Largest-Ever Cheque Distribution for Agriculture Ministry

 

February 8, 2025:- The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, continues to make historic investments in the agricultural sector, with the largest-ever disbursement under the Agricultural Finance Support Programme (Agro-Incentive Grant). At the Cycle 8 Cheque Distribution Ceremony on February 7, 2025, Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries announced that this cycle allocated $11.2 million to 116 farmers, fisherfolk, and agro-entrepreneurs.

Since the programme’s launch in 2019, the government has provided approximately $42 million in grant funding to 435 recipients, supporting crop and livestock farmers, hydroponic and shade-house producers, agro-processors, and those in fisheries and forestry.

Delivering the feature address, the Honourable Stuart Young, S.C., Minister of Energy and Energy Industries and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, highlighted the role of technology in modernizing agriculture, emphasizing that innovation and efficiency will be key to the future of food security.

Also speaking at the event was the Honourable Foster Cummings, Minister of Youth Development and National Service, who reaffirmed his Ministry’s collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries in empowering young people in agriculture. Through initiatives such as shade-house farming, aquaculture, and homestead programmes, young farmers are being equipped with the skills and resources to succeed.

Minister Hosein emphasized that the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries’ role extends beyond financial support, calling for increased engagement from Extension Officers to ensure that agricultural workers receive the technical expertise and guidance needed to thrive.

With over $42 million invested through the Agricultural Finance Support Programme, the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries remains committed to ensuring a modernized and expanding agricultural sector, strengthening food security and economic stability in Trinidad and Tobago.

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