From Farm To Kitchen: UWI Conference Targets Sustainable Agriculture #TTTLiveOnline

Speaking at the International Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Tourism Conference on Tuesday, Dean of the Faculty of Food and Agriculture, Professor Mark Wuddivira, noted that the central mission of the UWI’s initiative is to reduce the region’s overall food import bill, estimated at some US$7 billion, by 25%.

Building on the initiative’s aim, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Ravi Ratiram noted that while the local agricultural sector remains severely underserved, the Ministry is committed to promoting agricultural resilience through targeted strategies and sustainable practices that, in turn, would help boost the local tourism sector.

“By strengthening supply chains between farmers, fishermen, processors, chefs and tourism enterprises, we can ensure that the food served to visitors reflects the authentic agricultural heritage of our nation. Simply put, when agriculture flourishes, tourism becomes richer, communities become stronger, and economies become more resilient.”

Additionally, Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism Satyakama Maharaj noted that the government, through the Ministry, and in collaboration with key stakeholders, has prioritised import substitution while promoting domestic production and agro‑processing, which has significantly influenced national policy.

“Initiatives such as our Buy Local, Build Trinbago campaign – how many people heard about it? Well, it’s going to be more widespread. Strategic interventions designed to increase local production, support local farmers, local manufacturers, local service providers, and reduce the country’s exposure to external disruptions.”