34 Farmers Received Over $3.1M in Agro-Incentive Grants to Boost Local Agriculture

 

September 14, 2024:-  Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago – Earlier today (Saturday 14th September, 2024), Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF), distributed over $3.1 million in Grants to thirty-four (34) recipients as part of Cycle 7 Batch 2 of the Agricultural Finance Support Programme (Agro-Incentive Grant). The distribution took place at the Ministry’s Head Office in Chaguanas, amidst the lively atmosphere of the Namdevco Farmers’ Market. The event not only highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing local agriculture but also celebrated the vibrant community of the market.

 

The Agro-Incentive Grant is a key element of the Ministry’s vision for a modern, competitive, and sustainable agricultural sector. It represents the Ministry’s dedication to promoting innovation, resilience, and sustainability within the agricultural community.

 

Minister Kazim Hosein highlighted the importance of the ceremony, stating, “Today’s grant distribution goes beyond financial support; it acknowledges the essential role each of you plays in our agricultural sector. By investing in your projects, we are underscoring our commitment to stimulating a more robust and resilient agricultural industry. Your dedication is pivotal for ensuring food security and economic stability in Trinidad and Tobago, and it shapes the future of our farming community.”

 

Minister Hosein further addressed the broader economic implications of the grant, remarking, “This is the true power of the Agro-Incentive Grant—not just to fund a project but to empower individuals. We are investing in people who will lead the way in innovation, sustainability, and in turn closer to the goal of achieving food and nutrition security.”

 

The 34 Grant recipients represent a diverse cross-section of the agricultural sector, including small-scale farmers and large agribusinesses. The funds will be used for various innovative projects such as state-of-the-art irrigation systems, hydroponic systems, solar panel installations, shade houses, and farm improvements to meet Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards, investments in new breeding stock for livestock, and advanced fishing equipment.

 

Additionally, Minister Hosein highlighted the recently launched Farmers’ Registration Portal, which has been developed to enhance accessibility to Ministry services. He encouraged interested individuals to apply for the farmers’ badge through this portal, noting that it will provide access to a variety of grants, incentives, and programmes offered by the Ministry. By obtaining the badge, farmers and fisherfolk can also benefit from the Agricultural Incentive Programme (AIP), which includes cash rebates and exemptions across 92 categories, supporting needs such as vehicle purchases, integrated pest management systems, and advancements in livestock, tree crops, and agro-processing. The portal aims to simplify the application process and ensure that all eligible individuals can fully utilize the available support.

 

In his closing remarks, Senator the Honourable Avinash Singh, Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, congratulated the farmers and hailed them as heroes in the agricultural community. He highlighted their vital role in helping feed the country and reassured them of the Ministry’s steadfast commitment to supporting their efforts. 

 

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