Forbes magazine has highlighted the implementation and benefits of Jamaica’s backyard farming movement, an activity that was actively promoted by the government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the negative economic impacts it brought to individual income and the national economy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jamaicans addressed problems of reduced income and limitations on the freedom of movement by starting backyard farms as a way to relieve stress and attain food security. In response, the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) headed by Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, distributed 2,500 backyard farming kits throughout the country in February of 2021. The kits provided various seeds, including okra, tomato, peas, beans, carrot, onion, cabbage, callaloo, pepper, and scallion, along with a seedling tray, mix, and fertilizer to encourage the growing backyard farming movement. The backyard farming movement in Jamaica has improved its food security by promoting the engagement of its citizens in growing food for their own consumption.

Source: Forbes October 13, 2022 18:03 UTC