst the general public

Editor/Assistant Author/Chief Agricultural Officer: • Daniel Lewis Data Collection & Statistical Support: • Jude Houston • Adel Hagley • Sharmia Rodney • Cathyann Mc Intyre Administrative Support: • Adel Hagley • Gregory Delsol Ministry of Agriculture Botanical Gardens, Tanteen, St. Georges Grenada Tel: 473-4402708 • Fax: 473-440-4191 Email: [email protected]. Website: www.gov.gd/min-agriculture.html

This Review has been produced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries with assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) with financing from the European Union’s (EU’s) Special Framework of Assistance (GCP/ RLA/167/EC SFA2006 & SFA2007).

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 1

Table of Contents Acronyms FOREWORD Permanent Secretary’s Remarks Introduction Dynamics of Grenada’s Agricultural Sector Performance of the Fruit, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors Strategic Focus Operations Policy Directive Table 8: Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future Performance of the AgroProcessing Subsector Strategic Focus Operations Policy Directive Table 10: Agro-Processing Subsector SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future Performance of the Livestock Subsector Strategic Focus Operations Policy Directive Table 14: Livestock Subsector SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future Performance of the Fisheries Subsector Strategic Focus Operations Policy Directive Table 15: Fisheries Subsector SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future

3 4 5 6 8 9 12 12 14 14 14 15 16 17 17 18 18 19 20 20 21 22 22 23 24 25 25 26 26

Acronyms Performance of the Forestry Subsector

27

The University Of The West Indies

48

Strategic Focus

28 29 29 30

The Chinese Agricultural Mission

48

Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture

Operations Policy Directive Table 16: Forestry Subsector SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future Performance of the Cocoa Subsector Strategic Focus Operations Policy Directive Table 18: Cocoa Subsector SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future Performance of the Nutmeg Subsector Strategic Focus Operations Policy Directive Table 20: Nutmeg Subsector SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future Performance of the Spice Subsector Strategic Focus Operations Policy Directive Table 23: Spice Subsector SWOT Analysis Projects for the Future NGOs Contribution to Agriculture Development in 2009

30 31 32 32 33 34 34 35 37 37 38 39 39 40 42 42 42 43 43 44

African Caribbean Pacific

GCFL

NMTPF

AHFS

Agricultural Health and Food Security

Grenada Commercial Fisheries Limited

National Medium Term Priority Framework

GCNA

NP

National Production

ART

GCNA

Grenada Cocoa Association

OAS

48

Agency for Rural Transformation

Grenada Cooperative Nutmeg Association

Organization of American States

CABA

GDBS

51

Grenada Bureau of Standards

OECS

Caribbean Agriculture Research and Development Institute

Caribbean Agri-Business Association

Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States

CANARI

Caribbean Natural Resource Institute

GDP

Gross Domestic Product

Ministry of Agriculture’s 4H Movement

53

GEF

Global Environment Facility

OECS-ESDU Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States/ Environmental and Sustainable

GFAFO at a Glance!

CAP

Conservation Action Plan

CARDI

54 55

Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute

CARICOM

Caribbean Community and Common Market

Fruit, Vegetables and Root Crop Subsectors in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

57

CARIWIN

Livestock Subsector in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

46

The Food and Agriculture Organization

46

The European Union

47

GRENCODA Grenada Community Development Agency

OPAAL

OECS Protected Areas and Associated Livelihood

PCL

Produce Chemist Laboratory

SFA

Special Framework of Assistance

SSOP

Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures

SWOT

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats

TCP

Technical Cooperation Programme

GFAFO

Grenada Federation of Agricultural and Fisheries Organisation

Caribbean Water Initiative

GFFF

CDB

Conventional Biological Biodiversity

Grenada Fish Friday Festival

GFNC

58

CFIA

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Grenada Food and Nutrition Council

GRENROP

Fisheries Subsector in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

59

CIDA

Canadian International Development Agency

Grenada Network of Rural Women Producers

HACCP

Policy Directive

59 59 60 61

CIRAD

Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement (French Research Centre)

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point

ICCAT

International Commission of the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna

TNC

The Nature Conservancy

UNCBD

United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity

IFAD

International Funds for Agricultural Development

UNCCD

United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

IICA

Inter American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture

UNCTAD

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

IMU

Irrigation Management Unit

UNDP

United Nation Development Programme

ISO

International Organization for Standardization

UNFF

United Nations Forum on Forest

ITC

International Trade Centre

USAID

MDGs

Millennium Development Goals

United States Agency for International Development

USDA

MNIB

Marketing and National Importing Board

United States Department of Agriculture

MOA

Ministry of Agriculture

UWI

NaDMA

National Disaster Management Authority

University of the West Indies

VAT

Value Added Tax

NAWASA

National Water and Sewage Authority

VHF/SSB

Very High Frequency/ Single Side Band

NDFG

National Development Foundation of Grenada

WIBDECO

NGO

Non-Governmental Organization

Windward Island Banana Development and Exporting Company

WTO/SPS

World Trade Organization/ Sanitation Phyto-sanitary

Review of Agriculture in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Projects for the Future Articles Farm to Table? – An Interesting Question – But What Does It Mean By Pancy Cross Growing Potential for Agri-Food Stakeholders in Agro-Processing in Grenada By Leonard St. Bernard

63

Meteorological Observations 2009

66

Net Food/Agricultural Trade Balance

68

Contact Information

69 70 71

Figures Tables

Support Received from Collaborating Institutions and/ or Donors

2 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

ACP

References

Back Inside Cover

CRFM

Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism

CSO

Central Statistical Office

CTA

Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation

EIA

Environmental Impact Assessments

EU

European Union

FAO

Food and Agriculture Organization

GAB

Grenada Association of Beekeepers

GAFY

Grenada Agriculture Forum for Youths

GAP

Good Agricultural Practices

GASAP

Grenada Association of Small Agro Processors

GCA

Grenada Cocoa Association

GCADP

Grenada Commercial Agricultural Development Project

NOTE: All prices/values are quoted in Eastern Caribbean Dollars. Exchange rate EC$1 = US$0.37 GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 3

Foreword

Permanent’s Secretary Remarks that can be consulted by important stakeholders in the agri-food sector to make very informed decisions, because of the wealth of credible and up to date information contained therein. The 2009 review promises to be equally informative and useful for all interested persons who depend on this document to source important information. The experience gained during the production of the 2008 review no doubt has been well documented. The qualitative improvement that readers will observe in this 2009 review as compared to that of 2008 is a reflection of the unwavering quest of the Ministry of Agriculture to continually improve the review.

Hon. Michael Denis Lett Minister for Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

F

As was the case in 2008, the agriculture sector during 2009 was faced with colossal challenges particularly as it relates to high inputs costs, prevalence of invasive species, marketing, praedial larceny, lower than normal precipitation and poor quality farm labour among others. Despite these intractable problems, the Ministry of Agriculture, with support from many of its collaborating institutions, worked assiduously with farmers, fisher folks and other important stakeholders to ensure that the sector received the kind of quality attention and technical support it deserved.

ollowing the successful production of the 2008 Agriculture Review, which essentially, was the first edition of what hopefully would be a yearly initiative, I am once again absolutely delighted to be associated with the production of another Annual Review, i.e. for the year 2009. It is noteworthy to point out that irrespective of the formidable challenges impacting As Minister with responsibility for the the agri-food sector in 2009 and the prevailpivotal agri-food sector, I found the 2008 ing financial difficulties Grenada experiagriculture review very informative, exceedenced during that year, a growth of 10.17 % ingly comprehensive and extremely reader was recorded in the agriculture industry, the friendly. There is no doubting that the 2008 highest for any major sector of the econreview encapsulated in a very succinct way, omy. In fact, most other sectors contractthe performance of all the important sub ed in 2009. This performance by a sector sectors of the agri-food sector in 2008. which was so devastated a few years earlier It is my sincerest hope that important stake- by Hurricane Ivan, no doubt is a very enholders involved in the agri-food sector, stu- couraging sign. The Ministry of Agriculture dents, researchers, teachers and policy mak- will continue to spare no effort in providing ers have made and continue to make very all the necessary resources to engender susgood use of the review. In an era when in- tainability, and create an enabling environformation is so critical for decision making ment for the continued development of the at all levels, I am supremely confident that agri-food sector in Grenada. the review represents a fantastic document 4 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

In 2009, the Ministry of Agriculture placed heavy emphasis on programmes geared at: • • • • • • •

the agricultural sector was severely damaged, recent investments in the sector are showing very encouraging signs. This most noticeable includes the fact that many farmers are returning to their farms, increased opportunities and interests are being taken up and expressed in value added/Agro-Processing activities, and increased agricultural output in major commodities such as cocoa, fruits, vegetables and fish.

Enhancing the island’s food security; Plant propagation; Support to the cocoa and nutmeg sub sectors; Value addition; Disaster Risk Management; Small ruminants development; Employment generation in the rural sector; etc.

The support received from collaborating institutions in 2009 is worthy of recognition and acknowledgement. The FAO, IICA, the European Union, CARDI, the University of the West Indies, the Caribbean Development Bank, the Chinese Agricultural Mission, the International Trade Centre, the UNDP, the St. George’s University, the USDA, the CTA, the University of Trinidad and Tobago, the OECS Secretariat, CARICOM, the UNCCD, USAID, TNC and other Regional and International Organizations, have all contributed in no small measure towards the overwhelming successful performance of the agri-food sector in 2009. Without the tangible support of these institutions, there is no doubt that many of the projects and other interventions made in 2009 would not have been possible. Let me take this opportunity to express personally, my sincerest and most profound gratitude and appreciation to the European Union, the FAO, staff of the Ministry of Agriculture and other stakeholders of the agri-food sector, whose significant contributions and support impacted on the timely production of this review. I sincerely hope that persons using this review find it intellectually stimulating, informative and very resourceful.

Mr. Aaron S. Francois Permanent Secretary

T

he Government of Grenada has recently identified the agri-business sector as one of five strategic sectors leading in transforming Grenada’s national economy in the next few years. This decision is coming at a time when globally there is an urgent call by the international community, including the FAO, World Bank and G8 Group of Countries to reinvest in agriculture. The recent financial and economic crisis (one of the worst in world history since the Great Depression), and the ongoing threat of global food crisis, have all contributed to massive increases in global hunger, poverty, social and political unrest. To help to alleviate these serious problems, the agricultural sector is expected to play a very critical role in reducing poverty and hunger, create employment and improve rural livelihoods. For us in Grenada, the agricultural sector has long been recognized as one of the major economic sectors. Despite the setbacks created by Hurricanes Ivan and Emily in 2004 and 2005 respectively, during which

In order to fuel and accomplish the sustained growth in the agricultural sector that we aim for, efforts must continue to be placed on critical areas of the sector in a very strategic manner. Addressing major production inefficiencies by ensuring that all our producers have the right production inputs/technologies, including access to the right technical training, the organization of the production environment and timely supply of fertilizers and other inputs, are just a few that are paramount. Another important and critical issue is that of markets. Action must be taken to ensure that market opportunities are available for commodities and that the commodities produced meet market standards. Significantly increasing overall production in some key commodities must also be central to our strategy in an effort to reduce food insecurity, increase foreign exchange earnings, reduce rural unemployment and stimulate overall economic growth. This second issue of Grenada’s Annual Agricultural Review must therefore be seen in the context of providing an opportunity to stakeholders to review and analyse current strategies, programmes and projects undertaken in the agricultural sector. Growth in the sector is inherently linked to the types of policies, programmes and projects and how well these policies, programmes and projects are implemented. It is my hope, as Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, that this issue of the Annual Agricultural Review will serve as both a catalyst and a platform, to stimulate further development make the agribusiness a very thriving industry in Grenada.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL A AGRICULTURE REVIEW EVIEW 09 | 5

Introduction

Introduction

Continued

the competitiveness of the various subsectors.

• Mirabeau Propagation Station

G

renada’s agriculture remains the stronghold that fuels the country’s rural economy. Over the last two centuries, the agrarian sector has transitioned from predominantly large estate, farm-based enterprises, to multiple small farm holdings. Farm and fishing enterprises contribute significantly to economic activities in rural regions of the island and are often the most reliable source of employment in many rural communities. The pivotal role of Agriculture in developing countries like Grenada should never be undervalued. The imperatives of the agrarian sector range from its critical function of ensuring national food security, to the economic functions of maintaining livelihoods and more recently, the mandate to sustain and protect the environment. Perhaps this is the most crucial era for a concentrated focus on Agriculture Development even as the world witnesses global economic instability. In 2009, in less than 24 months, world food prices have escalated to unprecedented levels (IICA 2009:5). To cushion the effects of the harsh and turbulent economic times, agriculture development must be given the kind of priority and attention it deserves.

Agriculture in Grenada is now at a crossroad; a time to reinvent and strategize for a sustainable economic future versus the alternative of maintaining the status quo i.e. doing business the old way, without strategic planning, innovation, adaptation of new technologies and formulating and implementing key policies geared at propelling the sustainable development of the agri-food sector.

tected culture and modernized farming techniques have been underutilized.

Despite these challenges, the agri-food sector is laden with opportunities. Several interventions are prescribed to dynamically change the landscape of agriculture in Grenada. One of the most feasible options stems from the processing of primary agriculture products to value added products. Obviously, Agro-Processing requires proThe sector still battles with a myriad of duction volumes and undoubtedly investchallenges; the continuous struggle to re- ments. gain its prominence in the production of traditional crops; (cocoa, nutmegs, bananas The year under review, i.e. 2009, marked the and spices after it was dreadfully decimated beginning of negotiations with renowned by two hurricanes within a one year period), regional agro-processors such as Barons insufficient resources to enforce agriculture Ltd, which specializes in production of policies, limited investments in the sector, pepper sauces, marinades and salad dresspraedial larceny, obsolete farming systems, ings and Winfresh, known traditionally for insufficient research and development, dis- its marketing and export of bananas is curorganized markets, miniscule credit and ac- rently pursuing the development of a more cess to credit for producers and the lack of diversified range of fruits, including agro processing. an ‘agri-business’ approach to farming. In 2009, significant strides were made in adapting irrigation technology which has mitigated the impacts of the 2009 drought. However, other technologies such as pro-

6 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Reformation of marketing institutions such as the Grenada Cocoa Association, Grenada Cooperative Nutmeg Association and the Minor Spices Cooperative into Private Companies, could also significantly improve

It is anticipated that the investments and production stimulation injected by the regional agro-processors will result in greater increases in the sector’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product in the upcoming years. Estimates from Grenada’s Central Statistics Office on agricultural export earnings, exclusive of Agro-Processing, have also shown a minimal increase in 2009 when compared with 2008. Total export earnings in 2009 amounted to EC$23.5 million, which is 30% of total exports compared with the EC$22.5 million achieved in 2008, which was 30.4% of total exports (See Figure 2). As was the case in 2008, the Fisheries Subsector contribution to total national exports in 2009 was highest of the entire agricultural subsector. It is noteworthy that the export earnings from the fishing subsector represented 13.3% of National Export Earnings and 45 % of Agricultural Exports( See Figure 3 & Table 1). It can be concluded that Grenada’s agricultural sector’s performance, in a general sense, mirrored that of 2008 although there was a marginal increase in output when compared with that of 2008.

Percentage by Economic Activity

9.00%

8.51%

8.00% 7.00% 6.00% 5.00%

4.50%

4.60%

2005

2006 Years

6.62%

6.25%

5.75%

4.00% 3.00% 2.00% 1.00% 0.00% 2004

2007

2008

2009

Figure 2: Agricultural Exports 2004-2009 50 Millions EC Dollars

Nonetheless, despite the restraints and woes of the past, statistics show an increasingly positive performance in the agriculture sector which indicates signs of revitalization. Prior to hurricanes Ivan and Emily, the agricultural sector’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product was 8.65% in 2003, 6.25% in 2008 and for 2009, it was 6.62%, that is a 0.30 % minimal increase compared to that of 2008 (See Figure 1). Nonetheless, it is instructive to point out that there was a 10.17% growth in the agricultural sector in 2009 which is equivalent to a positive change of 8.47 million dollars in value.

Figure 1: Grenada’s Agriculture Sector Contribution to GDP

40 30

$31,881,300 $43,272,300

$21,670,100

$23,546,900

20 $22,582,300

$18,793,600

10 0 2004

2005

2006 Years

2007

2008

2009

Figure 3: Agriculture Subsectors Percentage Contribution to Total Agricultural Export Earnings

Bananas = 0% Cocoa = 20% Nutmegs = 30% Mace = 3% Fresh Fruits & Vegetables = 2% Fish = 45% Other = 0%

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 7

Pest Management Services

Spices

AgroTourism

8 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 Root Crop

Agronomy

Livestock

Livestock & Veterinary Services

Grenada’s Agriculture Sector

Fruit & Vegetable

Engineering Services

AgroProcessing

Produce Chemist Laboratory

Forestry

Forestry Services

Fisheries

Fisheries Services

Agricultural Services

Commodities

Biotechnology Research & Development

Administration

Extension Services

Planning/ Marketing & Communication

Dynamics of Grenada’s Agricultural Sector Subsectors

Performance of the

and

Fruits, Vegetables Root Crops Subsectors

GRENADA’S ANNUAL A AGRICULTURE REVIEW EVIEW 09 | 9

Performance of the Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors

A

gricultural diversification efforts over the years have resulted in the production of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and the continuation of traditional root crops. The majority of these products have been consumed by the local market and the hospitality sector. In recent years, due to lack of storage facilities and other production related problems, there has been an upsurge of imports especially in vegetables and root crops. Nonetheless, these subsectors are the pillars of Grenada’s National Food and Nutrition Security and must therefore be given high priority in terms of developmental support.

Bananas remain one of the most critical staples in the Grenadian food basket and yet its production has consistently declined, despite the Ministry of Agriculture’s interventions which included provision of tissue culture plantlets. The constant decline in banana production at large is attributed to the invasion and spread of the Moko (Ralstonia solanacearum) since 1978, and the Back Sigatoka (Mycosphaella fijiensis) disease which was first detected in Grenada in November 2005. The invasion of the West Indian Fruit Fly also resulted in the loss of the fresh fruit export market, valued at EC$2 million per annum.

Despite the prevailing challenges faced by the fruits, vegetables and root crops subsectors, in 2009 the Marketing National Importing Board exported a gross total of 395,346 pounds of fresh produces to the UK, Trinidad, Toronto, Miami, New York and Anguilla at a value of $439,119, which represented a minimal decrease over the previous year 2008 (See Production Performance Tables 1, 2 and 3).

Table 1: Fruit Crops Subsector Performance Indicators 2006-2009 2006 Fruits Banana (ripen) Cantaloupe Golden Apple Mango Julie Orange Pineapples (hybrid) Pineapples (local) Plantain Pumpkins Soursop Watermelons Other Fruits Total Production

MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 1,280,044 8,533,627 16,170 107,800 104,481 696,542 48,864 325,760 42,915 286,100 6,398 42,653 723 4,820 72,671 484,473 29,368 195,789 3,232 21,545 60,135 400,903 468,643 3,124,287 2,133,645 14,224,300

2007 MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 1,124,564 7,497,093 18,511 123,407 141,324 942,160 64,680 431,200 36,342 242,280 6,516 43,440 327 2,180 62,192 414,613 30,629 204,193 8,870 59,132 58,884 392,560 464,423 3,096,154 2,017,262 13,448,413

*Assumption: MNIB purchases 15% of National Production

2008 MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 1,011,934 6,746,227 25,758 171,720 138,485 923,233 102,413 682,754 51,175 341,164 4,000 26,668 1,326 8,843 40,461 269,740 40,479 269,862 18,913 126,087 76,200 508,000 498,990 3,326,602 2,010,135 13,400,900

2009 MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 842,435 5,616,233 32,407 216,046 152,377 1,015,846 80,900 539,333 62,098 413,986 8,414 56,093 968 6,453 75,240 501,600 49,789 331,926 54,497 363,313 72,364 482,426 495,115 3,300,766 1,926,604 12,844,026

Performance of the Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors Continued

Table 2: Vegetables Subsector Performance Indicators 2006-2009 2006 Vegetables Beets Broccoli Cabbages Callaloo Carrots Cauliflower Christophine Cucumbers Lettuce Okras Patchoi Tomatoes Total Production

MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 2,226 14,838 157 1,047 48,826 325,507 34,304 228,693 7,368 49,120 3,268 21,787 15,629 104,195 35,759 238,394 24,714 164,760 10,333 68,889 21,063 140,420 65,708 438,053 310,177 2,067,847

2007

2008

MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 2,812 18,747 102 682 49,045 326,973 34,750 231,663 4,559 30,393 6,613 44,088 14,824 98,827 29,340 195,599 26,269 175,124 7,454 49,692 15,668 104,453 68,355 455,700 281,556 1,877,040

2009

MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 3,439 22,924 N/A 48,045 320,300 41,784 278,561 12,024 80,160 7,027 46,850 13,807 92,046 48,353 322,353 27,961 186,409 11,770 78,465 17,051 113,674 55,939 372,927 307,898 2,052,653

MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 2,627 17,513 147 980 59,145 433,273 36,281 375,206 11,488 96,586 7,671 51,140 11,976 113,173 43,223 354,820 34,849 232,326 16,174 107,826 17,714 158,093 59,436 596,240 300,731 2,004,873

2008 MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 306 2,043 17,271 115,140 623 4,153 10,437 69,580 38,784 258,558 3,951 26,340 19,787 131,913 91,159 607,728

2009 MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 196 1,306 44,232 294,880 1,060 7,066 12,898 85,986 42,412 282,746 34,361 229,073 21,723 144,820 156,882 1,045,877

*Assumption: MNIB purchases 15% of National Production

Table 3: Root Crops Subsectors Performance Indicators 2006-2009

Tuber & Root Crop Cassava Sweet Dasheen Eddoes Ginger Sweet Potatoes Tannia Yam Total Production

2006 MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 353 2,353 18,649 124,327 1,212 8,080 3,688 24,587 41,555 277,033 1,980 13,200 12,192 81,280 79,629 530,860

2007 MNIB NP Stats. Estimates 1,007 6,713 23,014 153,427 1,522 10,147 6,261 41,740 24,239 161,590 3,951 26,340 14,229 94,860 74,223 494,817

*Assumption: MNIB purchases 15% of National Production

10 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 11

Performance of the Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors

Performance of the Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors

Strategic Focus

Table 5: Purchases of Tissue Culture Plantlets 2005-2009

Continued

ect which was financed by the OAS under the National Export Strategy Export Competency Development Programme. The GCADP is intended to provide qualified farmers access to credit for working capital through the Grenada Development Bank which facilitates production and market access to the MNIB with price and market guarantees. The Cluster Formation Project was geared towards the strengthening of farmer’s cooperatives and so far several workshops have been conducted including the formation of five (5) agri-clusters.

The Ministry of Agriculture’s Biotechnology and Research Desk, Pest Management Unit, Agronomy, Extension and Agriculture Engineering Divisions have been working diligently towards the sustainable development of the fruits, vegetables and root crops subsectors. Ultimately, the objective is to ensure that these subsectors are sustained, remain competitive and serve the national food security needs as well as export viability. The Ministry’s Food Security Programme has also extended endowments to economically challenged members of the Operations Grenadian society, as a means of supplementing basis needs via the fruits, vegeta- The Ministry of Agriculture has focused intensely on the fruits, vegetables and root bles and root crops subsectors. crops subsectors especially in the past deAmong the efforts of the Ministry of Ag- cades. Concerted efforts were made in proriculture to strategically develop these sub- viding, facilitating and ensuring that the best sectors, are the contributions of collabo- planting materials were available, the adoprating organizations such as the Marketing tion of Integrated Management of pest and National Importing Board (MNIB). and diseases, the dissemination of sound The MNIB has instituted a number of technical advice, guidance and other extenprogrammes and projects geared towards sion services that would enable high quality increased production and competitive- food production, and the appropriate use ness which include the Grenada Com- of technology to ensure sustainable agrimercial Agricultural Development Project culture development and land use. All of (GCADP) which was officially launched in these functions have been carried out by the June 2009 and the Cluster Formation Proj- respective subsidiary divisions of the Min-

istry: Agronomy Division, Biotechnology and Research Desk, Extension Division, Pest Management Unit, Land Use Division and Farm and Machinery Unit. In 2009, all of the respective Divisions were able to realize their individual milestones. Collective achievements for the year 2009 were contributions to sustained livelihoods of farmers and food security since there were no dramatic declines in the production of any particular fruits, vegetables and root crops, except bananas, which was enormously affected by the drought that affected the island earlier in the year. There was a notable increase in exports in other crops, especially soursop. Despite the harsh drought in 2009, inoperative irrigation systems at Ashenden Propagation Station and Shadehouse at Mirabeau Propagation Station, the Agronomy Division was able to increase plantlet production by 15% when compared to production in 2008. Highly economical fruits such as soursop saw up to a 100% increase compared with the year 2008. There was also a 13.2% increase in plant sales and distribution (See Table 4).

Table 4: Plantlet Production & Distribution for 2005-2009

Plants Citrus Mango Minor Fruits & Spices Ornamentals Totals

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Produc- Distri- Produc- Distri- Produc- Distri- Produc- Distri- Produc- Distrition bution tion bution tion bution tion bution tion bution 6,939 9,420 9,328 6,283 12,369 6,243 12,189 8,236 5,907 5,487 1,262 589 166 949 1,561 3,162 3,054 5,211 3,213 4,094

5,134

6,334

8,329

9,718

4,812

8,169

8,173

11,863

12,583

1,113 13,650

1,577 15,889

3,769 22,518

4,272 16,552

4,187 22,222

4,395 21,709

4,357 30,848

7,324 23,816

4,436 27,417

2,936 21,576

12 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Continued

Plantlets Purchased Bananas Total Bananas Plantains Pineapples Tannias

2005 3,991 *42,316 46,307

2006 34,763 *10,315 45,078

2007 100,572 *17,428 118,000

2008 65,555 *19,445 85,000

2009 48,000

N/A N/A

1,240 7,932

907 3,343

20,000 45,000

48,000 51,380 -

2007 300 150 1750 740 3020

2008 1560 180 N/A N/A 1712

2009 468 448 2,816 456 172

*Under the Free Trade initiative to revitalize the Banana Industry in Grenada Plantlets were distributed on a complimentary basis to Farmers.

Table 6: Tissue Culture Plantlets Production 2005-2009 Tissue Culture Plants Banana Orchid Pineapple Plantain Tannia

2005 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

2006 N/A N/A N/A N/A 1400

Table 7: Distribution of Irrigation Technology by Agricultural District in 2008 & 2009 No. of Farmers Receiving Irrigation Installation Agricultural District 2008 2009 Northern District (St. Patrick) 18 1 Southern District ( St. George & St. David) 20 15 Eastern District ( St. Andrew) 13 20 Western District ( St. John & St. Mark) 1 1 Carriacou 0 1

In addition to the provision of technical advice and other extension services to farmers, the Extension Division succeeded in the provision of training for over twenty (29) farmers and extension officers in Vegetable Production, Fruit Trees Production, Rodent Control and Shadehouse Management. The Pest Management Unit also facilitated a number of joint training exercises with the Extension Division, Agronomy and the Grenada Cocoa Association as support services to ensure agricultural knowledge impartation to farmers. However, other methodologies for information transfer and compliance were prescribed for future years

which included; the establishment of demonstration plots at each agricultural district, scheduled quarterly visits and the offer of incentives through farm competitions and awarding of prizes for farmers with best orchards, vegetables and root crop farms that are compliant with farm procedures. The Pest Management Unit’s West Indian Fruit Fly Project was also noted for its significant strides in eradicating the pest. The Land Use Department’s major success for 2009 can be attributed to its subsidiary Irrigation Management Unit. In 2009, thirty-eight (38) farmers received irrigation sys-

tems, which were most pertinent in mitigating the consequences of the harsh drought period in 2009, thus preventing significant losses (See Table 7). Assessment for the installation of irrigation systems were conducted for an additional nineteen (19) farmers in 2009. It is estimated that 80% of vegetable farmers now have irrigation systems. The IMU hopes to extend irrigation to root crop farmers in the upcoming year. Already, a few root crop farmers (producers of dasheen, tannia, eddoes, cassava and sweet potatoes) have been using irrigation systems. The Farm and Machinery Pool was also able to provide 156 farmers with

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 13

Performance of the Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors Continued

plowing, rotovating and ridging services in Table 8: Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors SWOT Analysis the year 2009 at a subsidised cost of EC$65 per hour. Major Strengths Major Weaknesses Notwithstanding the major achievements • Diversified Fruits, Vegetables and • Limited access to credit of 2009, much effort must be given to furRoot Crops Subsectors • Inconsistency in Quality Produce ther development of the Fruits, Vegetables • High local consumption of locally • Inconsistencies in agricultural inputs and Root Crops subsectors. It has been produced Vegetables from input suppliers noted that some crops, for example toma- • High interest in Vegetables Produc- • Limited storage facilities (refrigerated toes and coconuts remain as much as 80% tion, several producers at different facility) and therefore high occurrencbelow pre-Hurricane Ivan Production levwatershed zones es of glut, scarcity and spoilage. els. The Agronomy Division’s and Biotech- • Favourable climate and relatively good • Inadequate and sometimes unreliable nology Unit’s, through their Propagation farm mechanism services soil for Fruits, Vegetables and Root Programme, must work tirelessly to ensure • Insufficient use of science and techCrops Production the necessary planting materials required to • Sustained strong demand for Fruits, nology; limited research and developrehabilitate not only the fruit production ment Vegetables and Root Crops but also that of other economical crops • Availability of Irrigation Technology • Limited interest in Root Crops pro(See Tables 4 & 6 ). There is also a critical • Relatively good Pests and Diseases duction by farmers and establishment need for a quality assurance programme of of Orchards Quarantine Systems fruit, vegetables and root crops. These sub• Limited Financial Capacity to eradisectors are essential to the Food and Nucate Pest and Diseases trition Security of Grenada and therefore the relevant strategic interventions must be Major Opportunities Major Threats prioritized.

Policy Directive Numerous policies were addressed in 2009 for the Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsector ranging from Pest Management and Quarantine, as well as increase in food production for food security through the use of irrigation technology and the production of planting materials. Policies that would significantly change the dynamics of Grenada’s agriculture to thriving successes in the future are embedded in value addition to fruits, vegetables and root crops, zoning of production and the introduction and implementation of an agricultural land use policy, a water use policy for irrigation and a policy for incentives on good agriculture practices. Technicians also recommended the institution of a Water Resource Management Unit in the Ministry. They have indicated that a legislative review and drafting of the Act for Water Resource Management has been completed with funding from the Food and Agriculture Organizations. Efforts must therefore be made to implement this initiative.

• • • • • •

Possibility of Import substitution with • replacement by local Root Crops Productions • Emerging markets for health fruits • such as the Annonas (Soursop etc.) High Demand for Fresh Fruits in external Markets High demand of Fruits by Agro-Processing Easy access to information and training Possibility of Increasing foreign exchange earnings

Performance of the

Agro-Processing Subsector

Importation of Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Invasion of Pest and Diseases Natural Disasters

Projects for the Future Several projects can emerge from the prevailing weaknesses and opportunities that are listed in the SWOT Analysis. Immediate ones are the eradication of the West Indian Fruit Fly Pest, Moko and Black Sigatoka Diseases Eradication Programmes, the redevelopment of the Banana Industry, the establishment of large acreages of orchards in fruits crops and projects that support increased production in root crops, especially in light of the necessity to increase food security. Also, concerted technical assistance must be given to improving and encouraging the use of shadehouse technology, which would accelerate the cultivation of vegetables. Often there is a deficiency in the procurement of the appropriate inputs (including seeds and fertilizers) which are necessary to ensure that the shadehouse technology when used is successful.

14 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 15

Performance of the Agro-Processing Subsector

T

he Agro-Processing Subsector in Grenada is considered as thriving when compared to that of other Windward Islands. It is made up of a few medium sized agro-processors and over 265 small agro-processors. The majority of agro-processors produce jams, jellies, confectioneries and sauces. Sixty-five percent (65%) of them are women. The subsector also generates self employment and approximately 1,325 temporary jobs. A number of new entrants entered the subsector after Hurricane Ivan. It has been estimated, conservatively, that the sector generates EC$10.6 million per annum. However, there is significant potential for improved performance since the sector has not significantly tapped into the metropolitan markets in the UK, USA and Canada where many members of the Diaspora reside. Nonetheless, many small agro-processors have been distributing their products through informal arrangements with small middlemen who are established in these markets. According to a resent research conducted, twenty-four percent (24%) of the small agro-processors claimed they have access to export markets. Electronic marketing via the internet has also been a popular route used by agro-processors to access many regional and international markets.

Strategic Focus The Ministry of Agriculture’s Produce Chemist Laboratory (PCL) continues to equip agro-processors with the knowledge and skills needed to develop quality products, and has played a significant role in assisting these agro-processors to enhance their skills in product development. Analytical services and facilities to aid production are also key functions of the Laboratory. Unfortunately, due to the refurbishment activities at the Laboratory in 2009, the latter of these services were not available.

• Ministry of Agricultures Produce Chemist Laboratory

16 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

The Grenada Bureau of Standards (GDBS), which is a statutory body that serves under the Ministry of Trade, is the authority for enforcing standards in Grenada. The Bureau worked incessantly in 2009 to en-

Performance of the Agro-Processing Subsector

Continued

sure the compliance of standards by agro- Figure 4: Agro-Processing Subsector Performance Indicators processors together with the implementation of a programme for quality assurance Agro-Processing Sector Contribution Statistics Not Available throughout the agricultural sector. The Bu- to GDP reau of Standards and the Produce Chemist Total Number of Agro-Processors 265 approx. Laboratory often worked in collaboration. Employment Generated 1,325 approx. of 75% is Temporary EmHowever, major interventions by external ployment donor organizations have contributed sigValue of Exported Agro-processed ProdStatistics Not Available nificantly to the organizations’ successes. ucts The European Union/Food and Agriculture Organization via the SFA2006 Livelihood NB. Many of the products of agro-processed items are traded informally; as a result there is not a Project, has assigned funding of €200,000 true representation of their value from the CSO statistics. to improve the Agro processing subsector. That project, which began in 2008 and is being implemented by the Grenada Bureau Table 9: Processed Products Produced by Number of Agro-processors of Standards, has injected €80,000 in fundNumber of Processors ing in 2009 that is 40% of the total amount Agro Processor Grouped by Products Produced committed to the project. The Organiza- Dry Seasoning 8 tion of American States (OAS) has also Wet Seasoning and Related Products 17 provided individual technical assistance to Wheat Products 15 the Agro-Processing sector; in order to im13 prove safety, increase consumer confidence Small Processors: Beverages, Essence , Alcoholic Drinks Factory Processed: Bottled Drinks and Water 9 and improve on the appropriate documentation for the advancing of the potentially lu- Honey and Honey Products 56 crative traditional confectionery and foods. Confectionery, Snacks and Dried Fruits 30 This project was valued at US$50,000. Cassava Products 2 9 The Produce Chemist Laboratory led the Meat and Fish Products implementation of the Organization of Ice Cream and Dairy Products 4 American States (OAS) funded project Spice Vendors 43 which provided training in good agricul38 tural practices for farmers and growers of Craft and Cosmetic Products Wide Product Range 7 fresh produce and the implementation of the Herbs with Good Market, Processing and Export Potential Project. A sum of the establishment of a revolving fund at the activities which were implemented in 2009 US$20,000 was allocated for these initia- GDBS for procurement of packaging mate- for the purposes of improving the productives. rials and barcodes to assist agro-processors, tion and operational standards of agro-pro-

Operations Major achievements in Grenada’s AgroProcessing subsector evolved around the implementation of the EU/FAO Livelihood Development via the Agro-Processing Project, the Good Agricultural Practices for Farmers and Growers of Fresh Produce Project, the Herbs with Good Market Project and the Processing and Export Potential Project. Major successes in 2009 were: the registration of 265 agro-processors, publishing of an Agro-processors Directory,

(funded by FAO), the formation of Grenada Association of Small Agro-processors, upgrade of testing facilities at GDBS (with new equipment to assist agro-processors with quality control), the refurbishment of the Produce Chemist Laboratory and a series of trainings and workshops in which over 140 agro-processors were trained in business and technical skills. Due to limited resources, a number of agroprocessors did not receive training, specifically, those producing non food items. There is therefore a need to sustain project

cessors who were not trained in 2009 and also for reinforcement of lessons learnt by those who were trained.

Policy Directive Policies addressed by the Grenada Bureau of Standards in 2009 were mainly the certification of goods prior to export and the provision of the necessary technical and institutional assistance to ensure that quality products are manufactured and maintained. Product Development Services were also provided by the Produce Chemist Labo-

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 17

Performance of the Agro-Processing Subsector Table 10: Agro-Processing Subsector SWOT Analysis Major Strengths

Major Weaknesses

• •

•

• • • •

Wide variety of goods produced High level of enthusiasm by agro-processors Availability of most inputs Good level of basic skills Accessible and reliable support services for the subsector High demand for products

• • • • • •

Major Opportunities • • • •

Limited access to capital for AgroProcessing, this is a major barrier to new entrants Inconsistency in quality in many cases Lack of organization, coordinator in purchasing agricultural inputs at wholesale prices No large bulk storage facilities (refrigerated facilities) with storage space for rent Lack of a centralized processing facility that offers production services to agro-processors Inconsistency in production to adequately meet long-term demands No policy framework geared towards the development of the Agro-Processing subsector in Grenada

Major Threats

Growing demand on the external • market for agro-processed items Access to external markets has increased Easier access to information and training Increased foreign exchange

High imports of agro-processed items from Trinidad and South America which, invariably, are cheaper than those produced locally

ratory however, there is need for a more family kitchens and only 23% used commerstructured approach. cial kitchens. Unrelenting monitoring and evaluation of these facilities is extremely imGrenada’s Agro-Processing Subsector needs a portant to ensure food safety and quality aslarge scale supply of raw materials ad a cen- surance. Human Resource Capacity is also tralized and equipped production building. another critical issue that is dependent on The Ministry of Agriculture, together with the policy of the Ministry. There is a lack of other key collaborators, must seek to develop personnel to adequately service the subsecand institute a policy framework in which the tor especially in the areas of food technology, infrastructural developments for the sector science and chemistry. Due to the low salary can be facilitated. There is also an urgent need ranges offered for these professionals, many to institute extension services for the subsec- migrate. Also, professionals of this subsector tor. need to work with the newest technologies, techniques and equipment in order to guaranAccording to research conducted by Dr. Rectee the best results. cia Charles, it was found that 57% of small agro-processors prepared their products in their indoor family kitchens, 7% used outdoor 18 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Continued

Projects for the Future Local agro-processors have raised a number of issues that have been adversely impacting their subsector. Among concerns raised were: the absence of a central processing station which would inherently improve quality and possibly contribute to increased and organized production. However, some medium sized-large agro- processors such as the La Grenade Industry; the leading producers of jams and jellies, Noelville Ltd; the producer of the renowned Nutmed spray for pain relief, Grenada Chocolate Company; producers of the Grenada dark organic chocolate, Caribbean Agro Industries and Rum Distillers have more or less maintained their momentum in both regional and extra-regional export markets. Nonetheless, the exports are still in small quantities therefore much marketing intelligence is needed to assist these businesses to penetrate world markets.

Performance of the

Livestock

Subsector

There was also a call for research and development especially in the herbs for pharmaceuticals. These two areas are a potential ‘gold mine’ since various herbs have already been identified and have been traditionally used for medicinal healing of some noncommunicable sicknesses. It can be concluded however, that many developments have occurred in the AgroProcessing Subsector in 2009, ranging from the injection of direct assistance to small agro-processors by donor agencies, to the investments by new agro- processing companies (Barons and WinFresh) and intensive capacity building, led by the Grenada Bureau of Standards and the Produce Chemist Laboratory. The end results of these interventions are expected in the near future.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 19

Performance of the Livestock Subsector

Performance of the Livestock Subsector

renada’s Livestock Subsector mainly consists of poultry production, pig production, small ruminants (goats and sheep) production, rabbit production, cattle production and apiculture. Meat products are essential to the local dietary needs of the population. However, the sector has not been able to sufficiently supply the local market with livestock products. As a result, over 90% of the meat needs are imported. In 2009, meat imports into Grenada was valued at EC$38.6 million compared with EC$44.0 million in 2008. Poultry products hold the highest demand in the local market (See Figure 5).

Technical support was also extended to api- Table 12: Distribution of Demonstration Housing Facilities by Parishes culture. In 2009 there were about sixty beekeepers, unfortunately some are inactive. Parish Area Type Of Demonstration Large scale beekeepers in Grenada mainRaised floor goat house & Telescope and Pearls tain, on average, 200 hives whilst medium St. Andrew zero grazing of Dairy Cattle and small beekeepers tend up to 50 and 1 Corinth Raised floor goat house 20 hives, respectively. In three months, one St. David Marian Raised floor goat house hive has the potential to produce up to 2000 St. George gallons of honey. The Ministry of Agricul- St. John Dr. Belle Raised floor goat house ture therefore seeks to facilitate increased St. Patrick The Villa Raised floor goat house honey production up to 60,000 gallons in Carriacou Raised floor goat house order to grasp greater market share for honey locally, regionally and internationally.

G

Figure 5: Comparison of Local Poultry Meat Production vs. Imported Poultry Meat

Local Poultry Meat Production = 1,534,584 lbs (12%) Imported Poultry Meat = 11,298,634 lbs (88%)

Policy Directive

Apiculture production has been increasing unabatedly over the last few years and the future looks exceedingly promising. Grenada’s honey, which was branded as premium and has won four goal medals in interna- Table 11: Results on Animals Inspected tional markets, is being exported worldwide. Unfortunately, production has not been able Species to adequately supply the available markets Bovine including the local market. In 2009, local Ovine honey production amounted to an estimatCaprine ed 10,000 gallons. Apiculture has proven to be a lucrative and premium priced product Porcine on the international market. This can form Equine a niche market for agricultural products.

2008 No. of Cases 240 1020 1250 1500 40

2009 No. of Cases 245 1250 1560 1460 40

Strategic Focus The Ministry of Agriculture’s Livestock Division has worked relentlessly to assist livestock farmers to improve production and management as far as it relates to sanitation issues. The Division remains committed to ensuring a healthy animal population and the prevention of communicable diseases to humans consuming or rearing those animals (See Table 11) The Livestock Development Programme for 2009 received support from international donors, such as Grenada Rural Enterprise Project funded by IFAD who assisted with the development of the Laura Goat Facility. The Food and Agriculture Organization gave tremendous support in the rehabilitation of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory through the provision of laboratory

materials and equipment. Amongst many training opportunities provided to Livestock technicians, the USAID, USDA, the Common Wealth, IICA, CIRAD and CaribVet also provided invaluable support to the Veterinary and Livestock Agenda in 2009.

Operations In 2009 there was intensive focus on livestock production. There was an increased demand for locally produced poultry and pork, whilst the demand for small ruminants has remained unmet. The Division intervened by continuing the Artificial Insemination programme for cattle in which a new breed (Jersey) was introduced which is specially bred for high meat and milk production.

20 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

An innovative management approach for small ruminant production was also introduced. The management system involved housing improvement and feeding systems. The Division has been involved in the building of demonstration housing facilities and forage banks in all six (6) parishes and also in the sister isle of Carriacou (See Table 12). Statistics on Domestic Production for Pork, Beef and Small Ruminants were not available however, total meat importation of the above species amounts to 3,583,773.9 lbs which is valued at EC$12.5 M. Local production for cattle, sheep goat and pigs were estimated at 766,560 1bs, 484,065 1bs, 242,810lbs and 933, 660lbs respectively.

One of the main issues faced is the need for a comprehensive policy on the Poultry Industry. Recent policy statements anticipated the reduction of poultry imports by increasing local production. In 2009, poultry production accounted for 12% of the country’s consumption which was equivalent to 1,534,584 lbs, valued at EC$1.03 million, compared to local production of 12% in 2008 with an output of 1, 431,565 lbs (See Table 13 & Figure 5). The ultimate goal was to increase local production by 60% which warrants significant local investment in the sector. As far as egg production is concerned, Grenada remains self-sufficient. The traditional system for rearing small ruminants has resulted in an unprecedented increase in dog predation and praedial larceny which have become a deterrent to conventional farmers who rear animals with inadequate housing. A policy to encourage the new management system (housing or fencing of animals) must be pursued. Additionally, the new management systems also have implications for food security and safety. There is an exigency for land use policy, especially in the case of Carriacou where prime areas, traditionally used for livestock development, have been lost due to major hotels and real estate projects. Firm land use policies, and their strict enforcement for agriculture development on a whole, must be instituted together with the effective use of Government Estates for Livestock Production.

Continued

Table 13: Poultry Production in 2009 (Comparison Percentage and Value Increase (Decrease) with Production in 2008) Poultry Production 2009 Day Old Chicks Local Broilers

Amount

Description

403,837

193,540 broilers 18,648 layers Total value $ 7,672,920 Total value $184,795 Total value $4,436,874.20

1,534,584lbs

Turkey

36,959lbs

Eggs

8,289,569

ASL Hatchery (local) Imported 827 Cases (297,720 eggs)

212,188 Chicks

193,540 broilers 18,648 Layers

% Increase (decrease) & Increase (decrease) Value in EC$ 2.96% $15,319 9.97% $1,044,841.30 5.87% 459,791 eggs $229,895.49 10.5% -

• Zero Grazing of Cattle at Lloyd Noel’s Farm, Pearls St. Andrew’s

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 21

Performance of the Livestock Subsector

Projects for the Future

Figure 6: Livestock Subsector Performance Indicators Livestock Sector Contribution to GDP Total Number of Livestock Farmers Value of Exported Livestock Products

0.006% N/A N/A

Table 14: Livestock Subsector SWOT Analysis Major Strengths

Major Weaknesses

•

•

• •

•

The Sector is serviced by adequately trained and experienced staff (average of over 16 years experience) Sufficiently informed on trends in medicine and livestock development Attachment of a competent consultant specializing in livestock development to implement development strategies and to train all stakeholders Ready local market and demand for all livestock products

Major Opportunities • • • • •

•

• • • • •

Inadequate management structure in the Livestock Division Limited livestock promotional activities or incentives Absence of a long-term strategic plan to expand the sector Insufficient data collection Inconsistency in quality of feed material Limited access to intra-regional transportation to trade products such as honey

Major Threats

Programmes and Increased Govern- • ment Funding • Research and Development Accessible International Markets where there are demands for premium • livestock products, specifically honey Prospects for intra-regional trade Investment opportunities for local and international investors especially in the Poultry Industry (specifically Central Processing and Distribution Unit) Increased foreign exchange

Animals susceptibility to diseases and influenzas High competition from Imported Livestock Products Natural Disasters

22 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Continued

A resolute strategy is necessary for further development of the subsector. According to key stakeholders, such as members of Grenada Association of Poultry Producers, it is strongly opined that the Government should lend support to building capacity in farmers’ organizations, thereby empowering these groups and as a result, facilitating greater interest in the subsector and investments. Poultry stakeholders also subscribed to the view that investment in a Central Processing Unit, which is adequately linked to existing distribution channels, would extensively increase production and dynamically grow the subsector. A central egg distribution station was also recommended.

Performance of the

Fisheries Subsector

The Apiculture Industry requires a holistic strategic framework to promote its expansion. Key components of this strategy, as was identified by members of the beekeeping association, must include educational promotions on bees and their production systems, pest management and organized marketing and promotion, which also should take into consideration intra and extra regional distribution arrangements. There are tremendous opportunities for the livestock subsector, foremost are the opportunities in servicing the local markets. Technicians and stakeholders have also recommended the implementation of project initiatives, such as rain water harvesting, to support Livestock Development in Carriacou, expansion of the support provided to farmers to improve livestock infrastructure (housing facilities and pasture fencing), the development of feedlots and production units on government estates and the increase in sow herds by 125 breeding sows.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL A AGRICULTURE REVIEW EVIEW 09 | 23

Performance of the Fisheries Subsector

Performance of the Fisheries Subsector Figure 7: Fish Production in Quantity (lbs) 2003-2009 5,233,600 lbs 4,773,502 lbs 5,260,145 lbs 4,512,945 lbs 4,874,950 lbs 4,505,478 lbs

Millions Pounds (lbs)

6

5,613,833 lbs

5 4 3 2 1 0 2003

2004

2005

2006 Years

2007

2008

2009

Figure 8: Fish Export in Value 2003-2009 14 Millions EC Dollars

12

• Fish being caught on vessel at Grand Mal, St. George

T

he Fisheries Industry in Grenada is one the leading and high performance segments in the Agri-food sector. Over the years, the subsector has been growing unabatedly from year to year as evidenced by new entrant stakeholders investing in fishing boats and other businesses, gigantic investments in fishing complex infrastructure, increased production, export and foreign exchange generation etc. There are approximately 2800 fishermen in the subsector comprising of both full time and part timers, of which 80% may be considered small fishermen operating with small boats.

$11,718,835

10

$8,193,909

8

sources. As the custodian of the fisheries subsector, key components of the overall management strategy remain as conservation and management of endangered spices, infrastructural development, technical enhancement and unwavering support services to all stakeholders, to ensure the trickle down of economic and social benefits to all members of the fishing community and a substantive contribution to national development.

In 2009, and in succeeding years, CRFM, which is a regional CARICOM funded initiative, coordinated and made significant Strategic Focus progress in developing a regional mechaThere was a marginal decrease in fish pro- The Fisheries Division of the Ministry of nism for the management and development duction in 2009, 5,260,145 lbs, compared to Agriculture maintained a strategic focus on of regional fisheries. The three-phase projthat of 2008, 5,233,500 lbs, (See Figure 7). the sustainable management of marine re- ect included the formulation of a fisheries 24 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

$9,494,601 $9,414,413

$10,506,400 $10,587,147

6 4 2 0 2003

The value of fish exports in 2009 amounted to EC$10.5 million (See Figure 8). However, the subsector made a significant 2% contribution to National Gross Domestic Product, which can be largely attributed to fisheries products exported to the North American and EU markets (via Martinique). The volume of the agricultural exports commodity however, has declined in 2009 due to the economic recessionary conditions faced by importing countries and market competition which impacted on reduced prices for these export commodities.

$11,088,428

2004

2005

2006 Years

master plan for officials in the Caribbean, a diagnostic study on poverty in fisheries communities and an ACP project intended to strengthen the fisheries management in the Caribbean. In 2009, the field study for the Master Plan was concluded. The year 2009 also marked the ratification of the Project for Improving the Traditional Fishing Community Infrastructure at Gouyave between the Government of Grenada and the Government of Japan.

2007

2008

2009

Communication Network which extended coverage for marine communication ship to shore from 100 to 10 additional miles and the establishment of a repeater at Mt. St. Catherine were among the key interventions made to improve productivity in the subsector. These, in addition to other consequential factors such as access to credit for medium-sized fishermen resulted in the increase in fisheries production over previous years. The Management Plan for conservation of Marine Protected Areas was also approved in 2009.

Continued

vided exposure to, and engaged women in the processing of fish. A series of training workshops were held in Victoria, St. Patrick, Grenville and other parts of St. Andrew, Gouyave, St. John and St. David. This training should however, be complimented with further training in small business management, marketing and basic financial management. Training was also provided for fisher folk in the West Coast (Gouyave), in post harvesting technology, which was held in an effort to enhance the quality of fish for local consumption and export. However, much more training is needed in areas of post harvesting technology, strengthening of HACCP and quality assurance. Fish exporters have been vehemently requesting that a tactical approach to the training of fisher folk must be done with due cognizance of the impact on fish exports. On the other hand, it is recommended that fish exporters should return to the grading system for wholesale fish purchasing. Intense market competition amongst local fish exporters resulted in the deregulation of the grading system. Nonetheless, the issue of improved quality is critical, since increased production of high quality fish products would enhance the volumes of export and the consequential foreign exchange earnings possibility, higher levels of profitability for the exporters and reciprocally, increase fisher folks’ revenue.

Policy Directive

The Fisheries Division has been able to attend to key policy issues which include, the enhancement of coastal fisheries infrastructure; specifically a signed agreement for the establishment of a modernized fishing complex in Gouyave, St. John and commissioning the cold storage facility in Waltham, St. Mark. These also included, improved management and conservation of biodiversity as a means of sustaining economic and social benefits to the industry whilst conOperations tributing towards national development and Improved management of marine protect- In collaboration with the Agency for Rural also ensuring the safety of fisher folk at sea, ed areas, the enhancement of the Fisheries Transformation, the Fisheries Division pro- through the expansion of the ship to shore GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 25

Performance of the Fisheries Subsector Figure 9: Fisheries Subsector Performance Indicators Fisheries Subsector Contribution to GDP Contribution to Total National Export Earning Total Number of Fisher Folk Employment Generated (approximately) Value of Exported Fisheries Products

communication coverage for the local fishing fleet. 2% 13.3% 2800 3000 (direct & indirect) $EC10,506,300

Table 15: Fisheries Subsector SWOT Analysis Major Strengths

Major Weaknesses

• •

• • • •

• • • •

Highly productive subsector Serviced by experienced and competent Fisheries Officers Vested interest by all stakeholders in the subsector National fishing borders possess capacity for increased production in pelagic stock Supported by modern infrastructures Relatively good management systems for endangered species

•

• •

Major Opportunities • •

Limited storage capacity Inconsistency in quality Sudden up rise in Praedial Larceny Insufficient training in enhancing quality and implementing of Standards on Post Harvesting Techniques The current complement of staff is inadequate to meet the current demands of the subsector and to increase efficiency in services provided High prices adversely affect local demand for fish products Inadequate commitment on the part of all key stakeholders to maintain quality assurance for the export market on a consistent basis

Major Threats

Increasing access to external markets • for fish and fish products has provided a stable market for the industry • Access to new technologies through friendly countries • • • •

Continued

Escalating fuel prices and the impact on the fishing industry High completion and price wars on the international markets Non tariff barriers which impede exports International price fluctuations Limited international opportunities for specialized training Intrusion of foreign fishing vessels in targeting our pelagic fish stocks on a regular basis

26 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Policies to tackle the issue of illegal fishing activities are a pressing necessity to deal with this intolerable problem. Strengthening of the monitoring, control and surveillance programme to prevent, deter and eliminate foreign and local illegal fishing activities is imperative. The prevention of praedial larceny amongst the fishing fleet, especially theft of engines and boats, which allegedly emerged from illegal activities which have external and or regional connections, must also be addressed.

Performance of the

Forestry

Subsector

This Ministry of Agriculture must also seek to enhance market opportunities to increase demand for fresh as well as processed fish with due consideration to the precariousness of current export markets and as a means of improving national food security.

Projects for the Future In collaboration with the Ministry of National Security, the Ministry of Agriculture must seek to attain the necessary resources and action to address the problem of illegal fishing in Grenada’s waters. Intensive training would be needed in the future in order to increase the quota of high quality fish products. There must be commitment on the part of all key stakeholders to ensure and maintain quality assurance for the export market on a consistent basis. It is also essential that proper monitoring of fishing vessels continue in order to ensure that fishermen use the appropriate fishing gear, methods and practices when fishing. The fishing industry continues to exhibit enormous potential for increasing the livelihoods of all stakeholders involved in the sub sector and for generating much needed foreign exchange. The prospects for expanding the pelagic fisheries should also be pursued in order to generate increased economic benefits to the industry and the national economy on a whole.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL A AGRICULTURE REVIEW EVIEW 09 | 27

T

he sound management of forestry resources, protection and maintenance of biological diversity and ecosystems is now even more critical to Sustainable Agriculture Development. Forestry resources are vital due to their contribution to wildlife maintenance, climate control, protection and the efficient function of watersheds and catchment areas, pollution abatement and, to a lesser extent in Grenada, the economic impact from timber production. The protection of mangroves and swamp areas also has implications in preserving the livelihoods of fisher folk. Over the years, Grenada’s Forestry Subsector has been instrumental in many aspects of national food security. Besides the subsector’s integral role of providing water for the production of agricultural activities such as water generated for irrigation and livestock production, the forest as a habitat for wildlife, has also provided rural committee members with basic protein needs. As a sustainable strategy, moratoriums are enforced whenever there are any threats of depletion in stocks. The Forest also provides lumber for the construction of farming infrastructure such as fence posts and is also important in the reduction of incidence of pests in agricultural crops. In addition, the forest is important also in reducing wind velocity which obviously minimizes potential damage to crops and consequently increases pollination and fruit set of agricultural crops. The Forestry Subsector in Grenada has also contributed to achieving of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as it relates to gender equality and empowerment of women. The Forestry Division has recruited women in almost equal proportion to men, who have been given the same levels of wages, responsibilities and opportunities as men.

Strategic Focus

• Grand Etang Forest

28 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

The Ministry of Agriculture’s Forestry Division continues to propel the Forestry Subsector in achieving sustainable forestry management and development. The under-

Performance of the Forestry Subsector lying goal of the Forestry Division for the Subsector is to sustainably manage (directly and indirectly) Grenada’s forest resources and cultural landmarks in order to optimize their contribution to environmentally sound social and economic development. In 2009, this goal has been supported by the participation of, and partnership with, regional and international conservation organizations, communities and individuals. For the period under review, the Division collaborated with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), OECS Protected Areas and Associated Livelihood (OPAAL) and the GEF/ World Bank initiative. The Division also represented Grenada’s forestry initiatives locally, regionally and internationally, thereby contributing to Grenada honouring its commitments under United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD). The Division was strategically focused on facilitating linkages and partnerships to surmount the existing challenges, responding to the needs of its stakeholders, leading the conceptualization of forest and cultural landmark related legislation and regulations and ensuring the enforcement thereof. The Division was also involved in informing and educating the public on forest and landmark issues and monitoring and evaluating the use of forest resources.

Operations In addition to the basic operational functions of the Division; which entail upland watershed management, trees establishment and management, the maintenance and management of forest recreation, heritage sites and wildlife protection and conservation, the Division had numerous institutional achievements in the year 2009. Under the TNC’s Initiative the Forestry Division facilitated and participated in the development of the first draft of a Management Plan for the Perseverance Dove Sanctuary and Protected Areas. A benefit of the GEF/World Bank Initia-

Continued

Figure 10: Forestry Trees Production 2003-2009 16

15,000

14 Number Produced

Performance of the Forestry Subsector

12 10 8

10,000 8,000

7,000 5,000

6 4

5,000 3,000

2 0 2003

2004

2005

2006 Years

2007

2008

2009

tive was the Development of a Management Plan for the proposed Levera National Parks in Levera, St. Patrick. As was mandated by the Plan, a consultant was hired to conduct the relevant assessment for the consideration of erecting a Board Walk at the Levera Pond.

Subsector in 2009 were the reforestation of 16 acres of forest area which was an 80% increase over 2008. Research activities on amphibians and reptiles which was done in consultation with the St. George’s University, clearing of 1.5 miles of boundary line, the establishment and maintenance of 2 miles nature trails and the protection of 7 The Development of a System Plan for forestry reserves in addition Mt. St. CatheProtected Areas both marine and terrestrial rine which is yet to be declared as an official was another notable achievement. This was reserve (See Table 16). done under the auspices of the OPAAL project. A System Plan is extremely instru- The Subsector has also had an increase in mental to the system of work surrounding forest seedling production of 15,000 plants the Conventional Biological Biodiversity that is, a 50% increase compared to the pre(CDB) where a pledge was made to protect vious year (See Figure 10). 25% of terrestrial and 25% of marine areas. The System Plan therefore aids in meeting The Forestry Division also provided stakethese targets. The OPAAL project also hired holders in the sector with numerous technia Coordinator to implement the Livelihood cal support systems. Support was provided component of the project. The Forestry specifically to farmers, schools, saw-millers, Division crafted preliminary livelihood op- community groups, NGO’s and Governportunities for stakeholders in surrounding mental Institutions. communities specifically the Grand Etang and Annandale communities. Demonstra- Policy Directive tion training in tour guiding, small business management, numeracy and literacy were Several policy areas were addressed in the among those opportunities outlined to ben- year 2009 by the mandated authority. Acefit the community members. A review of tivities involved the management of Forthe Forestry Division’s ten year Strategic estry Reserves and Protected Areas, public awareness, development and maintenance Plan was also conducted in 2009. of linkages with stakeholders among many Other accomplishments of the Forestry other support activities, such as appraisal of GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 29

Performance of the Forestry Subsector Figure 11: Forest Subsector Performance Indicators Acres of Forestry Areas Reserves Population of Wild Life Water Availability

4,566.4 acres (not inclusive of Mt. St. Catherine ) N/A 95% of Grenada’s water comes from upland watersheds 72 Watersheds

Table 16: Forestry Subsector SWOT Analysis Major Strengths

Major Weaknesses

•

•

• • •

Competent senior officers in the Forestry Division High level of interest in Forestry Policy An organized structure of the forestry related implementation agency Sound legislative structure

• • • • •

Major Opportunities • • • •

Inexperienced junior staff at the Forestry Division Insufficient human resource capacity Inadequate and obsolete computer equipment and other equipment at the Forestry Division Limited capital and budgetary support from the government Lack of intensive drive and funding for reforestation initiatives Absence of succession training and planning for the Forestry Division

Major Threats

Capacity Development from interna- • tional and external donors Increased relationship with regional • and international Conservational Organizations Donor funding for Forestry Programmes and increased government funding Research and Development

Pest and diseases such as chyridiomycosis (amphibious fungus) Natural disasters (especially hurricanes, forest fires and drought)

30 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Continued

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA’s) for the public and private sector. However, some additional policies are needed to deal with issues which would direct that forest improvement become a priority in the development agenda and as a result should be given more capital support geared towards this cause. A policy to support the Forestry Division’s autonomy to carry out decisive action in the hiring of daily paid staff may be considered an imperative. Occasional replacement of daily paid staff takes unduly long periods under the current recruitment process. This results in an underachievement of field activities.

Performance of the

Cocoa

Subsector

Projects for the Future The Forestry Subsector continues to make significant progress, notwithstanding the destruction it experienced in 2004 and 2005 by Hurricanes Ivan and Emily respectively. The attainment of future successes would require concerted efforts by the Government of Grenada to ensure increased reforestation activities. The establishment of a nursery and extra projects to manage and protect watershed areas is also critical. Projects that promote the efficient and sustainable management of forestry resources would also be useful, especially those which have a livelihood component. The sustainable management of wood and other forest products, which satisfy the local saw-mill, furniture, construction and craft industries, must also be managed in a sustainable manner.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 31

• Purchase of Cocoa Bean at the Carlton Station, St. Andrew

initialize the process of establishing cocoa processing capacity in other to aggressively engage into valued adding opportunities.

Whilst there were no special project interventions by the allied and donor organizations in the year under review, the subsector was instrumental in ensuring sustainable livelihoods in rural communities, thereby significantly contributing to the Millennium Development Goals. Cocoa production, as is the case with other traditional commodities, is primarily concentrated in the rural areas where much of the poverty in Grenada is found. The improving performance of the subsector can be translated into an increasing contribution to food security and The growing confidence in the subsector increased economic activities. was demonstrated by an increase in the number of cocoa farmers from 2500 in Operations 2008 to 3000 in 2009. Through conscientious strategic planning, In spite of the unprecedented successes sound marketing and pricing strategies and highlighted above, the malaise of some management, on the part of the Grenada farmers, and by extension the subsector, Cocoa Association, in addition to a prowas due to an extensive drought period ductive partnership with the Ministry of throughout the rainy season, which nega- Agriculture and generally harmonized eftively impacted production. forts by all stakeholders including farmers, the Cocoa subsector was able to succeed in Nonetheless, the Subsector has been able to its annual target production of two-thirds maintain and adequately supply its exports of pre-Ivan levels, which fluctuated between markets regionally, in the United States, 1.5 to 1.8 million pounds per annum. The Switzerland and Belgium. 2009 production levels represented significant strides in this subsector’s rehabilitation Strategic Focus process. However, the major achievements of the subsector can be summed up as, Grenada Cocoa Association, the statutory increased cocoa production and a marked body with responsibility for the cocoa inenhancement of farmers’ confidence in the dustry, continues to position the subsector industry. Increased production resulted in to ensure long term and increased comsales in excess of $4 million in cocoa beans mercial viability of the industry. The Asto buyers in Europe and the United States sociation is ever mindful of its primary (See Figure 13). stakeholders, cocoa farmers, and attempts to maximize their benefits. The impetus of the Cocoa subsector in 2009 can be accredited to two major projects The immediate goals of the Association for which were implemented during that year. the year 2009 were to re-establish producThese were: the Ministry of Agriculture’s tion to at least 2/3 of pre-Ivan levels, to Farm Labour Support Programme and the compensate farmers at a break-even farmInputs Programme which was reinstated by gate price, to increase the motivation of the Grenada Cocoa Association. cocoa farmers in an effort to increase production, to streamline the operations of the Association to improve efficiency and to

32 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Both programmes were implemented in tandem to achieve the foreseeable goal of increasing production. The Farm Labour Support Programme was instrumental in clearing and re-cultivating devastated and abandoned cocoa fields which were returned to full production. Under this programme 440 acres of cocoa lands were cleared at a cost of EC$400,000. These programmes were directly responsible for the 30% increase in production that the Subsector experienced in the year under review. The Cocoa Association and the Ministry of Agriculture also provided support services to cocoa farmers in the area of farm management and development through various interventions, specifically, one to one visits and consultations, group meetings, farm demonstrations and also the use of the media for knowledge impartation.

Continued

Figure 12: Cocoa Production Quantity in Pounds 2003-2009 Quantity in Hundred Thousands (lbs)

T

he Cocoa Subsector has demonstrated utmost resilience since the passage of Hurricanes Ivan and Emily in 2004 and 2005 respectively, compared to all other traditional export commodities subsectors. Despite the decline in cocoa production since 2004, the subsector has seen incremental increases not only in production but the number of farmers returning to the industry. In 2009, there has been a remarkably high production performance in the Cocoa Subsector. Production levels increased to 1.1 million pounds, a 30% increase compared to 2008’s production level and 11 times that of 2005 (See Figure 12).

Performance of the Cocoa Subsector 20

1,829,987

15 10

1,507,375

783,989 1,016,185

5

169,724 111,859

0 2003

2004

484,531 2005

2006 Years

2007

2008

2009

Figure 13: Cocoa Export in EC Dollar Value 6

$5,504,532

Notwithstanding the major success in the 5 subsector, there are presiding marketing is$3,697,703 sues which must be addressed, for example, 4 the need to differentiate the cocoa product 3 $4,000,000 that is currently traded. The GCA has been $3,933,682 trading one standard product which does 2 not always suit the taste of all chocolate $748,180 $2,346,770 manufacturers. The possibility of increas1 ing the variety of product through experi$197,408 0 menting with the fermentation process may 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 enable the GCA to supply a more varied Years clientele. There is therefore an urgent need for research and development in the production process. Market penetration for processed cocoa would also be another area for redress once the Agro-Processing of Table 17: Cocoa Propagation Programme 2005-2009 cocoa begins. Millions EC Dollars

Performance of the Cocoa Subsector

Policy Directive The lead policies which supported the direction of the Cocoa Subsector in 2009 included the transfer of cocoa propagation from the Grenada Cocoa Association to the Ministry of Agriculture. They also included the amalgamation of the extension service of the Grenada Cocoa Association and the Ministry of Agriculture in efforts to increase the efficiency of support services provided. The re-establishment of the Inputs Supply

Years No. of Cocoa Plantlets Propagated

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

360

6,575

13,280

14,000

45,950

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 33

Performance of the Cocoa Subsector

Continued

Programme by the GCA and the establish- Figure 14: Cocoa Subsector Performance Indicators ment of credit facilities to provide working capital to cocoa farmers were also necessary Cocoa Subsector Contribution to Agricultural 20% policy actions. GDP 6.5% of total export earnings In the upcoming year, policies must be Value of Exported Cocoa Primary Products No. of Cocoa Farmers 6500 approx. made to address the use of cocoa lands by 3000 housing development. Clear direction on the treatment of abandoned lands that were once designated for agriculture or cocoa production must be legislated and decisive Table 18: Cocoa Subsector SWOT Analysis action to advance the merger of the GCA and GCNA operations which would avoid Major Strengths Major Weaknesses duplication of marketing and operational • Excellent product • Fluctuating prices for primary prodefforts in the traditional crop subsectors. • Strong institution capacity uct • Product is well known on the market • Very low yields per acre Projects for the Future for its high flavoured cocoa product • Insufficient production levels The main goal of the GCA and the Minis- • Very experienced professionals and • Long distances from export markets try of Agriculture in the upcoming year is ‘knowhow’ in the Association • Limited number of producers/farmto increase production so as to surpass that ers of pre-Ivan period. This is critical especial• Low level of Research and Developly since the Association is moving towards ment exporting processed and value added prod• Lack of Product Differentiation ucts, in addition to the existing products • Encroachment of housing developthat are traded. The immediate target for ment on cocoa lands & subdivision of 2010 must be to increase production by 1/3 large fields of the current production that is, 366,666 • Abandonment of large cocoa fields lbs. Strategic interventions, such as projects • Outdated governance structure geared towards bringing abandoned lands and cocoa fields back into production and Major Threats credit facilities, are therefore critical to re- Major Opportunities alizing this target. Nonetheless, an increase • Increased awareness of health ben- • Natural disasters in production levels to 2/3 of production efits of cocoa/chocolate • Technical production standards implelevels pre-Ivan can be considered a signifi- • Increase in the number of industries mented by buyers can present barriers cant success. using fine cocoa to trade • Problems in major cocoa producing • Market competition Other critical projects which would enhance countries such as the Ivory Coast the viability of the subsector and improve the • Less competition as fewer countries capacity of the Association, are investments are producing fine flavoured cocoa specifically geared towards building capacity • Potential to trade value added prodin chocolate making. Other critical areas to be ucts addressed are marketing and marketing intelligence, which are critical for a profitable and sustainable improved performance.

34 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Performance of the

Nutmeg Subsector

GRENADA’S ANNUAL A AGRICULTURE REVIEW EVIEW 09 | 35

Performance of the Nutmeg Subsector

Performance of the Nutmeg Subsector Strategic Focus

G

renada has been the second largest nutmeg producing country for many years. Revitalization efforts in the sector, following the passage of hurricanes Ivan and Emily, have the country well positioned to maintain its preeminence in nutmeg production. The high quality primary nutmeg product has been on great demand worldwide for its unique flavouring attributes.

mitage, St. Patrick. Despite these challenges, in 2009, nutmeg growers were able to produce and deliver in excess of 1.5 million pounds of green nutmegs (compared to 1.1 million in 2008), 284 pounds of dried nutmeg and 1,424 pounds of shelled grinders. Additionally, over 30, 648 pounds of grade one mace was delivered to the Association for resale, together with, 13,099 grade two mace and 15,246 grade three mace. Nutmeg exports decreased to 662,405 pounds compared to 707, 029 pounds in 2008, however, the export value increased from $6.5 million in 2008 to $6.9 million in 2009, the evidence of higher prices for Grenada’s nutmegs (See Figure 15).

The subsector is faced with yet another crippling challenge. Some re- Similarly, mace increased in quantity from 17,760 pounds in 2008 to 42, maining fields especially in the northern areas such as the Deadly Valley 523 pounds in 2009, and increased in value from $0.36 million in 2008 at Belmonte Estate and Mt. Pleasant, St. Patrick have been attacked by to $0.376 million in 2009 (See Figure 16). the nutmeg wilt disease which has been destroying productive trees. Other pockets of affected areas are in Mt. Agnes, St. David and Her-

The MOA’s Farm Labour Support Programme also contributed to increased production. The Ministry’s intervention resulted in the GCNA’s major achievement for the year 2009 of approximately 21.5 acres

36 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

5,208,924

Quantity (lbs)

5

4,169,382 4,232,615

4 3 2

1,474,571

1,792,010

1

707,029

662,405

2008

2009

0 2003

2004

2005

2006 Years

2007

Figure 16: Mace Export in Quantity 2003-2009 500

470,907 391,815

400 300

192,079

200 100

24,081

28,780

36,506

2007

2008

65,760

0 2003

2004

2005

2006 Years

2009

Figure 17: Nutmeg Export in Value 2003-2009

Operations The Ministry of Agriculture supported the overarching revitalization strategies of the GCNA through the provision of 8,316 high quality nutmeg plantlets of which 90% were female (most productive) plants at a highly subsidized price of EC$0.50 per plant (See Figure 18).

The importance of this subsector cannot be understated. For decades the subsector has been the breadbasket of so many rural people and more so, a high contributor to the export sector and foreign exchange collection. Unfortunately, revitalization of the sector is sluggish, a consequence of the lengthy gestation period for nutmegs.

6

45 40 Millions EC Dollars

• Nutmeg Harvesting at Belmont Estate, St. Patrick

The Association collaborated intimately with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Pest Management Unit to actively liaise with farmers and to treat nutmeg with infected fields. Commencing in 2007, the ITC, FAO, UNCTADT and other international donors provided some technical support for the development of a Nutmeg Strategy for Grenada, in order to assist with the revitalization of the subsector, using the value chain approach. The nutmeg industry still provides a source of income for over 2,541 nutmeg farmers, a significant number of farm labourers, and is a direct source of labour for 150 staff members distributed throughout the eight (8) operating nutmeg stations.

Figure 15: Nutmeg Export in Quantity 2003-2009

Quantity in Thousand (lbs)

According to the Nutmeg Industry Act, the Grenada Cooperative Nutmeg Association (GCNA) has been constituted and established to promote the interests of the nutmeg industry and in particular, to market nutmegs and to regulate and control the export of this major spice product. The GCNA worked relentlessly to implement strategies that would foster increased production of nutmegs and maximize the benefits for farmers despite the residing limitations in the subsector. Unrelenting efforts were exerted to combat challenges presented, such as the nutmeg wilt infestation (root rot of nutmegs trees) and the existence of inoperable or abandoned nutmeg fields.

Continued

$39,543,742

35

$31,564,730

30

$26,139,252

25 20 15

$8,645,803 $9,825,667

10

$6,528,414 $7,750,424

5 0

2003

2004

2005 2006 Years

2007

2008

2009

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 37

Performance of the Nutmeg Subsector Table 19: Propagation of Nutmeg Planting Materials 2005-2009 Years No. of Nutmeg Plantlets Propagated

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

900

1,911

-

297

8,316

Figure 18: Nutmeg Subsector Performance Indicators Nutmeg Subsector Contribution to Agriculture GDP(6.62%) Contribution to Total Export Earnings Value of Exported Nutmeg Primary Products Contribution to National Employment

30% 9% EC$6,342,874 4601 approximately (Direct & Indirect)

Continued

of nutmeg fields being cleared. Some of the fields cleared were abandoned and others were the plots of existing farmers needing assistance since the aftermath of the two hurricanes. Other achievements of the GCNA in 2009 were the entrance of a few new farmers establishing nutmeg fields and the opening and operation of two of the GCNA’s capital investments; the GCNA’s Commercial Complex in Lagoon Road, St. George’s and the Grenville Branch, in St. Andrew; the Jubilee Street Building. The Commercial Complex in St. George’s currently occupies 15 tenants whilst there is one tenant at the St. Andrew branch.

Performance of the Nutmeg Subsector Major Strengths

Major Weaknesses

•

•

• • • • •

Policies are also needed to address value addition for nutmegs in order to attract premium prices and also the curbing of praedial larceny for the subsector. The nutmeg wilt has the potential to adversely impact the industry even at this stage, as it struggles to increase production. A technical committee must be commissioned to conduct an impact assessment and also to implement a means of mitigating the apparent risk at hand.

• • • • • •

Policy Directive The impetus of the policy in 2009 for the nutmeg industry evolved around increased production and rehabilitation of the nutmeg sub sector. The focus included strategies for propagation, land clearing and harvesting and re-commissioning of abandoned fields. Intensified focus must be given to the latter two strategies in the upcoming year.

Projects for the Future

Table 20: Nutmeg Subsector SWOT Analysis

High interest traditional export crop in Grenada High quality primary product Dedicated institutional organisation in the interest of the sub sector Production arrangements facilitate high traceability Provides an international brand and image for Grenada High international demand for Grenada’s nutmeg products

• • •

Inadequate management structures limited business skills at top level of the Association Limited infrastructure for value addition Poor working relationship between staff and leaders of the Association Obsolete ordinance for the sub sector – inadequate allowance for innovation Existence of abandoned and inaccessible fields Poor harvesting technologies Pervasive incidence of Nutmeg Wilt Disease Limited Research & Development Lack of Human Resource Capacity to operate existing laboratory Low prices due to lack of market intelligence

Major Opportunities

Major Threats

•

•

• • • • • •

High international and regional demand for Grenada’s nutmegs Lucrative external and internal markets for value added products Easier access to external markets Increase foreign exchange Prospect of expanding entering more food industries Increase production of low aflatoxin for international export Agro-Processing to extract essential oils such as oleoresin which has high external demand

Continued

• • • •

Market competition from substitute products produced by Eastern Countries Reducing production which can result in the loss of market share Pest and diseases especially nutmeg wilt Natural disasters Technical production standards implemented by buyers can present barriers to trade

Modernization and restructuring of the Nutmeg Association to operate as a profit making organization is essential. The evolution of the Association would allow it to address many of its weaknesses and strategies based on its strengths and opportunities to ensure increased production, exports and inevitably foreign exchange and profit. Nutmeg growers advocate for increased prices especially with the high cost and labour intensive harvesting methods. Nutmeg farmers have also alluded to much loss due to praedial larceny, unproductive farm workers and loss of productive trees due to the nutmeg wilt. The issue of labour has resulted in the indiscriminate use of chemicals to destroy weeds. Farmers were paid EC$2 per pound of dry and green nutmegs in 2009. A one acre field of nutmegs (30 to 50 trees), yields approximately 100 pounds of nutmegs per tree per annum. The cost of land clearing per day is EC$35 (6 land clearing days per acre). Consideration must also be given to the cost of inputs for the fields. Altogether, these production costs do not make the sector a lucrative one for the farmers. Increase in profitability of the GCNA and increased prices for the farmers are essential for the sustainability and the attractiveness of the sector for young aspiring nutmeg farmers. Further investigation must therefore be given to the cost of production during the process of price mark ups. However, the long term profitability and sustainability of the nutmeg subsector resides in the evolution of the GCNA into a profit making organization.

• A nutmeg tree

38 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 39

Performance of the Spice Subsector

Spice

Subsector

G

renada is world renowned for its Table 21: Quantities of Spice Production in Pounds at Minor Spice Cooperative from array of spices. However, Hur- 2003-2009 ricanes Ivan and Emily decimated the spice subsector. Unfortunately, because Spice Plants 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 there was not a sturdy culture of propagat- Black Pepper 60 15 132 ing and planting spices in previous years, Cinnamon 25 230 120 162 565 many of the minor spices have been taking 3 17 238 995 a longer revitalization process (See Table Clove 21). Pimento 160 Sapote 25 The escalating demand for Grenada’s spices 8 persists especially for food processors, be- Tonkabean cause of the unique flavors these spices add to exotic recipes all over the world. The price of spices has risen drastically due to scarcity, especially the prices of cloves (Syzgium aromaticum) and cinnamon (Cinnamomun verum). Prior to Hurricanes Ivan and Emily cloves were sold for EC$10 per pound, in 2009 they were sold for EC$25 per pound. Similarly, the price of unprocessed cinnamon moved from EC$3 preHurricane Ivan, EC$5 in 2008 and later escalated to EC$6, EC$8 & EC$10 in 2009. The monopoly with respect to the market prices of locally produced spices has been controlled by few spice producers with storage capacity. Local agro-processors have also been complaining of the high price and scarcity. The Minor Spices Cooperative Marketing Society, the farmers’ organization with responsibility for spices, processed 3100 pounds of spices in 2009, that is 10lbs less than that processed in 2008. One hundred percent of this figure was exported to markets in Barbados andother countries in the region. (See Table 22 & Figure 19). However, due to scarcity and high market prices the Cooperative lost one of its customers and was unable to engage prospective ones.

Table 22: Quantities of Individual Spices Exported from 2003-2009 Spice Plants Cinnamon Back Cinnamon Ground Clove Ground Clove Whole Nutmeg Ground Nutmeg Whole Turmeric Total in Pounds (lbs)

2003 1530 4030

2004 1500 3027

2005 0 0

2006 0 1463

2007 0 2000

2008 20 3090

2009 25 3100

0 70 0 0 0

22 105 2 4 3

0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0

0 50 0 0 0

0 50 0 140 0

0 0 0 0 0

5630

4663

0

1463

2050

3300

3125

Figure 19: Spice Exported in 2003-2009 6 Quantity in Thousand (lbs)

Performance of the

5,630 4,663

5 4

3,300

3,125

2008

2009

3 2,050

2

1,463

1 0 2003

40 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL A AGRICULTURE REVIEW EVIEW 09

2004

2005

2006 Years

2007

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 41

Performance of the Spice Subsector

Continued

• Spice Packaging at Arawak Islands Ltd., Frequente Industrial Park, St. George

Strategic Focus The Minor Spices Cooperative Marketing Society, the authorized body for trading spices in external markets, has been lobbying and conferring for resuscitation of the spice sector. The Cooperative seeks to restore the livelihoods and provide another source of income for rural farmers which it represents. It also wishes to ensure that Grenada retains its eminence as ‘the Spice Isle of the Caribbean’. In 2009 the Cooperative continued its programme to showcase herbs and economic spices as an Agro/Eco-Tourism product at the Laura Spice and Herb Garden. This project which entertained thousands of cruise and stay-over visitors in the 2009, received assistance under the UNDP-UNTFHS Restoration of Livelihoods - FAO Sustainable Livelihoods Project, with the Agency for the Rural Transformation as the implementing agency. The project facilitated the development of a plant propagation nursery, which is currently incomplete. This project was also executed in collaboration with the Propagation Coordinator at the

Ministry of Agriculture who has been providing training to ensure sustainability. The project also assisted in infrastructural development in an effort to enhance the tourism product at the Herb and Spice Garden. In particular, it contributed to trail development and establishment of a Gazebo and Ramp. A significant sum of EC$125,640 was expended on the Laura Herb and Spice Garden.

Operations The Ministry of Agriculture made a concerted effort to rehabilitate the Spice Subsector. The Minor Spices Cooperative Marketing Society outlined a five year plan which was also integrated into the Ministry of Agriculture’s Propagation Programme Plan. The Minor Spices Cooperative anticipates the establishment of 27,000 spice plants over the next five years, starting from the year 2010. Each year 5500 spice plants should be restored; 3000 cinnamon plants (9 acres), 1000 pimento and 1500 cloves. The year 2009 marked the general consensus between the Cooperative and the Ministry of Agriculture on the Plan for revitalization of

42 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

the Spice Subsector and initial propagation activities for spice plants. Other achievements for the Spice subsector take into account the project activities under the Sustainable Livelihood Projects. This also included training of young propagators of spices, which was undertaken in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture. In order to ensure sustainability of spice propagation, the project in collaboration with the Ministry have begun the process of establishing a nursery at the Laura Herb and Spice Garden and the installation of a irrigation system at the Spice Garden which is fed by rainwater harvesting via an underground pump.

Policy Address It is essential for the Ministry of Agriculture to provide unremitting extension services to the Minor Spice Cooperative and major spice farmers, who are relied upon to sustain the spice subsector. Another problem that requires a policy solution or regulation enforcement, is the trading of spices. The Cooperative is by law the authorized

Performance of the Spice Subsector

Continued

body for the external trade of minor spices. Figure 20: Spice Subsector Performance Indicators However, the Cooperative has been faced with tremendous competition from other Spice Subsector Contribution to GDP Not Available traders, notably the Traffickers. Traffickers Value of Exported Spice Products EC$52,700 have been harvesting spices in the fields of Contribution to National Image Extremely High land owners at higher prices than that which the Cooperative would be able to pay. As a result, the Cooperative has been able to salvage only small quantities of the already Table 23: Spice Subsector SWOT Analysis scare resource. This situation has significantly reduced its ability to supply processed Major Strengths Major Weaknesses spice products to its existing consumers. • Wide variety of Spice that can be • Minor Spices Cooperative has limited grown in Grenada access to capital and other resources Another issue is the high cost of unproto directly assist farmers which would cessed nutmegs paid to the Grenada Co- • Highly skilled and knowledgeable technicians in minor spices facilitate revitalizing of the subsector operative Nutmeg Association. The Minor Spice Cooperative purchases nutmegs at • Spices are demanded locally flavoring • Limited processing capacity at the Miseveral local recipes and agro-pronor Spices Cooperative. Obsolete and the exorbitant cost of EC$7/lb. This highly cessed foods inadequate equipment priced raw material, when processed and packaged, inflates the cost of the finished • Minor Spices Cooperative possesses • Lack of collaboration between Minor committed and highly motivated staff Spices and GCNA in purchasing of product. The Minor Spice Cooperative beto drive the subsector raw materials for processing lieves it warrants some sort of concession• Spices Subsector provides an interna- • Limited training opportunities for ary pricing treatment from GCNA. tional brand and Image for Grenada farmers and other stakeholders in the spice subsector Projects for the Future • Few Spice suppliers with monopolisA holistic policy framework for the spice tic pricing power on the local spice subsector would complement the recent market initiatives and significantly impact the • No policy framework geared towards spice subsector. There must be concenthe development of the Spice subsectrated efforts to increase production of tor in Grenada spices. Research and Development would • Low enthusiasm of farmers to estabalso contribute to favourable positioning lish minor spice gardens of the subsector since the taste of spices • Limited technical advice to spice farmis already renowned and desired. Further ers from the Ministry of Agriculture’s research and development would increase Extension Services prospective trade to premium priced markets. Harvesting Technologies is another Major Threats area that should be attended to in order to Major Opportunities improve the quality of spice products. The • High International and Regional de- • Loss of Spice Markets (Cinnamon) to spice subsector is a very viable industry that mand for Grenada’s Spices other regional and Eastern Countries should receive tremendous focus. • Access to external markets has in- • Import of Spice products from Eastcreased ern Countries via Trinidad • Easier access to external markets • Natural Disasters • Increase foreign exchange • Prospect of expanding the Agro-Eco Tourism Product.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 43

NGOs Contribution to Agriculture Development in 2009 Name of NGO Focus Group Name of Project/Programme Agency for Rural Transformation Vulnerable communities and livelihoods, also UNDP-UNTFHS Restoration of Livelihoods: Ltd. (ART) persons in agriculture, Agro-Processing and FAO Sustainable Livelihoods Project forest based-enterprises.

Agriculture Subsector in which Intervention was Made Livestock, Propagation, Vegetation, Farmers

• • • • • •

Agency for Rural Transformation Young entrepreneurs in rural communities Ltd. (ART)

OAS National Export Competency Development Project

Fisheries and Agro-Processing

• • •

Agency for Rural Transformation National Ltd. (ART)

GRENCODA

World Food Day Exhibition 2009- Smoked Fish and Culinary Display

Vulnerable farmers from poor residential area, United Nations Trust Fund on Human Seespecially women curity (UNTFHS) Restoration of Livelihood: Funded by FAO

• • •

Introduced local public to smoked fish and its products. To showcase skills of persons trained. To generate interest and demand for smoked fish.

- Land Preparation - Training (Nursery Management, Marketing & Livestock)

•

Approximately 104 acres of farmers land cleared (approximately 1 acre per farm) 104 persons were direct beneficiaries who benefited from the land clearing programme. Short term employment provided for 113 persons 80 males and 33 females. Ensuring that women get more involved in the Agricultural Sector and they benefited from the programme. 74 hrs ploughing done for 45 farmers. Promotion of farmers products, including sales & income generation, over 5 years in Chambord. 35 farmers Over 40 agricultural items

•

• • • • • - FAO/UNDP. To improve livelihood of GRENROP members. - To improve quality and standards of AgroProcessing products and to come up with new products.

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49 person’s acquired new skills in fish processing and food preparation. Policy makers were sensitized to the potential for smoked fish. Participants included 10 males, 39 females totaling 49 persons.

Agro-Processing

•

Grenada Network of Rural Women Only Women. Producers (GRENROP) NB: Recently some men have asked to join.

Impact Assessment (Social/Economic Indicators) Land clearing and distributed inputs benefited 35 farmers 117 persons were direct beneficiaries and household members who benefited from the land clearing programme. There was short term employment provided for 36 persons. 23 males, 13 females. Upgrade and enhancement of herb garden and trail of the Minor Spices Marketing Co-operative. (Wheel chair accessible) Small nursery in which to propagate spice plants. Training was held on spice production.

- Agro-Processing (mainly) - Farming - Inputs - Training (Improve cocoa balls and new flavors of herbal cocoa) - New Punch - Nutmeg Cheese - Five Types of Local Wine - Seasoned Pepper Sauce - Quality Control - HACCP Improved - Capacity Building - Business Technologies

• • • •

More persons were able to improve their livelihood with farm - families. Better products on the market. More exposure of group and its products. New products.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 45

Support Received from Collaborating Institutions and/ or Donors

Support Received from Collaborating Institutions and/ or Donors Continued

• Cocoa Harvesting at Belmont Estate, St. Patrick

T

he agricultural sector in Grenada • SFA 2006 Programme - Under that programme (EU funding), the FAO benefits significantly from technihas provided support in the implemencal and financial assistance provided tation of four projects namely: by collaborating institutions and the donor community. In 2009, the Ministry of Ag1. The Strengthening of information riculture and the agri-food sector received systems in the Ministry of Agrisubstantial assistance from a number of culture - The aim of this project these institutions and friendly countries. is to improve data collection in order to generate statistical inforThe Food and Agriculture mation that is reliable, in order to Organization (FAO) assist important stakeholders to make informed decisions. Part of The FAO has distinguished itself over the this project also involved training years as one of the most important collaboof extension agents and other ofrating institutions to the agri-food sector ficers of the Ministry of Agriculin Grenada as far as the level of support, ture. both from a technical and a financial stand point. During the year under review, the FAO provided assistance in a number of areas both directly to the Ministry of Agriculture and to the agri-food sector in general. The following highlights some of the specific areas in which assistance was provided by the FAO:

2.

Marketing and Promotion of locally grown and processed products - The objective of this projective is to enhance the marketing and promotion of locally grown and processed products, thus ensuring that the population consumes foods which are healthy,

46 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

safe and which will enable consumers to live healthy and very productive lives. The project also seeks to boost local production capacity by enhanced consumption of local foods. In 2009, support has been provided to entities such as the Marketing and Importing Board in hosting the first mango festival on the island, which was a resounding success. 3.

.

Livelihood Development Via Agro processing - This project seeks to develop the agro processing sub sector on the island. In 2009, support has been provided to over 200 small agro processors on the island in a number of areas including Good Manufacturing Practices, HACCP standards, support provided for the development of Agro-Processing clusters etc

4.

•

•

The Production of an Agricultural Review - The review is intended to be a document which will highlight an overview of the performance • of the agri -food sector during a given year. It is envisaged that policy makers, researchers, students, farmers, potential investors, the donor community etc. will benefit tremendously from the review.

Support to the Ministry of Agriculture in developing a comprehensive Food Security Plan for Grenada - In 2009 the • FAO was requested to assist in developing a comprehensive Food Security Plan for Grenada and the institution responded in the affirmative. Food security is a high priority for the Ministry of Agriculture. Support for the development of Tele- • food Project - The FAO has agreed to finance a number of Telefood projects in 2009 which will benefit a number of cluster groups on the island both

in food crops production and in agro processing. Technical Support in the development of Land bank project - In 2009, the FAO gave its commitment to the Ministry of Agriculture in providing technical support in developing a Land Bank project. A stakeholders’ meeting was held during that year involving a wide cross section of persons who provided vital inputs that have been taken on board to develop the project. In 2009 the FAO provided support to the livelihoods restoration project where a number of NGO’s on the island have been involved in working with rural communities that were affected by the passage of Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Provision of assistance to the Food Security Programme where significant inputs were provided to over 2000 vulnerable households and resource poor farmers on the island.

The European Union The support provided by the European Union over the years has been admirable and has impacted the agri-food sector in a significant way. In 2009, there was a continuation of many of the EU financed projects which started during the previous year, such as the SFA 2006 livelihood development via Agro-Processing and the SFA 99 Supplementary Irrigation Project. The EU financed Boulogne Farm Road and the SFA 99 Supplementary Irrigation Project were officially launched during the year under review in a highly impressive and well attended ceremony in Boulogne, St. Andrew During the year under review, three components of the EU funded SFA 2006 programme were initiated: the Production of the Annual Agriculture Review, the Marketing and Promotion of locally grown and processed produce and the Strengthening of Information Systems in the Ministry of Agriculture.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 47

Support Received from Collaborating Institutions and/ or Donors Continued

2009 also saw the Ministry of Agriculture, the European Union Fund (EDF) Support Services Office, and the EU Delegation in Barbados worked assiduously to complete all the necessary paperwork for the implementation of the Spice Research Project, which was approved during the previous year. The project was expected to be initiated during the following year, 2010. All the funding for that project is provided by the European Union. The project is expected to make an enormous impact on the Spice sub sector in Grenada. There is no doubting that the EU is a very reliable supporter and collaborator of the Ministry of Agriculture and its support over the years has contributed significantly to the socio economic development of Grenada in general and to the people of the rural sector in particular.

The University of The West Indies Following preliminary discussions held between the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Ministry of Agriculture in 2008, regarding enhancing collaboration and mutual cooperation between both entities, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the two institutions on April 7th 2009 in the Cabinet Room. This was indeed a significant milestone as UWI has pledged its commitment to provide an array of assistance to the agri-food sector in Grenada. Under the MOU, UWI would provide critical support in the revitalization of the pivotal agri-food sector in Grenada by assisting the Ministry of Agriculture in (1) developing its research agenda that will benefit the agric-food sector, (2) assisting in the human capacity development within the Ministry of Agriculture and (3) provision of technical support for the rehabilitation of the nutmeg and cocoa subsectors.

The Chinese Agricultural Mission During the year under review, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Chinese Technical Mission collaborated in a number of areas that turned out to be very beneficial to both entities. In addition, the Mission worked closely with private farmers and farmers’ organizations.

IICA contributed to the fulfillment of Grenada’s obligations under the agricultural mandates of the Summit of the Americas, which are reflected in the Agro Plan 20032015. (The Agro Plan represents a vision for agriculture, shared by all IICA Member States.) To facilitate effective implementation of its activities, IICA operates through national Annual Work Plans which take into consideration the agriculture sector’s priority needs as well as the Institute’s resource capabilities.

Following is a list of some of the interventions made by the Chinese Mission in Guided by its 2009 Work Plan, IICA con2009: tributed to the following achievements in • Training of farmers in improving the the agriculture sector: architecture of tree crops through sys• Enhanced leadership capabilities tematic pruning within the Ministry of Agriculture • Provided an opportunity for a number (MOA), at the policy, administrative of persons involved in the agri-food and technical levels. This was made sector to receive training in China in a possible through IICA’s sponsorship of number of disciplines. the participation of three senior MOA officials in a Forum for Leaders in Ag• Provision of planting materials to riculture. The three officials were the farmers. Minister of Agriculture (Honourable Michael D. Lett), the then Permanent • Training of persons in cut flower, fruit Secretary (Mrs. Gemma Bain-Thomtree and vegetable production. as), and the Director of Research and Development (Dr. Malachy Dottin). • Training of flower growers in floral arThe Forum was held at IICA’s Centre rangements. for Leadership in Agriculture, in Costa • Training of officers and farmers in pig Rica, during the period February 9-13, production. 2009. Subsequently (September 7th – 11th), two MOA professionals (Misses Inter-American Institute for Kimberly Thomas and Allison Haynes) Cooperation on Agriculture participated in the IICA-sponsored 2nd Hemispheric Forum for Young The Inter-American Institute for CooperaLeaders in Agriculture of the Amerition on Agriculture (IICA) is the specialcas, which was also held in Costa Rica. ized agency for agriculture and rural life in the Americas. IICA’s activities in Grenada • Improved leadership skills and team during 2009 were in accordance with its building capabilities of twenty poNational Technical Cooperation Agenda tential young leaders in agriculture (NTCA) for the country. (The NTCA, deand rural development. These young veloped in consultation with key agriculpeople, selected by the MOA, parture sector stakeholders, is geared towards ticipated in a 3-day (September 16-18) supporting efforts to address the country’s residential National Forum for Young agriculture sector priority needs.) Those acLeaders in Agriculture and Rural Detivities were based on guidelines contained velopment, held at the Flamboyant in the Institute’s 2006-2010 Medium Term Hotel. The Forum, co-sponsored by Plan. As a result of activities undertaken, MOA and IICA, was conducted by two

48 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Support Received from Collaborating Institutions and/ or Donors Continued

international leadership experts from IICA Headquarters and the University of Nebraska, respectively, with support from three appropriately trained young nationals (two from the MOA and one from the Grenada Bureau of Standards). •

•

•

•

Increased knowledge of, and skills in, cassava production and processing, through participation of sixteen agri-entrepreneurs (members of the national chapters of Caribbean Agri Business Association – CABA, and Caribbean Network of Rural Women Producers - CANROP), two Agriculture Science teachers and one student in an intensive 2-day workshop on Cassava Production and Processing. The workshop was organized by IICA, and conducted by two Agronomists (Mr. Gabriel Clarke and Ms. Allison Haynes) from the MOA.

Eighteen Thousand and Sixty-three Canadian Dollars (Can$18,063.00), from the Canadian Fund for Local Initiative towards implementation of a project titled “Developing the Capability of CABA Members to Collect, Re-use, and Recycle Organic Waste”. (Funding was received in November 2009.) CABA’s access to funding was • facilitated by IICA. •

Enhanced technical capabilities of twenty-six persons, mainly young • agricultural extension officers and members of the national chapters of CABA, CANROP, and Caribbean Agricultural Forum for Youth (CAFY), who participated in a workshop on Agri tourism & Agribusiness Management. The workshop was organized by IICA, and facilitated jointly by Ms. Kimberly Thomas and Mr. Michael Church (jnr.), two MOA professionals attached to the Ministry’s Planning Unit. Increased project development capability of twenty-four persons, drawn from the MOA, Grenada Association of Beekeepers (GAB), and the national chapters of CABA and CANROP. These persons were par- • ticipants in a 2-day Resource Mobilization Workshop which was organized by the local IICA Office, and conducted by IICA’s Caribbean Regional Project Specialist (Mr. Kervin Stephenson). Receipt of funding by the national chapter of CABA, in the amount of

Improved technological capability of farmers involved in agricultural production under shade houses. These farmers were provided with hands-on training by a highly qualified and experienced shadehouse/green- • house technologist from Jamaica. The training was organized and sponsored by IICA. It also included a follow-up 1-week training visit to Jamaica by a local greenhouse farmer (Mr. Winston Ottley) and an Agronomist (Ms. Allison Haynes). Enhanced local plant quarantine capabilities, through participation of three local plant quarantine technicians in a one week Regional Workshop (held in Grenada) for the Identification of Coleopteran Pests of Importance to the Region. The technicians were trained in identifying and effectively managing specific pests of quarantine significance. The workshop was organized and conducted jointly by IICA, MOA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA/APHIS), and Florida Association of Voluntary Agencies for the Caribbean and the Americas (FAVACA).

(in epidemiology principles) of local livestock personnel, and the provision of necessary equipment and materials for the conduct of relevant disease surveillance programmes. The project was administered and coordinated by IICA. Enhanced capability of some members of CABA, CAFY and CANROP to produce safer foods, through their participation in a workshop on Organic Agriculture & Good Agricultural Practices. The workshop was organized and conducted jointly by IICA and MOA. Increased stakeholder awareness of the potential for increased production and consumption of safer foods, and the need for a comprehensive approach to organic food production. Approximately forty agriculture stakeholders participated in a 1-day organic agriculture workshop which was organized jointly by MOA and IICA, and facilitated by an IICA Consultant (Dr. Patrick Chesney) who, during the days just prior to the workshop, visited a number of key stakeholders to help determine the interest in, and potential for, organic agriculture in Grenada. Dr. Chesney subsequently presented his findings in a report titled Technical and Economic Feasibility of Organic Agriculture in Grenada (Towards an “Organic Spice Isle”: a clean and green approach to food production).

Increased capability of MOA’s Livestock Division to establish and maintain an active livestock disease surveillance programme. This was achieved through the Grenada’s participation in the regional Veterinary Epidemiology/Para-Epidemiology (VEP) project which facilitated the training

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 49

Support Received from Collaborating Institutions and/ or Donors Continued

CARDI The Caribbean Agriculture Research and Development Institute (CARDI) continues to make significant strides in the research agenda for Grenada. The research projects undertaken in the period under review and results are as follows:

Improving Goat Rearing Capabilities in Grenada

Boer goats (meat breed) - one buck and vegetable seedlings distributed were tomato, seven does. lettuce, salad pepper then seasoning pepper. Another demonstration unit was constructed at Telescope, St. Andrews, Grenada. It was stocked with eight goats of various milk breeds – One Saanen, two Saanen/ Toggenburg and four Saanen/Alpine. This unit was commissioned in September. All animals for both projects were sourced locally.

Two training sessions, one on silage making and another on haymaking were conducted To improve the production system for small with farmers at the demonstration sites at ruminants and raise the managerial capabil- Telescope and Carriacou. ity of producers in order to increase the Increased Availability of level of livestock farm profitability. Objectives:

Collaborators: Ministry of Agriculture, IICA, Caribbean Agro Industries ADM Ltd. and Farmers.

Seeds, Seedlings and Other Vegetative Planting Material for Farmers.

Objectives: The project, which was funded under the To contribute directly to agricultural proCARDI/IICA Agreement, seeks to imduction in Grenada. prove the production system for small ruminants and to demonstrate the use of Achievements: proper housing. Over 353, 000 vegetable seedlings were proAchievements: duced and distributed to farmers, householders and gardeners. This was a 12% inOne demonstration unit was constructed crease over the previous year. Most popular at Dover, Carriacou and stocked with eight

• Goat Milking at Belmont Estate, St. Patrick

50 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

• Hay Making at Laura Estate, St. David

Other planting materials distributed were as follows: To the Ministry of Agriculture, 4159 Julie mango scion, 700 golden apple seeds and a small quantity of cashew nut seeds. To farmers, small amounts of sweet potato and cassava plants.

Determination of the Adaptability of Three Corn Accessions Can Produce Good Quality, which Farmers Can Reuse for Planting Material. Objectives: To establish the adaptability of three open pollinated corn varieties. Results: Three varieties were tested, namely YC-001 (brought in from Belize), Suan and Carriacou (Land race from Carriacou). Parameters measured were cob length, cob diameter, plant height, ear height and seed weight. YC-001 proved to be the best variety followed by Suan in the characteristics of cob diameter and seed weight. Suan was the

• Cassava Harvesting at Laura Estate, St. David

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 51

Support Received from Collaborating Institutions and/ or Donors Continued

better variety in the characteristic of plant height as it was the shortest. In the case of ear height, YC-001 and Suan were the better varieties as they bore their ears closer to ground level.

On-Farm Validation of CARDI Tested Technology of Dwarfing System for Golden Apple

Enhancing Hot Pepper Productivity

Objectives:

Objectives: This trial consisted of testing five chemicals for stem borer control in hot peppers. Results: At eleven months after planting, Actara, Admire and ‘GSR Calcium plus sugar’ showed no incidence of stem borer while Bio-Neem, Rogor Blue and GSR Calcium experienced low incidence of the pest. One can preliminarily conclude that Actara, GSR Calcium and Admire can be used successfully to manage stem borers in hot pepper.

Assisting in Develop a Sustainable Papaya Industry in Grenada Objectives: 1.

Scientifically verify the tolerance of Red Lady papaya to bunchy top disease

2.

Document tolerance of Red Lady papaya to bunchy top disease.

fice at Grenville. CARDI highlighted pictures of a number of different processed cassava products with a view to engendering the increased consumption of cassava in the population.

CARDI also conducted its second annual Open Day on 9th December 2009 at the To validate on-farm the dwarfing technolCARDI Field Station. ogy for golden apple The Open Day focused on two aspects: Results: 1. Youth One ½ acre on farm validation plot established at La Digue, St. Andrews. One half 2. Cassava Utilization. of the plot contains grafted plants (which is part of the dwarfing technology) while the As a result students of forms four and five other half contains seedling plants to which from the surrounding secondary schools no treatment was given and which one ex- and the Mirabeau Agricultural Training School were particularly invited to participects will result in tall plants. pate. A cassava pastry making demonstraPromotion of CARDI to the tion by “Mamma Manioc” which showed the utilization of sweet cassava in various Public ways gave the participants a new outlook on cassava utilization. Objectives: To promote the work of the institute and Also participants received a guided field tour to observe CARDI field activities. disseminate information to stakeholders. Gift packs of CTA agricultural booklets were distributed to the attending schools CARDI participated in the World Food Day and participants in general. Inclusive in the Exhibition which was staged in the street booklets was one on making cassava flour. outside of the Agricultural Extension OfAchievement:

Results: After 11 months into the crop, both Red Lady and Tainung varieties showed a much greater degree of tolerance to bunchy top than the local Solo selection.

• Mirabeau Propagation Station, St. Andrew

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Ministry of Agriculture’s 4H Movement

T

he youth arm of the Ministry of Agriculture, the 4H movement, strives for continuous success in inspiring young people to become involved in and to envision their fortunes in agriculture. The instrumental role of the 4H movement should not be understated as far as it relates to sustainability of Grenada’s agricultural sector and ensuring National Food and Nutrition Security. In the near future, as in the past, many of the young industrious agri-entrepreneurs will be products of the 4H Movement. The main goal of the Movement is to empower young people with skills and values that will enable them to earn a livelihood honestly, to be able to feed and sustain their families later on in life, whilst being good role models for their peers and younger generations. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Agriculture’s 4H Movement continued the promotion of Agriculture at the primary school level in a very practical way. In 2009, the Movement was able to maintain its 2600 membership. Reactivation of two clubs in St. David’s brought the movement to a total of 56 clubs including those in Carriacou and Petite Martinque. In the year 2009, several activities were embarked upon and successfully realized. Activities pinpointed as the hallmarks of the 4 H’ers successes were: the 4H Movement 50th Anniversary Celebration in June 2009, 4H Leaders’ Convention, Junior Leadership Training, the National Gardening Competition and a Parish Quiz Competition. A number of agricultural projects were undertaken which resulted in the 4 H’ers surpassing the agriculture production output achieved in 2008.

• 4H’ers Havesting Fruits

The 4 H’ers Poultry Project had one of the most exceptional performances. In 2009 4H’ers throughout the Tri-island State of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique operated a total of seventeen (17) poultry units, each built to accommodate one hundred broilers, and forty seven individual units, also built to accommodate broilers. As a result, during the year 2009, a total of 15,896 lbs of poultry meat was produced.

surroundings, cleaning of elderly homes and replanting of trees. Their commercial produce was sold to community members, supermarkets and to a lesser extent, the National School Feeding Programme. The 4’H’ers have been elated by their successes in 2009 which was projected to have met 80% of full accomplishment. With great enthusiasm, the 4H’ers look forward to agricultural related activities in 2010.

A Rabbit Project was also initiated in the period under review. The aim of the project was to facilitate the initial stock and distribute this to members within the Council to assist them to become involved in rabbit rearing.

The aspiring agri-entrepreneurs were also trained extensively in composting, both theory and practical training, so that they could begin to compost bio-degradables. They were also trained in the areas of Livestock Production, Poultry Management, Despite the severity of the 2009 drought, Rabbit Rearing, Group Dynamics and Arts the 4 H’ers harvested a total of eleven and Craft. thousand four hundred and seventy eight pounds (11,478lbs) of fruits and vegetables As is customary, the 4 H’ers are trained from their gardens. Some of the major to be socially responsible, and as a result, crops harvested were bananas (3515 lbs), they were engaged in numerous commuSweet Potatoes (1,565 lbs) and Carambola, nity projects which included cleaning of Guava and Limes (1922 lbs). beaches and rivers, beautification of school GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 53

GFAFO at a Glance!

G

FAFO Inc. was incorporated in Grenada on June 11th, 2004 (Company No. 78 of 2004 – 3744) under the Companies Act 1994 as an independent, non-governmental, voluntary, not-for-profit organization. It is governed by and represents agricultural and fisheries organizations and producers at all levels. GFAFO Inc is the umbrella Producer organization in Grenada representing the interest of Farmers and Fisher folk. Our Vision Statement for GFAFO is: ’To create more profitable, viable, sustainable, equitable, innovative and competitive agricultural and fisheries enterprises through unified effort.’ Our Mission Statement is: To represent the interest of the agricultural and fisheries sectors, influence the delivery of beneficial policy outcomes, and provide programmes which will improve the financial well-being and quality of life for all agricultural and fisheries producers.

Among the activities recently undertaken by GFAFO Inc. are (a) Selection of the Representative for Agriculture in the Upper House, (b) coordination of initiative with the Royal Norwegian Society for Development (a non-governmental and non-profit organization consisting of 41 member organizations and 1100 individual members, referred to as “NORGES VEL” ), whose main focus is to contribute to viable local communities through sustainable business development worldwide for a Memorandum of Understanding to promote and facilitate support for the community and rural enterprise development initiative in Grenada, (c) lobbed support for the exemption of fresh agricultural produce, fresh livestock products, fish and bee products from the Value Added Tax (VAT), and (d) leading negotiations for the introduction of a crop insurance scheme in Grenada.

Review of Agriculture in

Carriacou

and

Petite Martinique

The organization is comprised of eight elected officers and ordinary members. The current elected officers are outlined below: Chairman Deputy Chairman General Secretary Assistant General Secretary Treasurer Public Relations Assistant Public Relation Officer Secretary

Mr. Fitzroy James Mr. Elliot Bishop Mr. Curtis Baptiste Mr. Jeffery Augustine Mr. Milton Gabriel Mr. John Batik Ms. Leslyne Nancoo Ms. Evelyn De Coteau

• Farm Worker at Laura Estate, St. David

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GRENADA’S ANNUAL A AGRICULTURE REVIEW EVIEW 09 | 55

Review of Agriculture in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

Fruit, Vegetables and Root Crop Subsectors in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

I

n 2009 the Department of Agriculture’s Propagation Unit provided farmers with planting materials which included citrus, mangoes, avocadoes, corn and pea seeds and other input subsides in fertilizers. The resuscitation of the Belair Nursery facilitated the preparation and sale of seedlings to farmers, in addition to planting materials received from the Ministry of Agriculture (See Table 24). The Department of Agriculture is cognizant of the critical importance of supporting and providing assistance for the increased production of agricultural produce as a means of cushioning the high cost of

production for agricultural products and the escalating cost of agricultural products in Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Support was therefore provided to farmers by means of a bulldozer for the clearing of pastures, farms, farm roads and ponds. There is no formal and institutionalized agricultural statistical data collected on Carriacou and Petite Martinique’s agriculture and as a result it is difficult to ascertain the performance of the fruit, root crops and vegetables subsectors. Nonetheless, there was evidence of scattered fruit production and two major fruit orchards, a 2 acre orange and grapefruit orchard, cashew nut orchard

in Boogles Postest, a small area of mango orchard in Belina, and a mixed cultivation fruit orchard in Grand Bay, which has been able to supply the local markets and the School Feeding Programme. In 2009, there was some notable export activity with an established importer in attempt to supply the Diaspora in Brooklyn New York with fruits, vegetables and root crops. The products exported were supplied to the exporter by a few organized farmers. However, most of the islands vegetable needs are imported.

Table 24: Plant Production and Distribution in Carriacou for 2005-2009

• Goat Facility, Carriacou

C

Plants Citrus Mango Minor Fruits & Spices Totals

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Received Received Received Received Received from from from from from PropaPropaPropaPropaPropagation Distribugation Distribugation Distribugation Distribugation DistribuGrenada tion Grenada tion Grenada tion Grenada tion Grenada tion 347 471 466 314 618 312 609 412 295 274 1,262 29 27 47 37 158 150 261 252 205

195

317

300

486

241

408

409

593

629

552

666

812

641

1,151

590

1,175

971

1149

1,155

*Distribution figures exceeding number of plants received from Grenada is indicative of local plant production efforts

arriacou and Petite Martinique’s agriculture, as is the case in the Spice Isle, is engraved in the culture of its people. The traditional subsistence farming practices by families have not been a lost tradition for the people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Many farmers still rear a few animals, plant their corn and peas and a few root crops especially cassava, which is used to make farine and the famous “beetee” (flour made from cassava). Despite the existing agrarian culture in the Sister Isle, farming has been struggling to reach a fully commercial and export viable level. Many of the products, especially root crops and vegetables, are being imported from St. Vincent and mainland Grenada. The main deterrents to the commercial production of root crops and vegetables in Carriacou were identified as infestation of pest and diseases, inadequate access to farm machinery, regular drought periods and limited access to irrigation technology. In light of these challenges, the Department of Agriculture in Carriacou has been working unremittingly to increase agriculture production so as to improve the food security status and the livelihoods of the people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, by developing a sustainable agriculture sector.

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GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 57

Livestock Subsector in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

E

xcellent gene stock of sheep, pigs and goats can be found in Carriacou. Culturally, small ruminants are reared in open pasture areas and also neighbouring abandoned lands. However, with this practice there has been a high incidence of dog predation and praedial larceny. Animal rearing however, has not been fully commercialized in Carriacou and as a result there have been high meat imports, especially poultry products. Few livestock farmers however, have established backward linkages with hotels in Grenada to provide a consistent supply of livestock meat products, mostly small ruminants. In 2009, the Department of Agriculture was able to implement the Food Security Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture which provided layers and broilers to small farmers in an effort the boost the poultry subsector in Carriacou.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Caribbean Agriculture Research Institute (CARDI) and IICA, the Department of Agriculture successfully launched the goat-rearing project. The intention was to make Carriacou the Centre of Excellence for Small Ruminants. The Caribbean Agriculture Research Institute (CARDI) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) funded the US$40,000 project. The Ministry of Agriculture also contributed a sum of EC$98,142.26 to the Project.

of the Ministry of Agriculture, Grenada. The project is aimed at encouraging commercial production of small ruminants, which would potentially contribute to food security and an increase in export earnings.

The Artificial Insemination Programme was also introduced in Carriacou and Petite Martinique. The programme was launched in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture. Staff at the Department of Agriculture’s Livestock Division received training in artificial insemination, both in Trinidad and Grenada. The necessary infrastructure was Under the Project two goat demonstration also constructed at Dumfries in support of pens were constructed at the farms of two the programme. farmers and a similar structure was made at the Limliar Farm. These farms are used as Apiculture Development is also seen as a schools or learning centres for other farm- thriving programme at the Limliar Farm ers and the student body of Carriacou and in Carriacou. The Farm has been the only Petite Martinque. The project has also been supplier of high quality honey which is disfully supported and has received technical tributed throughout Carriacou and Petite expertise from the Livestock Department Martinique.

• Demonstration Goat House, Carriacou

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Fisheries Subsector in Carriacou and Petite Martinique

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he Fisheries Division in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Fisheries Division embarked upon a establishing a Marine Protected Area on Sandy Island. After several consultations at each of the five zones of the parishes, public awareness was heightened and the Sandy Island/Oyster’s Bed Marine Park Project was launched. A new fish market was constructed in 2009 with the relevant amenities for fish storage. The Fisheries Division in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture hosted a number of training

initiatives with fishermen in the areas of enhancing safety at sea and catches improvement. Regular inspection of fishing vessels was conducted by the Fisheries Unit in Carriacou in collaboration with the Environmental Health Division in order to ensure the standards required for the fish trade with Martinque is maintained. Fish production in Carriacou amounted to 658,626 lbs in 2009 compared to 291,388 lbs in 2008. The Production value of 2009 caught was $714,795.

Policy Directives

Projects for the Future

Several policies were addressed in the year under review. The Department of Agriculture was able to provide support to farmers through continuous partnership, consultation and collaboration. The formation of farmer’s organizations was encouraged and as a result special assistance was provided to the existing Farmers Association in the construction of an outlet and office at Hillsborough. The Belair Nursery was resuscitated as a policy response in order to ensure availability and improve the consistency of planting materials.

Farmers in Carriacou indicated that prime agricultural lands are left abandoned by owners who have migrated. A project geared toward rehabilitating these abandoned farms back into production would make a significant contribution to improving food security in Carriacou and Petit Martinique. A root crop project in Carriacou is also essential for improving food security in Carriacou. One of the major problems that such a project should address is the availability of planting materials and eradication of pest and diseases, especially rodent control. Carriacou and Petit Martinique are also in severe need of improved farming systems which would include effective drought mitigation strategies such as water harvesting. There has also been a notable increase in the interest of young people in agriculture in Carriacou which warrants governments support and efforts to create the enabling environment which would ensure that there is opportunity and the relevant resources for young people to become successful agrientrepreneurs.

Stakeholders however, have requested policy address on increasing the number of farm machinery tools available to farmers, the construction of an abattoir and the allowance for farmers to pay for land clearing services after service delivery, introducing the distribution of subsidized fertilizer and the introduction of new varieties in planting materials at the Belair Nursery. Only two farmers on the island are currently using irrigation technology. An aggressive intervention to introduce irrigation technology must be considered. A designated area (Mt. Royal) should be earmarked for vegetable production with a readily available water source and rainwater harvesting techniques being the main criteria. This land use policy can significantly contribute to the increased production of vegetables and other food needs.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 59

Annual Review Articles

Farm to Table? – An Interesting Question – But What Does It Mean? By Pancy Cross

Dear Reader’s

The Articles of 2009 are geared towards enticing our read readers to glimpse the vision for sustainable agriculture development and to understand the integral role that agri-business plays in our country’s overall development. The Agri-food Sector in Grenada cross cuts, if not all, many developmental sectors in our economy and must therefore be fur further developed in tandem with these sectors. To ensure the modernization of the Agriculture Sector in Grenada, agriculture development should not be pursued in isolation but the appropriate synergies and inter-sectorial linkages must be sorted out. We advocate that agriculture be linked to manufacturing, tourism, education and the like. It is in this context that we present you the following articles. Enjoy your reading! Chief Editor

Authors Leonard St. Bernard Pancy Cross

Articles Growing Potential for Agri-Food Stakeholders in Agro-Processing Farm to Table? – An Interesting Question – But What Does It Mean?

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hese days many chefs in the developed world, and a steadily rising number of chefs in the Caribbean, speak about running a ‘farm to table’ restaurant but, to the vast majority of the population of Grenada, this begs the question, what do they mean? The simple answer is that these chefs focus on using locally grown produce in the dishes they prepare for their patrons. Ideally ‘farm to table’ chefs would have contracts with farmers, visit the farm often, preferably once a week, to determine what fresh produce is available, and plan their menus to suit. Developing a strong relationship, based on trust, with the farmer, one would assume, would lead to better prospects for the success of the restaurant. Though not a guarantee, effective marketing of the source of the ingredients in their dishes, by way of a brief history or bio of the farm and farmer, would help to cement the relationship between both entities, and encourage patrons to learn more about the farm in question which, in turn, may well lead to increased business for the farmer. Many chefs cater to visitors to the island, who may be largely unfamiliar with the ingredients used in ‘local’ dishes. Visitors who,

60 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

read a menu that clearly indicates the contents of the dish, may be inclined to engage the chef in a conversation as to how they may reproduce the dish on their return to their homeland. It goes without saying that this may very well lead to the sale of recipe books prepared by the establishment, and perhaps an increase in the export of produce grown on the island.

diners. They should be able to impart information on how the food is grown, picked, and cooked. In other words, they should ideally be spokespersons for the farmer, as well as the restaurant.

In addition to growing produce on contract for restaurants farmers have, over the years, found it profitable in the developed world, to sell their produce at farmers markets Of course true ‘farm to table’ chefs, in order which cater to both professional chefs, and to ensure freshness, would look to cooking, the general population. and serving, produce purchased from farmQuite often produce available at these marers, within three days of being picked. kets is picked in the late afternoon and is Many persons hearing the term ‘farm to available for purchase in the evening. Howtable’ are under the impression that this ever, in most cases, the produce is picked means that the produce has been organi- in the morning and available in the early cally grown, but this is not the case. Restau- afternoon. Of course, if the produce is rants hoping to attract patrons interests by then cooked in the evening, one would be using ingredients grown in this, increasingly hard placed to find food fresher, and the popular method of farming, would clearly purchaser would have accomplished ‘farm promote this fact. to garden’ at home, and the only way to get fresher than this, is to grow your own proInterestingly, the experts would tell you, is duce, and prepare and cook it immediately that despite the fact that many people be- after picking. lieve that organic foods taste better than conventional foods, this is not entirely true. It is refreshing to hear that these types of markets are springing up in the Caribbean, In order to add to the chances of success, and I look forward to visiting one, should restaurants should ensure their waiting staff the opportunity arise in Grenada. is properly trained and able to converse with GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 61

Growing Potential for Agri-Food Stakeholders in AgroProcessing in Grenada By Leonard St. Bernard

A

gro-Processing has been the buzz- Table 25: Products by Category word in recent years for small subsistence farmers with the in- Groups valuable skill of making locally produced Confectionery, Snack Foods and Dry agricultural fresh fruits into delicious sweet Fruits or salt delicacies and confectionaries. Many of the methodologies of processing and formulas have been passed on from gen- Juice, Beverages and Alcoholic Drinks eration to generation. Long before the introduction of foreign produced corn curls and lollipops, Grenadians were consuming Wet Seasoning and Related Products a substantial amount of locally produced chip-chip, ground-nut-sugar-cake, fudge Honey and Honey Products and guava cheese etc.

• Grenada Chocolate Factory, Hermitage, St. Patrick

62 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Herbs and Dry Seasoning Almost all ‘country girls’ and even boys knew of the painstaking and consistent stirs of guava pulp in sugar over a blazing fireside in Bakery Products an effort to derive that perfect guava cheese, Cocoa Products which would undergo several other processes Ice Cream and Dairy Products before reaching its final state of a finished Cassava products snack. Back then, the processing of the guava into cheese, jellies and jams was intended for a family’s dessert after a heavy lunch of roasted breadfruit and corn fish with leftovers placed Eighty percent (80%) of persons involved in in the glass jar as a welcome gift for the neigh- Agro-Processing in Grenada are rural women. In many cases, they are the main breadwinbours when they passed by. ners in the household. Only 37% percent of Today, Agro-Processing is a commercial ac- all agro-processors surveyed are reported to tivity, even for small agro-processors. It has be full time in the business. become another viable means of sustaining the family and assisting in achieving overall Agro-processors in Grenada receive the vast food security. Agro-Processing has become majority of their business training via semieven more necessary with the limited storage nars (56%) followed by learning from famcapacity for fresh fruits and the high seasonal- ily members (21%). Government sponsored ity of most fruits. The agro processors also training only accounted for (9%) of the busihave the advantage of available market access, ness skills training received, according to a especially the members of the Diaspora in the survey. The level of education achieved by developed world who long for the taste of the agro-processors is representative of the education levels on the island with 36% havdelicacies from Grenada every so often. ing a secondary school education and 33% Presently, there are two hundred and seventy having a primary school education. persons (270) registered with the Grenada Bureau of Standards that can be classified as The agro-processors over the years have atAgro-processors. They produce a wide variety tempted to form themselves into two groups. of products, utilizing a very diverse amount They are Grenada Association of Small Agroof raw materials that have been produced by processors (GASAP) and Grenada Network local farmers as well as by themselves and of Rural Women Producers (GRENROP). The majority of agro-processors are not other family members. members of either of these organizations. These agro-processed goods can be grouped GASAP is the only agro processing entity that generally into categories as shown in Table 25 is officially registered to date. These organizations were mainly formed by the Agro-pro-

Specific Products Fudge (Milk/Coconut). Cheese (Guava/Nutmeg). Tamarind Balls. Noni juice. Wines. Liqueur. Seasoning Pepper. Hot Pepper Sauce. Honey. Honey Blends. Ground Herbs and Spices (Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Parsley, Bay Leaf etc). Cakes packaged for sale. Cocoa Ball, Sticks and Blocks Pen-A-Cool. Farine and Cassava products

cessors in an attempt to be in alignment with the strategic objectives of international and regional allied and donor organizations, so that they can benefit from the various training projects and grant schemes offered by these organizations.

Major Issues/Problems Identified Some major problematical areas have been identified as hindrances to the products of Agro-Processing reaching their fullest potential. The Bureau of Standards, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, and allied donors organizations are cognizant of these challenges and are committed to assist in curbing these problems. A number of underlining issues have been identified in the agro processing subsector for which immediate and decisive actions are needed. These include:

Product Quality In a general sense, the quality of agro processed products in Grenada is of an accept-

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 63

Growing Potential for Agri-Food Stakeholders in AgroProcessing in Grenada Continued

able standard. That implies that more than half the agro processors meet the requirements of the national standard except in the production of local soaps where the alkali content and moisture level is usually higher than the national standard. Wet seasoning is another area where continuous work has to be done. Ground spices have been identified as the most problematic area in terms of product quality. The lack of proper milling facilities is a major impediment, as well as virtually no sifting being done, which requires using various screen sizes to classify the material in the post grinding phase. There is also the issue of contamination as a result of other products that were previously ground in the mill. Product quality issues also stem from the choice of materials used to package the products and the fact that processors tend to choose the cheapest materials without factoring in product quality as an issue in making such decisions. In some cases, proper packaging materials are not readily available on the island.

able and the ability of the processors to put the products into the package. Most of the products are hand packaged and as a result, variations in size and uniformity are very evident. However, where equipment is employed, the problem is more or less non-existent. Appropriate mills, filling machines and choppers are virtually non-existent in (90%) ninety percent of the cases where these issues arise. Almost all of the small processors who have been audited, have no form of quality control in their operations even though most of them are aware of the critical need and have had some form of exposure to quality issues in the past.

Packaging

All the packaging used by the agro processors is imported into Grenada. About 35% of agro-processors import their packaging themselves. These are usually the larger processors, the remainder usually purchase from larger organisations such as; The Grenada Bureau of Standards, the Bee Keepers Association and other private companies who sell packaging, There is however, a serious interest in comply- for example Bags Limited. ing with HACCP standards among the larger producers who already have some form of Some processors already have duty free quality control in place and are ready to go to concessions on the packaging they import the next step. These include The Belmont Es- through the Bee Keepers Association or their tate and Glenelg Spring Water. own business (if large enough to qualify); the majority do not enjoy that privilege.

Product Consistency

Product consistency is a major issue among the smaller producers who, for many different reasons, lack equipment and proper storage capacity for their raw materials and have absolutely no quality control equipment. These have been classified as low skilled processors. Some of these agro processors have been exposed to training but have not applied it to any of their products. Many of these products are only sold in local communities or rural towns and do not enjoy a wide radius of distribution.

Additional Support Generally speaking, processors have been requesting assistance in terms of sourcing of equipment, training (HACCP), technical assistance in the field and financial support for purchasing packaging and equipment. Additionally, training in Marketing (69 persons), Quality Control (58 persons) and Souvenir Packaging (55 persons) are the most highly requested by the processors audited.

Several assistance programmes have been organized for agro-processors over the years which have significantly improved these agriSize and Uniformity entrepreneurs in growing their businesses and Size and uniformity of products are governed improving the levels of efficiency in producsignificantly by the packaging materials avail- tion. One of the projects that made a huge

64 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

impact in improving the standard and quality of operations of local agro-processors was the FAO coordinated (EU funded) Livelihood Development via Agro-Processing Project. The project undertook some major activities which included the Audit of Agro-processors, Procurement of quality control equipment, the formation of clusters, an association of small agro-processors and procurement of packaging materials among others. (See Table 26 for achievement). It is estimated that on average, an agro processor collected $ 40,000.00 in revenue in 2009 with 60% of this income being spent on inputs to make the product. With approximately 270 registered agro-processors this means that approximately 6.4 Million dollars in 2009, was spent by agro-processors procuring inputs for their business and this is a very conservative estimate. It is expected that the level of Agro-Processing will increase in the future with all the work being done for the sector by the Government of Grenada, through various international and regional donor agencies. With increasing levels of Agro-Processing, the demand for farm products is no doubt increasing and will continue to steadily increase especially since a large portion of these products are exported directly or indirectly. We have already seen a chronic shortage in some inputs such as coconuts, cloves, cinnamon and bananas at the end of 2009. Serious efforts must therefore be invested into the replanting of primary products. There is no doubting that Agro-Processing is ‘big business’ for these small entrepreneurs and could be a powerful avenue in sustaining their livelihoods. It is a source of self-empowerment especially for rural women and a means of preserving the traditional tastes of Grenada. All the necessary support; technical, infrastructural and financial must be made accessible to facilitate the growing potential for innovation and product enhancement which will ‘open the door’ for world renowned superior products that can become the future taste of Grenada for international trade.

Growing Potential for Agri-Food Stakeholders in AgroProcessing in Grenada Continued

Table 26: Major Activities Undertaken in 2009 Activities Audit of Agro-Processors

Quality Control Equipment

Formation of the Grenada Association of Small Agro-Processors Cluster Formation

Recruitment of a Management Professional to Work with Agro-Processors Based on the Terms of Reference Developed by Dr. Thomas, (Former Coordinator of the Agro Processing Programme Described Earlier) and Circulated to Members Technical Assistance given to Agro-processors

Analysis of Samples of Agro-Processed Goods. Agro-Processing Activities Supported Under the Project.

Agro-Processors Directory to be Published

Packaging Materials Ordered Under the Project’s Revolving Fund.

Status Audit was successfully completed and a comprehensive report was submitted in March of 2009 to the FAO Head Office in Rome and to the Ministry of Agriculture Grenada. Basic equipment necessary for the quality control of agro-processed goods was identified by the coordinator and this equipment was subsequently ordered by the office in Barbados from Pantrade Ltd, Miami Florida. The equipment was received, cataloged and commissioned in September 2009. This equipment has already been put into use to provide technical assistance and individual training to some agro-processors who have shown intereSt. As well as being used to monitor the quality of agro-processed products. The equipment is at the Grenada Bureau of Standards Analytical Laboratory. With the assistance of the project the association was officially launched in April of 2009. The association still continues to receive technical assistance from the coordinator on a regular basis Four clusters have been successfully formed to date. These are the Cocoa Ball Cluster, Confectionery Cluster, Herbs and Dried Spices Cluster and Wet Seasoning Cluster. There are two other clusters scheduled to be launched in the upcoming year 2011. For 2009, two modules of the Business Skills training has been successfully completed with good attendance (twenty (20) persons per session, two (2) sessions each) and a high level of participation by Agro-processors the other ten (10) modules will be completed by September 2010. Over one hundred different (100) agro-processors have received technical assistance from the National Agro-Processing Coordinator in 2009. This assistance was given mainly in the areas of quality control and testing. However, several field visits have been made to assist with on site issues. One hundred and fifteen (115) samples of products were analyzed in 2009. Assistance was given to the President of GASAP in the preparation of a document that was submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Marketing Officer for consideration for support under the project Promoting the Consumption Domestic Food Products. There was also a small exhibition on the 24th of October 2009 which was organized by the members of GASAP (technically supported by the project) in conjunction with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce at Frequente Industrial Park. This enabled the processors to meet with the local distributors so as to get their product distributed island wide. The Agro-Processors Directory was published and successfully launched with the Ministry of Agriculture’s, Agriculture Review. This even was held on December 15th 2009. Delivery was received the first week of December 2010.

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 65

T

he Ministry of Agriculture’s Land Use Division has been the implementers of the National Water Information System Initiative which was formally launched in 2009. The project has been able to provide meteorological information for the Agriculture Sector and has also been made this available nationally. The data collected revealed that Grenada has experienced one of its driest wet seasons for many decades. The devastation of the Natural Forest Reserves in the interior of the island and the Coastal Forest by hurricanes Ivan and Emily did not improve the situation. Areas in the interior of the island, for example Belvidere, Clozier, Mt. Rodney, Plaisance Estate and Grand Etang, that usu-

ally experience above 4000 mm of rainfall in the rainy season, with no dry months, experienced 1 to 2 dry months in 2009. There was therefore a significant amount of stress on agriculture crop production in the year under review, especially the traditional crops and crops planted between November 2008 to January 2009. As was indicated in Figure 21, rainfall in 2009 was drastically below average. For the periods March to September 2009, rainfall was 50% below normal; October 2009 to January 2010 ranged between 37% to 19% of normal rainfall. The lower than normal rainfall in 2009 resulted in very low inflows in the islands rivers.

Meteorological Observations 2009 The Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) for analysis also revealed rainfall deficit in 2009. The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), which was developed by T.B. Mckeee, N.J. Doesken and J. Kleist of Colorado State University, was used to investigate drought and precipitation in Grenada. This index is favourable for investigating and monitoring drought and periods with extremely high precipitation. It also has the capability to provide an early warning for extended drought periods. Positive values are an indication of greater than median rainfalls whilst negative values indicate less than median rainfall.

Continued

Figure 22: Rainfall Comparison 2008 & 2009 200.0 180.0 160.0 140.0

Quantity (inches)

Meteorological Observations 2009

120.0 100.0 80.0 60.0 40.0 20.0

Figure 21: Rainfall Comparison in 2009 vs Average Rainfall

0.0

200.0

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August September October November

Years

180.0

Total Rainfall 2008

160.0

Total Rainfall 2009

Quantity (inches)

140.0

Table 27: SPI Values and Precipitation Intensities (Mckee et al 1993)

120.0

SPI 2.0 + 1.5 to 1.99 1.0 to 1.49 -0.99 to 0.99 -1.0 to -1.49 -1.5 to -1.99 -2.0 and less

100.0 80.0 60.0 40.0 20.0

Category Extremely wet Very wet Moderately wet Near normal Moderately dry Severely dry Extremely dry

Probability (%) 2.3 4.4 9.2 68.2 9.2 4.4 2.3

According to the SPI index, in 2009 for Grenada, was extremely dry (SPI -2.47) compared to moderately dry precipitation in 2008 (SPI -0.81). Conditions experienced in 2007 (SPI -0.86) and 2006 (SPI 0.46) were much more favourable for agriculture production. SPIs for 2004 and 2005 respectively were 2.12 and 1.46 which were categorized as extremely wet.

0.0 January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August September October November

Years Monthly Rainfall in 2009

66 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Average Monthly Rainfall

Table 28: Average Rainfall in Inches at Selected Monitoring Stations (2004- 2009) Monitoring Stations 2004 2005 2006 Lower Marli (North) 5.76 6.55 5.01 Mt. Hartman (South) 5.64 5.95 4.60 Clozier (West) 13.8 10.2 9.94 Mirabeau Agr. Station (East) 9.48 9.11 6.30

2007 5.06 1.99 8.82 7.35

2008 4.97 4.65 9.04 6.65

2009 4.21 3.73 9.76 5.70

GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 67

Net Food/ Agricultural Trade Balance

Contact Information Ministerial Division/ Allied Organization

• Local Fruit and Vegetables

Table 29: Net Food/Agricultural Trade Balance (2002-2009) Year 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Food/Agriculture Imports 103,222,672 105,749,641 135,001,159 127,755,746 130,044,524 155,725,483 180,252,000 153,375,200

Food/Agriculture Exports 65,280,100 58,475,200 53,084,200 45,312,500 36,188,000 38,011,107 45,942,000 47,712,295

68 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Net Food/Agriculture Imports 37,942,572 47,274,441 81,916,959 82,443,246 93,856,524 117,714,376 134,310,000 105,662,905

Contact Person

Telephone Number (473)

Email

Address

Agronomy Division

Ms. Shira Baldeo

440-3083 ext. 3002 [email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

Biotechnology Division

Dr. Malachy Dottin

440-4460 ext. 3026 [email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

Caribbean Agriculture Research and Development Institute

Mr. Reginald Andall

443-5459/420-1334 [email protected]

Westerhall, St. David

Engineering Division

Mr. Raymond Baptiste

440-2708 ext. 3003 [email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

Extension Division

Mr. Randolph Shears

440-3083 ext. 3001 [email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

Fisheries Division

Mr. Justine Rennie

440-3831

[email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

Forestry Division

Mr. Aden Forteau

440-2934

[email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

Grenada Cocoa and Nutmeg Association

Mr. Marlon Clyne

440-2117/2714

[email protected]

Lagoon Road, St. George

Grenada Cocoa Association

Mr. Andrew Hastick

440-2234/2714

[email protected]

Lagoon Road, St. George

Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Mr. Cosmos Joseph Agriculture

440-5547

[email protected]

The Villa, St. George’s

Marketing National Importing Board

Mr. Fitzroy James

440-1791

[email protected]

Young Street, St. George’s

Minor Spices Cooperative

Mr. Milton Gabriel

443-2604

[email protected]

Laura Land, St. David

Pest and Disease Management Unit

Mr. Paul Graham

Planning Unit

Ms. Kimberly Thomas

Produce Chemist Lab

Dr. Guido Marcelle

Veterinary Division

Dr. Bowen Louison

440-2708 ext. 3018 [email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

National Food Security

Mrs. Ingrid Rush

440-2708 ext. 3040 [email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

440-0019/6219

of pestmanagementunitgda@spiceisle. Ministry Agriculture, Forestry com & Fisheries

440-2708 ext. 3060 [email protected] 440-0105

[email protected]

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

Figures Figure Number

Tables Figure Name

Page Number

Table Number

Table Name

Page Number

1

Fruits Crops Subsectors Performance Indicators 2006-2009

Agricultural Exports 2004-2009

7 7

2

Vegetables Subsectors Performance Indicators 2006-2009

3

Agriculture Subsectors Percentage Contribution to Total Agricultural Export Earnings

7

3

Root Crops Subsectors Performance Indicators 2006-2009

4

Agro-Processing Subsector Performance Indicators

4

Plantlet Production & Distribution for 2005-2009

5

Comparison of Local Poultry Meat Production vs. Imported Poultry Meat

5

Purchases of Tissue Culture Plantlets 2005-2009

6

Livestock Subsector Performance Indicators

6

Tissue Culture Plantlets Production 2005-2009

7

Fish Production in Quantity (lbs) 2003-2009

7

Distribution of Irrigation Technology by Agricultural District in 2008 & 2009

8

Fish Export in Value 2003-2009

8

Fruits, Vegetables and Root Crops Subsectors SWOT Analysis

9

Fisheries Subsector Performance Indicators

9

Processed Products Produced by Number of Agro-processors

10

Forestry Trees Production 2003-2009

10

Agro-Processing Subsector SWOT Analysis

11

Forest Subsector Performance Indicators

11

Results on Animals Inspected

12

Cocoa Production Quantity in Pounds 2003-2009

12

Distribution of Demonstration Housing Facilities by Parishes

13

Cocoa Export in EC Dollar Value

13

Poultry Production in 2009 (Comparison Percentage and Value Increase (Decrease) with Production in 2008)

21

14

Cocoa Subsector Performance Indicators

14

Livestock Subsector SWOT Analysis

15

Nutmeg Export in Quantity 2003-2009

15

Fisheries Subsector SWOT Analysis

16

Mace Export in Quantity 2003-2009

16

Forestry Subsector SWOT Analysis

17

Nutmeg Export in Value 2003-2009

17

Cocoa Propagation Programme 2005-2009

18

Nutmeg Subsector Performance Indicators

18

Cocoa Subsector SWOT Analysis

19

Spice Exported in 2003-2009

19

Propagation of Nutmeg Planting Materials 2005-2009

20

Spice Subsector Performance Indicators

20

Nutmeg Subsector SWOT Analysis

22 26 30 33 34 38 39

21

Rainfall Comparison in 2009 vs Average Rainfall

22

Rainfall Comparison 2008 & 2009

17 20 22 25 25 26 29 30 33 33 34 37 37 37 38 41 43 66 67

10 11 11 12 13 13 13 14 17 18 20 21

21

Quantities of Spice Production in Pounds at Minor Spice Cooperative from 2003-2009

41

22

Quantities of Individual Spices Exported from 2003-2009

23

Spice Subsector SWOT Analysis

24

Plant Production and Distribution in Carriacou for 2005-2009

25

Products by Category

26

Major Activities Undertaken in 2009

27

SPI Values and Precipitation Intensities (Mckee et al 1993)

28

Average Rainfall in Inches at Selected Monitoring Stations (2004-2009)

29

Net Food/Agricultural Trade Balance (2002-2009)

41 43 57 63 65 67 67 68

1

Grenada’s Agriculture Sector Contribution to GDP

2

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GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09 | 71

On the Web Grenada’s Annual Agriculture Reviews can be accessed from the following website: www.gov.gd/ministries/agriculture.html

DOWNLOAD HERE

72 | GRENADA’S ANNUAL AGRICULTURE REVIEW 09

Report designed by:

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The Annual Report Mission Statement To present a review on Grenada’s agriculture sector which highlights developments, identify obstacles, informs problem solving and provides an outlook for future development and agriculture diversification.

Vision Statement Grenada’s Annual Agriculture Review would be the most thorough, yet, concise replica of the sector’s information sort after by all stakeholders including producers, policy makers, donor agencies, academia and marketers of Grenada’s agriculture industry.

Key Activities The Annual Review would; •

allow national planners and decision makers to assess the contribution of agriculture within the overall economy and allocate the necessary resources for its development;

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allow the Ministry of Agriculture to assess the impact of its assistance and to plan future activities;

References •

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provide donor agencies with required statistics, information and analysis to allow them to formulate appropriate assistance to the country and to allow the effectiveness of this assistance to be monitored;

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permit researchers, students, important stakeholders and potential investors to use the • information emanating from the review to great effect.

Agency for Reconstruction and Development. 2005. Modernizing Agriculture in Grenada: A National Policy Strategy. ARD Publications. St. George’s. Food and Agriculture Organization, Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture, Organization of Eastern Caribbean States Secretariat. 2004. Grenada Plan of Action for the Rehabilitation/ Revitalization of the Agricultural Sector in the Aftermath of Hurricane Ivan. Summary Document. Grenada.

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Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture. 2007. Hemispheric Ministerial Agreements: Agro 2003 – 2015 Plan for Agriculture and Rural Life in the Americas. IICA Headquarters. San Jose.

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Central Statistical Office. Grenada: Agriculture Statistics 2009 (unpublished).

CASSAVA DID YOU KNOW?

That cassava is loaded with iron together with vitamin C, which helps your body to take in its iron content? That cassava also contains a healthy amount of magnesium, which assists in protecting your heart, bones, arteries and blood pressure? That research has found that half-cup of cooked cassava has 13% of the required magnesium for men and women and is the best of foods for persons who have hectic lifestyles and high levels of physical activity at work?

Learn more about Cassava… ...Eat more Cassava!