Minister of Home Affairs the Hon. Jerome Roberts says Government is very pleased with the level of agricultural activity being undertaken by the Rastafarian community in the Valley.
The Minister who has responsibility for Agriculture was this afternoon given a tour of the facility by two of its custodians, Ras B and Ras Elijah. The Minister was accompanied on the tour by Principal Assistant Secretaries Kenneth Hodge and Ensor Gumbs and Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Patrick Vanterpool.
Minister Roberts said he was both surprised and pleased with the level of crop production being undertaken on the site which includes seasoning peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, yams and other seasonal vegetables. He was also quite impressed with the fact that there was extensive cultivation of Bamboo bordering the property as well as fruit and citrus trees including the avocado, paw paw, lime, lemon and Cherry among others. Of significant note was the care and attention paid to using natural fertilizers including the use wild mimosa growing on the property, sea moss and other shrubs as compost.
‘We believe that this particular piece of property, which continues to be developed will one day become a showpiece of agricultural innovation and serve as a leading source of supply for the local market. This augurs well for the catch phrase – grow local – eat local, which formed part of the theme for the local agricultural exhibition’ the Agriculture Minister remarked.
He commended Ras Elijah and Ras B and the other members of the Rastafarian community for their efforts towards creating a sustainable food source and supply and pledged Government’s continued support where ever possible in the endeavor. He also encouraged the custodians to facilitate more of these kinds of visits by residents and the business community to get a deeper appreciation of the benefits to be derived both to the economy and healthy living from agricultural production.
The Minister also noted that there is active consideration being given to establishing a food court in the area which will complement the agricultural production being undertaken.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
