Gov Boost – By Jeressa Jeremy
Gov Boost Farming New
The Ministry of Agriculture is implementing a dual-track approach to modernize the local farming industry with the arrival of heavy-duty machinery alongside the official opening of a high-tech laboratory in Bethesda.
Director of Communications Maurice Merchant confirmed that Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith was at the St John’s Deep Water Harbour Wednesday to facilitate the release of specialized equipment destined for field operations.
The shipment is expected to immediately assist farmers with land clearing and the maintenance of essential water catchments and dams.
Parallel to the infrastructure boost, the government is set to commission the Bethesda tissue culture laboratory this coming week.
The facility represents a significant shift toward science-based farming, focusing on the production of “disease-free, high-quality plant material”.
Merchant noted that the Bethesda facility is a pillar of the national food security strategy.
“The new facility will support agricultural development and is expected to help increase crop production, improve plant quality, strengthen food security and support the resilience of the local agricultural sector,” he added.
By combining mechanical support with biotechnological advancement, the government aims to reduce the nation’s reliance on imported planting materials while increasing the competitive edge of local produce for both regional and international markets.