JCF’s Agricultural Protection Branch reaping results

10:15 pm, Tue January 6, 2026′
From Radio Jamaica News

10:15 pm, Tue January 6, 2026′
From Radio Jamaica News

By: ,JIS
The Agro-Investment Corporation (AIC) is advancing its mandate to boost local crop production with the introduction of 300 Wambugu apple seedlings to its agro parks.
The initiative, which involves collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, aims to support import substitution of apples and to diversify the earning potential of farmers.
Speaking with JIS News, Manager of Marketing and Communications at the AIC, Alecia Brown-Forbes, said that the project will begin at the agro-parks in St. Catherine and Clarendon.
A training session on Wambugu Apple Production and seedling distribution will be held on Thursday (October 16) at the Ebony Park Agro Park in Clarendon.
Mrs. Brown Forbes said that farmers have shown “tremendous interest” in the planting of the apples, noting that between 70 to 80 farmers will benefit from the initial distribution of seedlings.
“Those apples are being imported into Jamaica, so, the aim is to have as many farmers as possible planting the trees so that we can benefit locally from the apples. It’s really to stem the amount of imports that we have been doing for that type of apple. So, we definitely will try to make it our own and have as many farmers investing in it,” she said.
“We are… trying to see how best we can increase local production of it for consumption and also have the farmers benefit profitwise, and to grow their business as well,” she added.
The Wambugu Apple was developed by Kenyan farmer Peter Wambugu to grow in warmer, tropical climates. His daughter, Catherine, is in Jamica for the training session and distribution of seedlings to the agro park farmers.
The Wambugu apple is a crisp, juicy red variety similar to American apples.
The aim is for the crop to become a viable addition to local fruit production, contributing to agricultural diversification and farmer profitability.


By: , September 18, 2025
JIS
The inaugural Jamaica Agri-Business Investment Forum (JAIF) is set to spotlight investment opportunities across Jamaica’s agricultural sector, marked by the unveiling of the official ‘Deal Book for Agriculture’.
The three-day forum, running from September 17 to 19 under the theme ‘Sustainable Agri-Business: Global Reach, Local Impact’, has drawn more than 500 local and international participants, including investors, government agencies, financial institutions, and key stakeholders from the agribusiness community.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Agro-Investment Corporation (AIC), Vivion Scully, told attendees at the welcome reception, held on Wednesday (September 17) at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, that the forum will be more than just discussions.
“Over the next few days, we will see a lot of presentations, strategic partnerships being announced, and the unveiling of what we call the official deal book for agriculture,” he said.
Mr. Scully added that the initiatives outlined in the Deal Book reflect strategic collaboration across multiple sectors.
“These initiatives that will be unveiled represent meticulous planning and collaboration between public and private-sector partners, financial institutions, educational entities, and our international partners. Agro-Invest is proud to play a central role in facilitating these investment opportunities across Jamaica’s agriculture value chain,” he stated.
The CEO also emphasised the Forum’s role in supporting agribusiness entrepreneurs and strengthening Jamaica’s agribusiness ecosystem.
“Our mission is to support agribusiness entrepreneurs to foster more creativity in increasing production and driving growth, both for rural communities and the national economy,” Mr. Scully stated.
For her part, AIC Board Deputy Chair, Trisha Williams-Singh, described the Forum as a defining moment for Jamaica’s agribusiness sector.
“It is a platform where innovation meets investment, where strategic partnerships are formed and where the collective vision of stakeholders… is translated into tangible action,” she said.
Mrs. Williams-Singh highlighted the large turnout for the event as evidence of confidence in Jamaica’s agricultural potential.
“We are proud to have confirmed participation from over 500 attendees. Their insight and resources create a fertile environment for knowledge sharing and collaboration. Additionally, the presence of international delegations underscores the global confidence in Jamaica’s agricultural potential,” she added.
Mrs. Williams-Singh also acknowledged the support of key collaborators for the Forum, including the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF), Jamaica Bauxite Mining Limited, Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), as well as educational and technical agricultural entities.
She encouraged attendees to leverage the Forum as a catalyst for meaningful partnerships and sustained growth.
“The Board remains steadfast in providing guidance, oversight and a strategic direction to ensure that every initiative supports Jamaica’s vision for a resilient, innovative and globally competitive agricultural sector,” Mrs. Williams-Singh said.

The Jamaica Agri-Business Investment Forum (JAIF 25) is set to be the premier event for all stakeholders driving growth in our nation’s agricultural sector. This three-day forum, running from September 17-19 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, is designed to be the nexus where strategic partnerships, innovative ideas, and crucial capital converge. The forum’s theme, “Sustainable Agri-Business: Global Reach, Local Impact,” is a clear call to action for everyone invested in our country’s economic prosperity and food security.
Who Should Attend?
JAIF 25 is a carefully curated event that brings together all the key players in the agribusiness ecosystem. The forum is an essential platform for:
A Platform for Action
JAIF 25 goes beyond discussion, offering a practical pathway for growth. Attendees can expect to engage in one-on-one business matchmaking, participate in investment pitch sessions, and explore an exhibition hall filled with cutting-edge, climate-smart technologies. The forum also provides a critical opportunity to access financing and policy support that can help new and existing businesses thrive.
This event is a testament to the collective belief that by coming together, we can overcome challenges, build resilience, and secure a prosperous future for Jamaica’s agri-business. We invite you to be a part of this transformative movement.
To learn more and register, visit agribizjamaica.com.
The Agro-Investment Corporation concluded a highly successful three-day presence at the Denbigh Agricultural Show 2025, leveraging the powerful platform to generate significant excitement for the upcoming Jamaica Agri-Business Investment Forum (JAIF 25), scheduled for September 17-19, 2025.
Under the show’s theme, “A New Era: Overcoming Challenges, Building Resilience, Securing Our Future,” the Agro-Invest booth served as a central hub for dialogue, engagement, and a compelling sneak peek into the investment opportunities that will be showcased at JAIF 25.
Day one of the show saw a vibrant launch with a steady stream of farmers, investors, and entrepreneurs eager to learn about the new era of agri-business. Agro-Invest staff, in high spirits, engaged attendees in discussions on innovative farming practices, agro-processing opportunities, and the crucial role of investment in securing Jamaica’s food future.
Building on the momentum, Day two and three saw a heightened focus on the registration drive for JAIF 25. Attendees, buoyed by the prospect of prime investment opportunities, engaged in detailed conversations with Agro-Invest’s team. The interactive elements at the booth, including a popular 360-degree camera experience, generated widespread buzz and captured the celebratory mood of the weekend. The days highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships and the resilience of Jamaica’s agricultural sector, themes that will form the backbone of the upcoming forum.
The final day was a grand success, culminating in a significant number of registrations and inquiries for JAIF 25. The Agro-Invest team celebrated with proud farmers and partners, with their trophy-winning entries embodying the very resilience and success the forum aims to champion. The energy and enthusiasm from Denbigh affirmed the local and international interest in Jamaica’s agri-business sector.
“The conversations we had and the excitement we witnessed underscore the critical need for JAIF 25. We were able to show that a new era is not just a theme, but a tangible reality we are building together, and we are confident that the momentum from Denbigh will translate into a very successful and impactful forum in September.” said Najay Mclean, Marketing Officer at Agro-Invest
The Jamaica Agri-Business Investment Forum (JAIF 25) will be the nation’s premier platform for exploring real investment opportunities in farming, agro-processing, and land access.
To learn more and register for the Jamaica Agri-Business Investment Forum, visit the official website at Jamaica AGRI Business Investment Forum

Kingston, Jamaica – In a significant step toward advancing Jamaica’s fisheries sector, the Agro-Investment Corporation (Agro-Invest) and the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering sustainable development and enhancing investment opportunities within the industry. The signing ceremony took place on May 12, 2024, at Agro-Invest’s headquarters at 188 Spanish Town Road, Kingston, symbolizing a strategic partnership poised to strengthen aquaculture in Jamaica.
The agreement focuses on the development of a 300-acre Aquaculture Agro-Park at Amity Hall in St. Catherine, which Agro-Invest has committed to providing for the establishment of fisheries-related projects. This initiative is expected to drive growth, increase local fish production, and reduce Jamaica’s seafood imports.
Under the terms of the MoU, Agro-Invest will:
• Facilitate project development, including Public Investment Appraisal Branch submissions for the Amity Hall Aquaculture Project.
• Identify and assess investment opportunities within the fisheries sector.
• Connect potential investors with projects, offering financial analysis and market linkages.
• Facilitate training programs to improve the technical skills of fish farmers.
• Provide technical support, including monitoring and evaluation to ensure successful project implementation.
Meanwhile, the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) will:
• Fund the design consultancy for the preliminary design of the Amity Hall Aquaculture Project, estimated at JMD 1.2 million.
• Supply high-quality broodstock, fry, and seedstock to investors, subject to availability.
• Deploy field officers to provide technical guidance on pond setup, species selection, feed management, disease prevention, and capacity-building training sessions.
• Support the operational readiness of the National Tilapia Hatchery, currently under development at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine. The state-of-the-art facility will produce up to five million advanced tilapia fry annually, leveraging recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and solar energy integration to ensure climate resilience and biosecurity. The hatchery will be a critical resource for supplying quality fry to fish farmers across the island, ultimately improving productivity and reducing reliance on imports.
This MoU also establishes a Joint Committee comprising representatives from both Agro-Invest and the NFA to oversee the strategic direction, resource management, and administration of the Aquaculture Agro-Park. This committee will be responsible for determining leasing arrangements for fish farmers, ensuring fair and transparent access to the facility.
According to Vivion Scully, CEO of Agro-Invest, “This collaboration represents a pivotal step towards modernizing Jamaica’s aquaculture industry and expanding our agricultural value chain. We are excited to work alongside the National Fisheries Authority to attract both local and international investments that will create jobs, strengthen food security, and boost economic growth.”
Dr. Gavin Bellamy, CEO of the National Fisheries Authority, echoed these sentiments, noting that “The establishment of the Aquaculture Agro-Park is a game-changer for Jamaica’s fisheries sector. This partnership will help small-scale fish farmers thrive while enhancing sustainable practices that protect our marine resources.”
This strategic partnership supports the Government of Jamaica’s national priorities to advance sustainable agriculture and fisheries, with a focus on economic prosperity and strengthened food security. Both organizations are confident that their collaboration will deliver meaningful benefits to local communities and play a critical role in transforming Jamaica’s agricultural and aquaculture landscape.
About Agro-Investment Corporation:
The Agro-Investment Corporation is an agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining and is Jamaica’s lead agency responsible for agricultural investment promotion and facilitation. Agro-Invest aims to drive the development of a modern, efficient, and internationally competitive agricultural sector in Jamaica.
About National Fisheries Authority:
The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) is a regulatory and developmental body under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, responsible for managing, promoting, and supporting sustainable fisheries and aquaculture across Jamaica. The NFA works to enhance food security, protect marine ecosystems, and empower fishers and aquaculture stakeholders through training, research, and the provision of technical support.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Alecia Brown-Forbes
Manager, Marketing & Communications
Agro-Investment Corporation
Tel: (876) 878-0616
Agro-Investment Corporation is proud to be at the forefront of a historic moment in Jamaican agriculture with the official launch of the Parnassus Agro Park in Clarendon — a transformative initiative under the Southern Plains Agricultural Development Project (SPAD).
Unveiled on April 23, 2025, the Parnassus Agro Park represents more than just the repurposing of former sugarcane lands — it’s a bold leap toward building a climate-resilient, inclusive, and investor-ready agricultural future.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Dr. The Most Hon. Andrew Holness declared,
“We are planting the seeds of resilience and opportunity… This agro park represents a future where Jamaican farmers are empowered, communities are revitalized, and our country moves closer to a competitive and climate resilient agriculture sector.”
At Agro-Invest, our mandate aligns squarely with this national vision. As Jamaica’s premier agribusiness facilitation agency, we are focused on mobilizing investment, providing land access, and offering robust technical and market support to drive sustainable agriculture.

With over 700 acres of formerly sugarcane land now being transitioned to diversified agriculture, Parnassus Agro Park is primed to deliver on multiple fronts:
More than 400 acres allocated to small farmers, with a strong emphasis on women, youth, and persons with disabilities
Strategic irrigation development: helping push Jamaica’s irrigated farmland from 15% to 20% — a game-changer for productivity
Support from the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund and the Caribbean Development Bank, totaling an investment of £17.13 million across two locations: Parnassus (Clarendon) and Amity Hall (St. Catherine)

Through the Parnassus Agro Park, Agro-Invest is actively:
Leasing flat, irrigated lands (5–500 acres) to both smallholders and commercial investors
Facilitating investor support services, including:
Business planning
Land matching
Market linkage
On-farm technical assistance
We are proud to help bridge the gap between opportunity and action — ensuring all applicants, from startups to established agribusinesses, have the tools to succeed.
With climate resilience and national food security at the center of Jamaica’s agricultural policy, Agro-Invest invites local and international investors to be part of this legacy-defining opportunity.
Apply now for land at the Parnassus Agro Park and partner with us to cultivate growth — for your business, for communities, and for Jamaica.
📩 Contact Us:
📍 AMC Complex, 188 Spanish Town Road, Kingston 11
📞 +1 (876) 764-8071 | ✉️ info@agroinvest.gov.jm
🔗 www.agroinvest.gov.jm

From JIS:
The Agro-Investment Corporation in partnership with the Coconut Industry Board on Friday (January 10), presented the Amity Hall Agro Park coconut farmers group with critical inputs valued at $4 million.
Approximately 20 farmers received seedlings, fertilizers, and spray pans during a presentation ceremony held at the Amity Hall Agro Park in St. Catherine, as part of the Hurricane Beryl Relief Programme, under the Alliances for Coconut Industry Development for the Caribbean Phase II.
The initiative aims to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of small-scale farmers, ensuring better integration into local, regional, and global markets.
The inputs will support the recovery and growth of their coconut farming operations.
Chief Executive Officer of the Coconut Industry Board, Shaun Cameron told JIS News that under the programme, approximately 15 coconut farmer groups will be assisted with materials and other inputs over the next three months.
This, he said, is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the sustainability of the industry, which lost 3,000 trees during the passage of Hurricane Beryl in July 2024.
“As a registered coconut farmer, you benefit from free fertilizers and other essentials [as well as] seedlings, up to a five-year period. The Coconut Board spends on average $150 million per year to support our registered coconut farmers,” Mr. Cameron said.
Meanwhile, Plant Pathologist for the Coconut Industry Board, Dr. Wayne Myrie said the intention is to expand the initiative to assist farmer groups across the island.
“This is a programme that we hope to expand, bearing in mind that we are giving seedlings to other farmers as well,” he said.
Fifteen coconut farmers from Bog Walk in Parish, also received inputs under the programme.
From- The Gleaner:
The Agro-Investment Corporation (Agro-Invest) says significant progress has been made in its mission to strengthen the agricultural sector and address the challenges posed by climate change.
Through a series of strategic partnerships and initiatives, the corporation indicated that it has launched a comprehensive greenhouse rehabilitation project across its agro parks and properties in St Catherine, Clarendon, and Manchester.
“These initiatives are integral to Agro-Invest’s broader commitment to strengthening food security, expanding market access, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices,” the corporation added.
Among the initiatives is the Ginger Greenhouse Rehabilitation at Ebony Agro Park in Clarendon, in partnership with JA Spices.
The project, launched in 2023, is aimed at revitalising Jamaica’s spice industry. It focuses on cultivating clean, rhizome-free ginger using Single-Bud technology.
“This initiative is part of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food for Progress Jamaica Spices Project, which seeks to modernise and strengthen the spice industry through the production of high-quality planting materials for local consumption, export, and value-added products,” Agro-Invest said.
Over the past year, three greenhouses have been rehabilitated: the first by Agro-Invest and the second and third by the JA Spices Project. The project has already seen two successful harvests of clean seedling ginger, which have been distributed to farms across the Ebony Agro Park. The third planting cycle is currently under way, completing the expansion of the third greenhouse.
The initiative is intended to benefit more than 7,500 agricultural stakeholders, including women, youth, and marginalised groups, by creating new economic opportunities and ensuring a sustainable spice sector. In collaboration with ACDI/VOCA, the project is anticipated to strengthen resilience and promote equitable growth.
Another collaboration, this time with World University Service of Canada (WUSC), is the Sweet Potato Planting Material Nursery at Amity Hall Agro Park in St Catherine.
Through a newly signed memorandum of understanding, the two organisations are working together to develop this nursery at the Amity Hall Agro Park in St Catherine. The nursery will focus on producing virus-resistant planting materials, addressing pest and disease pressures that have historically hampered productivity.
Aligned with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining’s New F.A.C.E. of Food initiative — which aims to transform the agri-food system with a focus on food security, agro-processing, climate resilience and export expansion – this collaboration also includes research into biological controls for pest management. WUSC will support the importation of 10 sweet potato varieties from the International Potato Centre in Peru, which will be tested for productivity and pest resistance. The greenhouse renovation is on track for completion by January 2025, laying the groundwork for transformative impacts on sweet potato farming.
Agro-Invest has also commenced rehabilitation of a 12,000-square-foot greenhouse in Coleyville, Manchester. This project aims to attract public-private partnership investors for the cultivation of high-demand vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes and bell peppers, catering to the local grocery channel and expanding hotel industry.
The facility will feature modern technologies, including hydroponics and water-efficient systems, to optimise vegetable production, while minimising environmental impact. By providing a secure and controlled environment, this greenhouse should ensure year-round production, improved crop quality, and protection from adverse weather conditions. It aligns with the growing demand for locally produced vegetables, contributing to the agricultural value chain and bolstering food security.
DRIVING AGRICULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY
Agro-Invest said these greenhouse rehabilitation projects reflect its unwavering dedication to fostering sustainable agricultural practices, improving food security, and enhancing market access for local farmers. In addition, the corporation noted that through partnerships with JA Spices, ACDI/VOCA, WUSC, and other agricultural investors, it is working to create long-term value for Jamaican farmers and strengthen local food production.
“We are excited about advancing climate-smart agriculture through our greenhouse rehabilitation initiatives,” said Vivion Scully, CEO of Agro-Invest. “These projects not only help mitigate the effects of climate change, but also ensure that Jamaican farmers are equipped with the tools and resources they need to thrive. As we continue to collaborate with our valued partners, we are keen on attracting new investments in agriculture to ensure food security, agricultural sustainability, and the overall growth of the sector.”

Kingston, Jamaica — The Jamaica Bauxite Mining Limited (JBM) and Agro-Investment Corporation (Agro-Invest) have entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive agricultural development and investment in Jamaica by converting former bauxite mining lands into innovative agricultural hub. This collaboration aligns with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining’s goals of advancing sustainable agribusiness and climate resilience.
Under the MoU, that was executed on November 7, 2024, the entities have agreed that on JBM’s former bauxite lands in Lydford, St. Ann, a designated 670 acres will be used to facilitate the development of a transformational and technologically advanced Agro Park.
The Agro-Park will serve as a model for sustainable agribusiness, employing climate-smart practices and offering lease opportunities for investors and for small and medium-sized farmers through the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA). JBM already has existing farmers utilizing some of these lands. The initial phase of the plan seeks to regularise these farmers, ensuring support is given to enhance their productivity. This regularization step will complement the transition into the progressive Agro-Park. Farmers within the Agro-Park will benefit from access to irrigation systems, cold storage facilities, vertical farming or greenhouses, and transportation networks. These resources will enable them to grow high-quality crops and reduce post-harvest losses, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh produce for both the domestic and international markets.
Agro-Invest will lead the design and operational model, coordinate with stakeholders, and offer technical expertise in areas like agronomy, land management, and resource planning. Both entities aim to attract investments that will support infrastructure, operations, and growth in Jamaica’s agricultural sector, enhancing production efficiency, crop diversification, and enhance supply chains.
Key Objectives of the MoU:
• Utilize former bauxite land for productive agricultural purposes
• Establish a framework to promote investment in agriculture and agribusiness
• Facilitate market linkages between farmers and high-demand sectors, such as expanding tourism sector
• Support sustainable development through climate-smart technologies and environmentally friendly practices
The MoU further outlines the establishment of a Project Management Committee (PMC) to oversee the collaboration and ensure the successful execution of shared goals of the MoU.
Beyond farming, the AgroPark will also support youth engagement and community empowerment. Both entities believe it is essential to attract the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs, and the AgroPark will offer training programmes, internships, and mentorship opportunities. By engaging young people, we aim to inspire innovation and ensure the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.
“This partnership reflects Agro-Invest’s commitment to transforming underutilized lands into productive agricultural assets that benefit both the economy and the environment,” said Vivion Scully, CEO of Agro-Investment Corporation. “Together with JBM, we aim to establish a sustainable model that empowers local farmers and contributes to Jamaica’s food security and economic growth.”
Donna Marie Howe, Managing Director of JBM, added, “Through land reclamation efforts, we restore the fertility and productivity, giving new life into productive farmlands. This process rejuvenates the environment and unlocks new economic opportunities for farmers and their community agricultural hubs. Our collaboration with Agro-Invest will drive meaningful change, it will engender a platform for agro-processing and value-added production. By supporting farmers in converting raw produce into finished products, we help them capture greater value and expand into new markets. This shift from primary production to value-added activities will play a key role in strengthening Jamaica’s agricultural exports and increasing profitability for local small and medium farmers to thrive in a modern agricultural landscape. These collaborations will create an interconnected network that supports the entire agricultural value chain”.
JBM’s commitment to agriculture extends beyond the Agro-Park. We will continue working with farmers, communities, and policymakers to develop initiatives that promote sustainable practices, economic growth, and social well-being. Through initiatives like this MoU, JBM and Agro-Invest, will continue to be a contributor and beacon for national development. Together, we will cultivate a future where agriculture grows alongside other sectors, ensuring prosperity and sustainability for all.
For further inquiries, please contact: ALECIA BROWN-FORBES, Manager, Marketing & Communications, Agro-Investment Corporation. Tel: (876) 878-0616; Email: abrown-forbes@agroinvest.gov.jm OR KEISHA SCHOOLER, Manager, Commercial Properties, Jamaica Bauxite Mining Limited (JBM). Tel: (876) 337-2387; Email: keisha.schooler@jbm.gov.jm