The Tribune

The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) has teamed with the People’s Republic of China to supply 15 tool kits to North Andros farmers.

The donation ceremony, held on December 13, saw equipment such as shovels, wheelbarrows, fertilizers and lawnmowers distributed to farmers in a bid to boost agricultural development and food security.

Yan Jiarong, Chinese ambassador to The Bahamas, said: “Food security is also a big challenge for China. China has 1.4bn people – 22 per cent of the world’s population, but only 6 per cent [of the] arable land and only 9 per cent of the world’s fresh water resources.

“We have gone through this whole process and so that’s why we really understand what The Bahamas is fighting with. And that’s why we really want to help our brothers and sisters from the global south.

“In recent years, my embassy has donated green houses to local schools in communities and we have invited many Bahamians to participate in agriculture technical training. We have set up a demonstration farm at the Gladstone Road Agriculture Centre (GRAC).”

Leonardo Lightbourne, MP for North Andros and the Berry Islands, said: “I am honoured to accept these gifts on behalf of North Andros farmers. This is just another step in the right direction as we ensure that they are equipped with the necessary tools and resources.

“We are indeed grateful. I am sure they would be delighted to receive this donation. On behalf of the farmers, we extend a heartfelt thank you to the People’s Republic of China, Ambassador Jiarong and the chairman of BAIC.”

Darron Pickstock, BAIC chairman, reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to ensuring Bahamian farmers have access to the necessary tools and training. “I’m truly excited to stand before you today to celebrate a momentous step forward in growth and empowerment. This is just the first of many through our partnership with the People’s Republic of China and BAIC. There is more to come,” said Mr Pickstock.

“It is incredibly fulfilling to see this partnership come to fruition in such a meaningful way for the people of The Bahamas and, in particular, the people of North Andros. In recognition of this immense potential within the agricultural sector, in particular North Andros, the Chinese embassy has taken a monumental step to help us to move the needle forward to our goals of food security, sustainability and self-sufficiency.

“This donation is not just generous, it is transformative. I truly believe that farmers are the root of all good things. On behalf of BAIC, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for this extraordinary gesture. Those tools and equipment will play a critical role in empowering the farmers of North Andros and propelling our entire agriculture sector forward.”