Jamaica is currently experiencing a shortage of key food staples, including plantain and bananas, as a result of the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl. Floyd Green, the country's Agriculture Minister, reported that a preliminary assessment revealed considerable damage to various crops such as vegetables.
The hurricane's force led to the destruction of approximately 85% of banana and plantain crops in Portland and St Mary, as observed by Green during a visit to farms in St Elizabeth. This has resulted in an estimated loss exceeding $6.4 million in food crops alone. Additionally, the hurricane adversely affected the fishing and livestock sectors, causing widespread distress among farmers.
In response to the damage, yam farmers in southern Trelawny have sought assistance, highlighting the extensive harm to their livelihoods. Green emphasized the resilience of the farming community and the ministry's commitment to support recovery efforts. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has underscored the importance of enhancing resilience and sustainability in the face of an active and intense hurricane season, advocating for the reconstruction of infrastructure and homes to withstand future storms through the adherence to improved building codes and investment in robust infrastructure.
Source: voice-online.co.uk