HOLLAND PROPERTY (ST. ELIZABETH)
AGRO INVESTMENT CORPORATION ASSUMES FULL MANAGEMENT OF THE HOLLAND PROPERTY (ST. ELIZABETH)
The Holland property was transferred under the management of the Agro-Investment Corporation (AIC) which has the mandate to package, promote and facilitate investment opportunities in Agriculture. This facilitation of investment is being done in collaboration with other stakeholders and investors by creating a climate hospitable to investment. In the process, the Management is focusing on funds mobilization, building partnerships and developing relationships with the private sector through the leveraging of government owned assets.
PLANS TO DEVELOP HOLLAND INTO AN AGRO-ECONOMIC ZONE
The property which is approximately 935.52 hectares (2400 acres) will be developed into an Agro-Economic Zone; which is the central point for agri-business development in the parish. This Agro-Economic Zone will promote economies of scale (large scale production) and economies of scope (diversification of production) at each point along the value chain. The Agro-Economic Zone will create an environment where advanced technologies will be integrated into the existing systems, to boost production and productivity.
VALUE CHAIN EXPANSION
The value chain will be developed to include the following:
- Continuous research and development
- Inputs of the highest quality
- Good agricultural practices for crop production
- Efficient harvesting techniques
- Robust storage facilities (cold and dry)
- Efficient and effective transportation services
- Innovative and scientific agro-processing techniques
- Sustainable waste management practices
- Effective and innovative marketing strategies
BENEFITS OF THE HOLLAND PROPERTY AS AN AGRO ECONOMIC ZONE
The Agro-Economic Zone (AEZ) will attract and retain profitable investors while providing support services that will make them competitive both locally and internationally. All the activities conducted in the zone will be geared towards food security, job creation, rural development, and economic growth. In addition, there will be introduction of climate smart agriculture and technologies, and a fully integrated value chain system which will potentially lead to overall sustainable national development of the country.
INVESTMENT IN THE PIPELINE FOR HOLLAND
There are approximately 230 investors/farmers interviewed and placed on the property and with the support of the Agro Invest Corporation many of these farmers have already commenced production or preparing for production.
The 2400 acre zone will comprise farms, as well as packaging and processing facilities. The project is expected to provide jobs for over 900 persons.
There is a potential investor that has expressed an interest in setting up a complex to engage in full grading, packaging, processing and marketing. Agro Invest is now in the process of ensuring the property has proper fencing and security in place. There will be complete monitoring of the property.