Enhancement of the Efficiency of the Production-Distribution Supply Chain of Fruit and Vegetable Sector in Saint Lucia

(7-CROPS PROJECT)

PHASE 2 OVERVIEW

This project is a continuation of the first phase which lasted three years The second term of the project is for five (5) a year period commencing from 1^st January 2022 to 31^st December 2026. The project seeks to;

To enhance diversification of the agricultural sector through increased production of targeted crops which includes sour sop, sugar apple, pumpkin, squash, corn, eggplant, dragon fruit, cabbage, zucchini, and carrot.

The project seeks to meet its projected outcomes through, the establishment of demonstration plots, conducting irrigation need assessment; for subsequent irrigation assistance to farmers, compost training, small-scale agriculture machinery, hosting input sales, training in agro-processing, assisting St. Lucia Marketing Board to develop internal HACCP standard.

PROJECT LOCATION: Island-wide with some inclination toward agricultural belts and farming communities.

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PHASE 1 OVERVIEW :

1. To reduce the food import of the seven selected crops by 30% over a 3-year period
2. To enhance diversification of the agricultural sector through increased production of targeted crops.
3. Reduce the level of drudgery in farming activities thereby making farm work more attractive to farmers young and old alike.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

The project seeks to create an enabling environment for the increased production of selected agricultural commodities in order to help in the reduction of Saint Lucia’s food import bill. Saint Lucia’s importation of agricultural produce was approximately EC $27 million in 2016. The project focuses on the increase in the domestic supply of seven crops; cabbage, tomato, lettuce, sweet pepper, watermelon, cantaloupe/honeydew, and pineapple. Reduce Saint Lucia’s reliance on external sources for the supply of its domestic market demands for agricultural produce. Expand the area under cultivation where land is available thereby increasing income & food security. Reduce Saint Lucia’s vulnerability to internal and external food insecurity threats. Saint Lucia is expected to be 100% self-sufficient in the production of tomato, pineapple, sweet pepper, and watermelon. Decrease the food import bill and ensure increased production of high-quality nutritionally rich foods. The anticipated impact of this initiative will be an Increased reliance on domestic agricultural produce for the supply of adequate, safe and nutritious food, to satisfy the national demand for food. consistent with the government’s policy priorities. To foster economic growth through increased production and productivity of agricultural commodities. Create employment opportunities, particularly for vulnerable groups in Rural Communities leading to a reduction in poverty and crime.