Government of Jamaica
“The revitalisation of the freshwater fish farming sub-project, implemented by the National Fisheries Authority through the CIF PPCR Project, represents progress, investment in our future and our steadfast commitment to sustainable growth in agriculture in Jamaica.”
NFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Gavin Bellamy
The Full Story
The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has taken a significant step towards revitalising Jamaica’s freshwater fish farming sector with the presentation of new equipment and rehabilitated ponds to Ebony Park HEART Academy in Clarendon.
This forms part of the Climate Investment Fund (CIF) Pilot Programme for Climate Resilience (PPCR) Project and represents a crucial investment in the future of Jamaica’s aquaculture.
The initiative also marks the first step in the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining and HEART/NSTA Trust, aimed at strengthening capacity in agriculture and the fisheries sector.
Speaking during the recent presentation ceremony at the academy, NFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Gavin Bellamy, emphasised the importance of the provisions in promoting sustainable development and innovation within the industry.
“The revitalisation of the freshwater fish farming sub-project, implemented by the National Fisheries Authority through the CIF PPCR Project, represents progress, investment in our future and our steadfast commitment to sustainable growth in agriculture in Jamaica,” Dr. Bellamy stated.
He pointed out that the NFA’s collaboration with the Ebony Park Academy underscores the Authority’s commitment to building capacity and equipping sector stakeholders.
“At the NFA, we firmly believe that the future of our fishing industry depends on capacity-building, innovation and sustainable development. That is why we are pleased to collaborate with Ebony Park, an institution dedicated to training, excellence and equipping our next generation of fish farmers,” the CEO added.
The resources provided will not only enhance the Ebony Park Academy’s fish-production capacity but also support small farmers in Clarendon and beyond.
“Freshwater fish farming has the potential to transform communities, particularly those in Clarendon. So, through this initiative, we aim to strengthen partnerships, share knowledge and reduce community vulnerability to climate-related challenges,” Dr. Bellamy stated.
The CEO noted that the impact of this investment “extends far beyond [the presentation] ceremony”.
“It boosts food security, creates employment opportunities and contributes to economic growth that aligns with the NFA’s and the Ministry’s strategic objectives,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bellamy expressed gratitude to the key stakeholder partners who were pivotal in making the project a reality.
“I must extend my sincere appreciation to the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining [Hon. Floyd Green] and the Government of Jamaica for their commitment to aquaculture, the World Bank for their expertise in administration and project management and the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) for their leadership and invaluable contributions,” he remarked.
Dr. Bellamy encouraged students at Ebony Park Academy and fish farmers to seize the opportunities presented by this investment, adding “use them wisely, and strive for excellence in this field”.
The NFA remains committed to empowering fish farmers, revitalising the industry, and ensuring a sustainable future for aquaculture in Jamaica.