Caribbean Broilers Jamaica Named CARICOM Farmer of the Year at CWA 2024

Caribbean Broilers Jamaica (CB Group) has been named CARICOM Farmer of the Year at the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) 2024, earning regional recognition for its contribution to sustainable agriculture and food security. The award, presented by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), highlights CB Group’s innovative agricultural practices and its role in strengthening regional food production. The award was accepted by Alicia Bogues, Regional Development Manager at CB Group. Jamaica’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, welcomed the achievement, describing it as a significant moment for both the company and the country.

“I’m thrilled to see Caribbean Broilers Jamaica being recognised as CARICOM Farmer of the Year! This is a huge win for Jamaica and reflects their continuous hard work and commitment to the sector. It’s a win for their 1,300 employees and for Jamaica as a whole. It truly demonstrates how we can lead the way in overcoming the challenges in agriculture through modern and consistent farming practices. Together, we’re building a brighter, stronger future for agriculture in the Caribbean.”

Hosted in St Vincent and the Grenadines, CWA 2024 opened on Monday, 7 October, under the theme, “Climate-smart Agriculture for a Sustainable Future.” The annual event brings together agricultural leaders, policymakers, producers, and development partners from across the region to address pressing issues affecting food and nutrition security.

During the opening ceremony, Saboto S. Caesar, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour in St Vincent and the Grenadines, underscored the importance of climate resilience in protecting the future of Caribbean agriculture. In the keynote address, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves called for bold and collective regional action to confront the growing impact of climate change on the sector.

With a full programme of discussions, panels, and exhibitions, Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2024 is expected to help shape a more sustainable, resilient, and food-secure future for the Caribbean.