Development must also respect lived realities, traditions

THE EDITOR, Madam:

After carefully reviewing the opinions in The Gleaner’s editorial published on June 8, 2026, I am in strong agreement with its recommendations on the steps needed to advance Jamaica’s agricultural sector, even in these challenging times.

However, a few early points require further clarification, as they do not fully align with present realities. I have long held that the current draft policy does not clearly articulate a grounded agricultural philosophy aligned with a national development plan. I therefore welcome the article’s observation that the Grow Forward framework is largely consistent with Vision 2030’s strategic logic.

As noted, the global environment is now harsher, more unstable, and technologically disruptive. 

Food security is no longer merely a social concern; it is a matter of national sovereignty and resilience. Vision 2030 recognised that agriculture should not be treated solely as a rural social sector—a point underscored today by the decline of many rural communities.

The experience following Hurricane Melissa illustrates this vividly. Small farmers demonstrated

remarkable resilience, returning to production even before rebuilding their homes. Within months, some crops were in oversupply. Their efforts preserved rural life and highlighted what is possible with proper support.

Agriculture remains central to rural identity and national stability. Small farmers, often dismissed as subsistence producers, are undervalued despite their significant contribution to household welfare and food security.

Modernisation, climate-smart practices, and technology are necessary, but development must also respect lived realities and traditions. Rural small holdings, though often outside formal markets, are indispensable and must be supported through targeted incentives and community programmes.

Initiatives such as “Eat What We Grow” are commendable, but more is needed. Expanded school garden programmes, agricultural spaces in community planning, and greater access to inputs could strengthen the sector.

The draft policy should go further in recognising and supporting this critical foundation of national resilience.

OSMOND DECARISH