RADA women leading the agriculture drive

In Jamaica’s agricultural sector, often imagined purely through the image of farmers in the field, there exists a cadre of women whose work, though less visible, is just as essential. They are the planners, analysts, coordinators and strategists who support farming communities, strengthen food systems and help keep the sector resilient in times of crisis.

Within the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), women in corporate and technical roles are shaping the direction of agricultural development across the island. Their work has taken on renewed significance following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, as teams were mobilised to conduct islandwide damage assessments, coordinate the distribution of fertiliser and seeds, and support recovery initiatives to help farmers rebuild their livelihoods.

This International Women’s Day, observed tomorrow, March 8, RADA celebrates the women who help cultivate more than crops. They cultivate opportunity, resilience and progress within Jamaica’s agricultural landscape.

Tassia Francis: Acting marketing officer, RADA Clarendon

For Tassia Francis, her relationship with RADA began through an internship in 2012 at the Clarendon office, where she worked directly with farmers and gained first-hand insight into extension services. The experience strengthened her interest in contributing to agricultural development.

She later joined the Bodles Research Station as a research assistant, gaining technical and scientific skills. But her desire to work closely with farmers drew her back to RADA Clarendon, where she served as an agricultural assistant before being promoted to being an extension officer. She now performs the duties of acting marketing officer.

Her responsibilities include conducting training for farmers and stakeholders, focusing on post-harvest handling, strengthening marketing linkages between farmers and buyers, and collecting weekly farmgate prices to support market intelligence.

Reflecting on her journey, Francis describes the experience as both challenging and fulfilling.

“Females are now more empowered and tapping into spaces that were once limited. This position has strengthened my leadership skills, confidence, and my ability to interact with persons at different levels, including agro-processors and farmers,” she said.

For her, International Women’s Day is a reminder of potential.

“It tells me that I am stronger than I think, and I can achieve anything that I put my mind to.”

Camille Ambersely: Parish social service home economics officer

For Camille Ambersely, empowering rural families is the core of her work. As parish social service home economics officer, she provides practical training that supports food security, strengthens livelihoods and encourages sustainable agricultural practices.

Working through various extension methods, she helps farm families develop income-generating projects designed to close income gaps and improve economic stability.

The most rewarding part of her work, she said, is seeing farmers succeed.

“I love to see my farmers succeed after exposing them to theoretical and practical training. Seeing them secure consistent contractual agreements with buyers and create income for themselves and their families is the biggest reward,” she said.

Ambersely recognises that, historically, women in agriculture have faced marginalisation, but their contributions remain essential to food security.

“Women are tearing down systematic barriers that once existed and are contributing positively to food security,” she said.

For her, International Women’s Day is both celebration and recognition.

“It is a powerful day that celebrates how far women have come in the agricultural sector. It amplifies our voices and highlights our contributions. We are no longer just nurturers; we are entrepreneurs and business leaders.”

Jasmine Hyde: Zonal director, East Zone

For Jasmine Hyde, agriculture is more than a profession; it’s an inheritance. Growing up, she accompanied her father to the family farm, where they cultivated cocoa, cabbage and a variety of vegetables and ground provisions. Those early experiences nurtured her passion for farming and shaped her professional path.

Now zonal director for RADA’s East Zone, Hyde provides strategic and operational leadership for seven parishes: St Andrew, St Thomas, Portland, St Mary, St Ann, Clarendon and St Catherine. Her work involves overseeing projects, managing operations and supporting extension teams across the region.

Despite the demands of her portfolio, she finds fulfilment in watching farmers progress through technical guidance.

“It is inspiring to meet a farmer that you provided technical information to and see how well they have progressed,” she said.

Like many women in the sector, Hyde has had to navigate entrenched gender expectations.

“I had to work twice as hard as my male counterparts in the field. However, you have to remain confident and fierce. I love the challenge and continue to give it my best,” she said.

For her, International Women’s Day represents recognition and motivation.

“It is about honouring women at all levels and letting other women know that they can achieve their goals once they remain committed and work hard.”