Amity Hall Agro Park Farmer Named National Champion Farmer at Denbigh 72

Jeyadoss Prabahar, a farmer at Amity Hall Agro Park, has been named National Champion Farmer at this year’s Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show, one of the most prestigious honours in Jamaican agriculture.

The National Champion Farmer Competition, a longstanding highlight of the Denbigh Show, recognises excellence in farm management based on criteria including farm layout, quality of record keeping, efficiency, innovation, capital management, and marketing. Competitors are judged first at the parish level, with category winners advancing to the national title.

Mr. Prabahar’s win is a proud moment for the entire Amity Hall Agro Park community and a reflection of the dedication and skill driving Jamaica’s agricultural sector forward. As an Agro Park under Agro-Invest’s portfolio, Amity Hall continues to demonstrate what’s possible when strategic land development, investment, and farmer commitment come together.

Congratulations to Mr. Prabahar on this well-deserved recognition.

Agro-Invest Showcases the Future of Jamaican Agribusiness at Denbigh 72 While Celebrating Investor Success

May Pen, Clarendon – The Agro-Investment Corporation (Agro-Invest) showcased the strength, innovation and investment potential of Jamaica’s agricultural sector at the 72nd Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show through its Future of Jamaican Agribusiness Pavilion, while celebrating the achievements of farmers and investors who continue to drive growth within the sector.

The Pavilion highlighted Agro-Invest’s role in advancing a modern, technology-driven and commercially focused agricultural industry. Visitors explored investment opportunities across Agro-Invest’s Agro Parks and Production Zones and engaged with innovative solutions from Blueprint Farms, Skycrop Solutions, Walkerswood, Spur Tree Spices, Jamaican Teas and Believe Farms, showcasing advancements in aeroponics, aquaponics, drone technology, smart irrigation and value-added production.

A major highlight of Agro-Invest’s participation was the Lease Handover Ceremony for the Amity Hall/Bridgepen Southern Plains Agricultural Development (SPAD) Project which took place on August 1, 2026, at the Agro-Invest pavilion marking another significant milestone in the Government of Jamaica’s efforts to place agricultural lands into productive use and expand opportunities for agricultural investment.

The Amity Hall/Bridgepen Agro Park represents a strategic investment in Jamaica’s agricultural transformation, with approximately 1,140 acres of underutilised government-owned lands being developed into resilient, commercially oriented farming hubs to increase production, strengthen food security, create employment and stimulate economic growth.

As part of the first phase of the project, 22 approved investors were scheduled to receive their agricultural leases, representing a significant step in their transition into active commercial production. To date, 56 investors have been approved under the initiative, reflecting a commitment to expanding participation in agriculture through opportunities for youth, women and persons with disabilities, including 18 youth, 12 women and one person with a disability within the approved investor cohort.

This initial phase activates 123.5 acres for the production of priority crops, including sweet pepper, hot pepper, sweet potato, pumpkin, tomato, plantain, lettuce and cucumber. The development is expected to generate approximately J$98.5 million in agricultural investment and create an estimated 370 jobs during the first crop cycle. Investors will also benefit from Agro-Invest’s lease management, agronomic and business development support services to assist with the successful establishment and growth of their enterprises.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, the Honourable Floyd Green, said the SPAD initiative represents an important step in unlocking the productive potential of Jamaica’s agricultural lands.

“The development of the Amity Hall/Bridgepen Agro Park demonstrates our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Jamaicans to invest in agriculture and build sustainable enterprises. By making more agricultural lands available, supporting farmers and attracting new investment, we are strengthening food security, creating jobs and positioning agriculture as a key driver of economic growth,” Minister Green said.

Denbigh 72 also provided an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Agro-Invest investors, demonstrating the impact of strategic agricultural investment and support.

Jeyadoss Prabahar, affectionately known as “Pablo,” was crowned National Champion Farmer at Denbigh 72, receiving the award from Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness and Minister Green. An investor at the Amity Hall Agro Park since 2008, Mr. Prabahar operates a 40-acre commercial farm producing more than 40 varieties of crops using modern technologies, including drone applications, drip irrigation and mechanised mulching. His enterprise supplies more than 100 outlets across Jamaica and provides employment for over 15 full-time workers.

Minard Estate, managed by Agro-Invest, delivered an outstanding performance at Denbigh 72 under the leadership of Farm Manager Emelio Archer, earning the titles of Champion Cattle Exhibitor and Champion Exhibitor (Jamaica Black). The estate also captured the prestigious awards for Supreme Champion Senior Beef Bull and Supreme Champion Beef Female, showcasing the exceptional quality of livestock production and farm management within Agro-Invest’s managed agricultural portfolio. The achievement reflects the continued commitment to excellence, productivity and innovation that drives the Corporation’s efforts to strengthen Jamaica’s agricultural sector and support world-class farming operations.

Chief Executive Officer Vivion Scully said the achievements celebrated at Denbigh 72 demonstrate the tremendous potential of Jamaica’s agricultural sector when supported by innovation, investment and strategic partnerships.

“Denbigh 72 reaffirmed that Jamaica’s agricultural future is bright. Through strategic investments, modern technologies and strong partnerships, Agro-Invest continues to create opportunities that empower farmers, attract investment and strengthen national food security. The achievements celebrated this year demonstrate what is possible when vision, innovation and determination come together.”

As Agro-Invest looks beyond Denbigh 72, the Corporation remains committed to expanding investment opportunities, accelerating agricultural development and supporting a new generation of commercially successful farmers who will continue to drive growth within Jamaica’s agricultural sector.

About Agro-Investment Corporation

The Agro-Investment Corporation (Agro-Invest) is Jamaica’s premier investment promotion agency for the agriculture sector. Operating under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Agro-Invest is mandated to drive investment, innovation and commercialisation in the agribusiness sector. Through the management of Agro Parks, Production Zones and strategic partnerships, Agro-Invest plays a pivotal role in transforming Jamaica’s agriculture into a globally competitive, value-added industry.

300 Wambugu Apple Seedlings to Be Introduced to Agro Parks

By: Twila Wheelan,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.

Inaugural Agri-Business Forum Targeting Growth and Global Investment Opportunities

By: Serena Grant, 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.

Agro-Invest Drives Momentum for Jamaica Agri-Business Investment Forum (JAIF 25) at Denbigh

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

Agro-Investment Corporation and National Fisheries Authority Sign MoU to Boost Jamaica’s Fisheries Sector

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

Parnassus Agro Park Launches: A New Era for Jamaica’s Agricultural Investment

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.

A National Vision, An Agro-Invest Mission

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.

Why Parnassus Matters

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