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15 April 2024
Nominations open for 2024 Champions of the Earth Award with a focus on land restoration, drought resilience, combating desertification
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11 April 2024
UN convenes Intergenerational Dialogue in Barbados to support ‘We the Women’ Global Campaign
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09 April 2024
Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory receives international designation
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
The United Nations Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in collaboration with its partners is supporting implementation of the sustainable development goals across the 10 countries covered by our multi-country office (MCO). These 17 Global Goals are a roadmap to address the most pressing challenges facing Caribbean citizens and persons all over the world, to create a sustainable future for all.
Kindly note that the data visualizations show an aggregate of the Caribbean. To view the disaggregated data per country, please click on the name of the country or territory you wish to explore.
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19 March 2024
A Decade of Champions: Rotary Barbados and the UN Celebrate Partnership in 11th Session of Model United Nations
The gavel fell at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Barbados, marking a momentous occasion. Not just the start of another Rotary Clubs of Barbados Model United Nations (RCOB MUN) session, but a decade of collaboration between the RCB and the United Nations (UN). This year, the energy crackled as passionate young minds from across the island tackled the critical issue of children's rights.A Decade of Building Future LeadersFor ten years, the Rotary Clubs of Barbados Model UN has been a launchpad for future leaders. View the full photo album here 🎞️.As President Ermine Darroux-Francis of the Rotary Clubs of Barbados pointed out, "Partnerships amplify our impact and help us collectively make a more substantial and positive difference in our community." This sentiment echoed throughout the ceremony, highlighting the decade-long collaboration between the RCB, the UN in Barbados and Eastern Caribbean, and the three Rotary Clubs in Barbados.Champions for Child Rights:This year's theme focused on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, with sub-themes delving into critical issues like children in armed conflict, trafficking, access to education and healthcare, and family support services. The diverse perspectives of UN member nations were central to the discussions.Senator the Honourable Lisa R. Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business Development, Hon Rotarian, Past President and facilitator captured the essence of the event. She stated, "I'm super proud of these future leaders for doing their research and taking on the 'country brief' of their nation. This is what international diplomacy is about. You understand the assignment from your capital and you stand and deliver. It's not a personal perspective – you carry your brief on behalf of your nation and defend it vigorously." Senator Cummins' pride resonated as all the students embodied this ideal. A Global Commitment to ChildrenThe UN's unwavering commitment to children's rights was reaffirmed. Kenroy Roach, Head of the Resident Coordinator's Office, delivered remarks on behalf of UN Resident Coordinator Didier Trebucq. Mr. Roach emphasized the importance of the issue, stating, "It serves as a cornerstone of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." He elaborated on the interconnectedness of the SDGs, aiming for a world "where every child can thrive." However, he acknowledged the threats children face and urged the students to become advocates. View the full photo album here 🎞️.Beyond the Gavel: A Call to ActionThe RCOB MUN is more than just a simulation; it's a springboard for action. Mr. Roach's message resonated with the closing remarks. He highlighted the agency of the students, stating, "The fight for a brighter future for all children begins with each of you." The UN and the Rotary Clubs of Barbados echoed this sentiment, urging the delegates to become relentless advocates for child protection. They challenged them to be a voice in their schools, champions in their communities, and agents of positive change for a brighter future.Nurturing Future Diplomats Ambassador Matthew Wilson, Barbados' representative to the UN, World Trade Organization and other international organizations in Geneva, also addressed the gathering. He commended the students' development, observing, "You have been hard at work gaining the necessary skills in the fields of diplomacy, in government, in civil advocacy and international relations. I see commitment, I see independent thinking, modesty, collaboration, confidence and the understanding of perspectives of others." Ambassador Wilson's recognition underscored the valuable skills honed by the delegates during the RCOB MUN.This year's Model United Nations, with its focus on child rights and its decade-long legacy, serves as a beacon of hope. It showcases the power of collaboration in empowering young people to become champions for a more just and equitable world. The future is indeed bright, thanks to this dedicated group of future leaders, who leave the RCOB MUN equipped with the skills and passion to make a difference, as Ambassador Wilson noted, demonstrating "commitment, independent thinking, collaboration, confidence and the understanding of perspectives of others." Senator Cummins' observations about their embodiment of true diplomacy add another layer to their impressive accomplishment.
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30 March 2024
UNICEF and OECS Strengthen Partnership to Improve Lives of Children in Eastern Caribbean
Castries, Saint Lucia, 26 March 2024 - UNICEF and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Tuesday signed a renewed Partnership Agreement, which will directly impact the lives of children and young people across OECS Member States. The agreement supports the OECS Human and Social Development Strategy, focusing on key areas aligned with the missions of both UNICEF and the OECS. These areas are Child Protection, Social Protection, Inclusive Education, Youth Engagement, and Climate and Resilience. “UNICEF represents one of the finest examples of collaboration and partnership between the OECS and a UN Agency,” said OECS Commission Director General Dr. Didacus Jules. “This partnership is distinct, with active discussions and engagement on concepts, ideas, and experiences that enrich both organizations.” Dr. Jules revealed that the new OECS-UNICEF partnership extends beyond OECS Member States to include British Overseas Territories as Associated Members. He commended UNICEF's continuous support in strengthening integration within the OECS. UNICEF Representative for the Eastern Caribbean, Pieter Bult, underscored the importance of his organization's close relationship with the OECS Commission. “Our partnership with the OECS is invaluable,” Bult declared. “We aim to make the OECS more effective, especially in areas of joint interest, and for our teams to work closer together on planning and implementing projects.” Mr. Bult emphasized the unique challenges facing Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the OECS as another area of priority. “Children’s lives cannot be addressed through a sectoral lens,” said Bult. “We need to see the collective impact of our interventions to achieve real progress. There is still much work to do, especially with increasing child poverty post-COVID and the need to focus on Early Childhood Education. With the OECS’s help, we hope to make a significant difference.” The OECS plans to increase the visibility of UNICEF-funded programmes, including beneficiary testimonials and a documentary highlighting key milestones and successes of the long-standing partnership. Dr. Jules concluded by stating, “In all our partnerships, our partners' flag will fly equally high beside ours.”
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19 March 2024
Stop Victim Blaming: UN Women Pushes for Fair Reporting of Violence
Roseau Dominica, 07 March 2024: Tonni Brodber, Representative, UN Women Multi-Country Office – Caribbean has stressed that reporting on gender-based violence should not be buying into tropes of gender stereotypes that paint women in the worst versions of Eve and Delilah. She further told communicators there is need to ensure a multiplicity of stories are told and in a way that people can understand the root cause of the issues.Ms. Brodber was addressing the start of a gender sensitive communication workshop funded by the Global Affairs Canada Build Back Equal Project in partnership with the Canada-CARICOM Expert Deployment Mechanism implemented by Catalyse+ with facilitation by Canada’s CUSO International.The UN Women Representative also highlighted to the workshop participants, that there are far too many headlines referring to an adult man and his lover, when referring to a teenager.“A 13-year-old girl should not be reported as an equal lover to a 30- or 27-year-old man. Our legislation says they are not equal”. She added that it is critical ‘to better understand what we mean when we speak about Gender Equality. We are talking about the roles that women play as mothers, as daughters, caretaking for our families…and to explore how can we better support women in all of their roles and men as they engage in their community activities and also take on more responsibilities of care.”Ms. Brodber also said if the “Why” is not communicated when doing the “What”, no one will care and the work will not be sustainable. The UN Women Representative said understanding what a comprehensive approach to resilience, means understanding that a comprehensive approach to economic empowerment is needed and this is what the Build Back Equal Project represents; where resilience is a reality because it is embedded before any hazards occurs.Participants at the Gender Sensitive Communication WorkshopThe Build Back Equal Project is funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented with the Governments of the four beneficiary Caribbean countries: Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with UN Women as lead agency and UNFPA. On the eve of International Women’s Day, Ms. Brodber stressed Canada’s investments in this region have been in place since the 1980s and UN Women is deeply appreciative of the investment.Abebech Assefa, Canada’s Head of Cooperation for the Eastern Caribbean, speaking on the BBE ProjectCanada’s Head of Cooperation for the Eastern Caribbean Abebech Assefa said:“The Build Back Equal Initiative, implemented by UN Women and UNFPA, is designed to help address some of the key barriers that are preventing women from fully achieving their economic potential. This involves addressing critical access to business training and financing for micro and small women led businesses; addressing un-paid care leave; strengthening access to sexual and reproductive health services etc.”The Global Affairs Canada official also said achieving gender equality requires a concerted effort from everyone and a multi-pronged approach.“One component of this approach is ensuring that we build our capacities to recognize gender biases and to design appropriate responses to address those biases.When working on a particular issue/sector, you hear us talk about achieving gender equality and immediately focus on women and girls. It is not because we believe that gender equality is only about women and girls. It is because for the issues that we are trying to tackle, the analyses have shown that women and girls are lagging and are not having access to the same opportunities or resources as their male counterparts,” Ms. Assefa said.Honourable Dr. Cassandra Williams, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social ServicesThe Honourable Dr. Cassandra Williams, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, with special responsibility for Gender, told the participants that Parliament had last year approved a suite of family model bills aimed at strengthening family structures and establishing mechanisms to support vulnerable individuals within society.The Minister added: “These legislative measures show our dedication to promoting the well-being and safety of all citizens, particularly those facing domestic violence and other forms of gender-based violence.This gender-sensitivity communication training serves as a continuation of our commitment to implementing the laws approved earlier and ensuring that reporting is conducted in a manner that is not only gender-friendly but also aligned with the spirit of the amended laws, particularly the Domestic Violence Act”, the Minister added.
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08 March 2024
Barbados Government and United Nations System in the Caribbean host Annual Coordination Meeting to review achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in the region
BRIDGETOWN, 8 March 2024 – The region’s progress on implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, and the efficacy of the United Nations partnership in the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean, came under the microscope this week, as regional Governments joined with the United Nations System to assess their joint response to regional development priorities under the current UN Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF).The opportunity came during the Annual Coordination Meeting and meeting of the MSDCF Joint Steering Committee, which is part of the governance mechanism for its implementation, held at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle Resort in Barbados, on March 6 – 7. In his welcome remarks to the Annual Coordination Meeting, UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq, thanked Government partners for their participation in the meeting convened to facilitate review of their efforts in 2023, the second year of implementation of the regional Cooperation Framework.“Ahead of the 4th SIDS Conference, today is special, a crucial moment to take stock of the progress achieved in year two of the MSDCF, discuss strategies for SDG acceleration and seize the opportunity of what the UN has to offer,” he stated, while noting that despite the ongoing challenges of the past years and the multiple and compound crises facing the region, “our partnership with government remained strong and we were able to support our countries to achieve a number of transformational results.”Mr. Trebucq cited achievements in the areas of advancing the food security agenda, fostering sustainable livelihoods, scaling digital transformation, and enhancing disaster risk reduction, among others under the MSDCF. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Barbados, Dr. the Hon, Shantal Munro-Knight, who co-chaired the MSDCF Joint Steering Committee along with the Resident Coordinator, also reiterated the need to further strengthen and leverage partnerships towards the global goals. She challenged however that the “success of the regional framework has to be judged by the extent that it brings people and communities along, both in terms of benefits and ownership”.“As governments, as partners, we must instil an ethos that the SDGs are not about us as the Government only … this is a shared responsibility. There will be consequences for all of us if we are not able to deliver on the SDGs for our people,” she underlined.Tonni Brodber, UN Women Representative and agency co-chair of the MSDCF Joint Steering Committee also addressed the forum noting “A key comparative advantage of the UN is our combined technical knowledge and know-how across the priorities identified in the Sustainable Development Goals.”The hybrid meeting saw discussions on food systems, data and digitalisation, resilience to climate change equality and shared prosperity and economic resilience, within the context of how the UN can support countries across the region to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, with agreement on strategies for strengthening this mechanism.Interventions from member states addressed whether the Cooperation Framework delivered effective and efficient programming in line with national priorities, as well as gaps and opportunities for SDG acceleration.The Multi Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF) is the most important instrument for planning and implementation of the UN development activities towards the fulfilment of the 2030 Agenda in the Caribbean. The UN and the governments in the region are committing to contribute to significant structural changes in the economies and governance systems of participating countries towards: Economic resilience and shared prosperity; Equality and well-being; Resilience to climate change and shocks, and sustainable natural resource management; and peace, safety, justice, and the rule of law.The Joint Steering Committee comprises ministerial representatives of the 22 country signatories to the Cooperation Framework, as well as representatives from 23 UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes that implement development projects in the region.-END-
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18 March 2024
PAHO engages with youth footballers
Bridgetown, Barbados. 14 March 2024 (PAHO) - PAHO staff recently hosted a community engagement activity for members of the Barbados Women’s Football Association which was warmly received by both sides.‘All about Me’ was the theme for the engagement activity, which is part of PAHO’s community outreach programme developed to promote mental health well-being and social interaction, to facilitate personal and team empowerment.PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, Dr. Amalia Del Riego, welcomed the girls, their manager, coach, and parents and gave an overview of PAHO.The Barbados Women’s Football Association team members, girls ages 12 to 15 years, participated in fun icebreakers – balloon name activity, alphabet name activity and descriptive introductions.Then a mind mapping exercise ensued where the girls discussed what health and wellness means to them and posed anonymous questions about mental health, sexual and reproductive health.Credit: PAHO/Brenda Lashley - Dr. Taraleen Malcolm (left) and Dr. Gloria Giraldo (right) facilitating sessions with the football team.Advisor, NCDs and Mental Health, for the Barbados and Eastern Caribbean Countries (ECC) Office, Dr. Taraleen Malcolm, led a discussion with the adolescents and teens on Mental Health inclusive of managing bullying and dealing with stress, and this was followed by an interactive talk on Women’s Health (Understanding our Bodies) coordinated by Dr. Gloria Giraldo, Advisor, NCDs and Mental Health, Subregional Caribbean Office.Credit: PAHO/Brenda Lashley - After demonstrating their football skills on the field, the team engaged in a friendly game with our staffFollowing the indoor exercises, roles were reversed, and it was the young ladies’ turn to become tutors when they ventured on to the turf outdoors. They demonstrated several football drills for the benefit of PAHO staff, under the direction of Barbados Women’s Football Association Manager Tricia Brown and Coach Fitzgerald Carter.Dr. Del Riego described the evening as a resounding success.“It was our intention to meet the members of the Barbados Women’s Football Association, share developmental strategies with the team members and learn how they perceive their own development, in a fun and relaxed environment,” she said. “We bonded with the girls and both sides have definitely been enriched by the experience.”Credit: PAHO/Brenda Lashley - Team captain Taryn Sutherland (left) expressed appreciation to Dr. Amalia Del Riego, PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, for hosting the football team.
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11 April 2024
UN convenes Intergenerational Dialogue in Barbados to support ‘We the Women’ Global Campaign
BRIDGETOWN, 11 April 2024 – Caribbean women of different generations and walks of life in Barbados, were recently afforded the opportunity to share their views and aspirations for the world they envisioned, alongside practical solutions to pressing global challenges including the climate crisis, rising violence, and the reversal of gains in women’s rights.The opportunity came as United Nations, Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, through the Resident Coordinator’s Office, convened an Intergenerational Dialogue at UN House, Barbados, as part of a “We the Women” Global Campaign launched on May 8, International Women’s Day. The global campaign aims to gather women's voices and perspectives for shaping a better future. It includes a global survey that solicits feedback on women’s priorities, fears, and hopes for the future, followed by a series of intergenerational dialogues, to compliment the quantitative survey findings with richer, more quantitative insights. In delivering welcome remarks to the forum, UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq, told the women present who ranged in age from their 30s to their 70s: “we firmly believe that women must be central to decision-making, particularly on issues impacting their lives, families, and communities. This intergenerational dialogue ensures your voices are heard and contribute meaningfully to shaping our world's future.”The group, that also included women with disabilities, offered hope and wisdom based on their various fields, including education, international development, law, human rights, business, and politics. The session got underway with a vibrant ‘Fireside Chat’ with Dr. Rosina Wiltshire, Development Practitioner, and Gabrielle Gay, Law student and Founder of the Erline Bradshaw Foundation. The pair, who represented two generations at the opposite end of the spectrum, offered shared views on the progress made and the issues and challenges that remained in the areas of global governance, the climate crisis, educational reform, and gender-based violence. They also highlighted strategies and needs to be prioritised to ensure that the world is a better place. Making a strong call for educational reform to foster a gender-just Caribbean Ms. Gay contended: “Education is the nucleus of society’s progress… we cannot progress unless we change our mindsets.” Dr. Wiltshire also emphasized the need for a redefining of masculinity, to include vulnerability and emotional expression, and to challenge existing stereotypes that equate manhood with toughness and aggression. Similarly, she underscored the need for the redefining of our language, as well as what we value as a society, and how we define wealth.“Love is powerful. Love transforms our reality, so it is not ‘soft’, but we have to deepen the language we use to redefine what we value,” she maintained adding: “What do we value? What is wealth? We must move from merely financial wealth to social wealth, spiritual wealth, environmental wealth, intellectual wealth, and other dimensions that make for a healthy community, a healthy nation, and a healthy world.”Salient contributions were also made by the other panellists who expressed concerns and suggested means to advance human rights, women in leadership, business and politics. In her contribution, High Court Judge, Justice Jacqueline Cornelius Thorne contended: “You cannot be a full citizen of any country unless very early on you understand as both men and women, that women are deserving of the full rights of citizenship, that they're entitled to the full extent of participation in the economy and politics. That is what we are not teaching young men.” The viewpoints and ideas expressed during the Intergenerational Dialogue will be woven into a national report which will feed into a comprehensive global report. Both the survey and the global report will serve as inputs for the Pact for the Future, the anticipated outcome document of the Summit of the Future during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly.The “We the Women” Global Campaign, is part of the forerunner “Women Rise for All Campaign”, an initiative of the UN Deputy Secretary General, in recognition of the transformative leadership of women leaders in keeping the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals.View the full album here. 🎞️-----ENDS----Media Contact:Carol A. Gaskin
Communications and Advocacy Officer
UN Resident Coordinator Office
Email: carol-ann.gaskin@un.org ; Tel: +1 (246) 467-6110; Mobile: +1 (246) 832-6110
Communications and Advocacy Officer
UN Resident Coordinator Office
Email: carol-ann.gaskin@un.org ; Tel: +1 (246) 467-6110; Mobile: +1 (246) 832-6110
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11 April 2024
Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory receives international designation
Bridgetown, Barbados, 8th April 2024 (PAHO) - It was a historic day for Barbados on 8th April 2024, when the World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognized the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory as a National Influenza Centre (NIC).On 31st October 2023, the World Health Organization recognized the laboratory as a National Influenza Centre (NIC) and as a member of the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS). During the April ceremony, the official certificate of designation was presented to the lab.PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, Dr. Amalia Del Riego, deemed the occasion a celebration of “the unwavering commitment to health and safety that this represents for Barbados and the wider Caribbean region.”Dr. Del Riego stated that “the laboratory is recognized for its high standards and its ability to perform specialized diagnostics which contribute to global flu surveillance and provide critical data that helps in the fight against flu and pandemics.”The lab’s new role will “empower Barbados to better understand the flu, track its changes and protect the population through more effective vaccines and treatments.”The audience comprising Best-dos Santos Laboratory and Ministry of Health and Wellness staff also heard that many international partners who joined them at the ceremony from the European Union, the US Government, USAID, the Argentinian government, the UK AID, and Canada, have been instrumental in providing support to the laboratory through PAHO.Prime Minister the Hon. Mia Amor Mottley lauded the designation as a measure of pride for us. The Prime Minister remarked that “we have shown that it is possible to be able to reach global excellence and to have this designation by the World Health Organization says to the rest of the world that this lab has reached these standards and is capable of being trusted.”For us to have a lab, said the Prime Minister, that can be truly trusted with respect to its results “doesn’t mean there’s always perfection, but that the systems and processes are worthy of trust and that if something goes wrong, we can easily and quickly determine what has happened in order to get back on the straight and narrow path.”Referring to Barbadian health champions Sir Kenneth Standard, Sir Kenneth Stuart and former PAHO Director Sir George Alleyne, Prime Minister Mottley said Barbados has shown, particularly in public health, that we are able to produce some of the best in the hemisphere and the world.The prime minister observed that investing in health means Barbados is moving from monitoring and diagnosing to research and said: “Our people have the capacity also to be at the cutting edge of the research capabilities that we need in this world to make lives better for our people.”The lab was also credited with providing employment opportunities.Describing the designation as recognition of years of hard work, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Davidson Ishmael, credited the lab with processing more than 800,000 tests over the last three years.As part of the government’s strategic plan, he said, enhanced laboratory services will include cancer diagnostics which includes immunohistochemistry staining, analysis of cancer biomarkers, flow cytometry, genetic testing and more. Screening for COVID-19, influenza A and B are offered and screening protocols for pancreatic and breast cancers are being developed. Antimicrobial resistance surveillance and monitoring is also undertaken by the lab, along with other testing.Sixty-three million dollars has been allocated toward primary health care in the new financial year, said the Minister, and $2 million has been earmarked for laboratory services, while another $1 million is going toward the upgrade of laboratory equipment.The Best-dos Santos Laboratory has been instrumental in supporting the neighbouring countries in the Eastern Caribbean, offering training, sharing knowledge, and building capacity. At its helm is its Director, The Most Honorable Songee Beckles FB, FMT, PhD, who guided the audience through the lab’s evolution from dream to an amalgamation of laboratories. The lab opened in 2018 with funding from the US Government and the Barbados Government.Credit: PAHO/Brenda Lashley - Director of the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory, The Most Honorable Songee Beckles, FB, FMT, PhD (second from right) with staff of the laboratory.
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11 April 2024
FAO Partners with Barbados to Build a High-Performance, Sustainable Agricultural Sector
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is joining forces with the Barbadian government to elevate the country's agricultural sector to a position of excellence, contributing to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This collaborative effort, aligned with SDG 2: Zero Hunger, was highlighted during a recent meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security, bringing together FAO Assistant Director-General Manuel Barange, Country Representative Juan Cheaz, and Minister Indar Weir.Strengthening Collaboration and Resource SharingMinister Indar Weir expressed his enthusiasm for the progress report presented by FAO Assistant Director-General Manuel Barange and Country Representative Juan Cheaz on the Country Programme Framework Agreement signed in 2023."We aim to leverage this opportunity to identify areas for further development based on the current initiatives," stated Minister Weir. "Collaboration with various stakeholders, particularly international partners, will provide access to vital research and development resources, alongside best practices from around the world, to propel Barbados' agricultural sector forward," he added, emphasizing the importance of partnerships which contributes to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.The FAO has committed a significant $17 million investment over four years (2022-2026) to achieve the program's priorities, potentially creating employment opportunities within the sector (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth). Mr. Cheaz anticipated mobilizing "around 50% of the resources" through active projects and planned initiatives by the end of 2024.A Multifaceted Approach to Sustainable AgricultureA key component of the program is a comprehensive food system assessment. This initiative will require collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Wellness, and Education, due to their critical roles within the broader food system. This collaborative approach strengthens various SDGs.Assistant Director-General Barange, who also leads the FAO's Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, underscored the need for a multifaceted approach to achieving sustainable development in agriculture. This includes exploring innovative techniques like aquaponics farming, optimizing fishing harbor operations, and utilizing sargassum seaweed as a resource.Following a visit to a silage processing facility, Mr. Barange commended Barbados' use of silage as a fertilizer, highlighting its positive impact on crop yields and contribution to overall sustainability through waste reduction. Transforming Waste into ResourcesRecognizing the significant amount of fish waste generated in Barbados (around 3,000 tons annually), the FAO Director advocated for the adoption of circular economy principles. "By repurposing fish waste," Mr. Barange explained, "Barbados can not only mitigate environmental pollution but also foster sustainable practices within the agricultural sector," promoting resource efficiency (SDG 12).The FAO looks forward to finalising agreements that will secure broader program funding. These agreements are seen as crucial for implementing impactful and sustainable agricultural initiatives in Barbados. By working together, the UN and Barbados aim to ensure the continued growth and resilience of the country's agricultural sector, contributing to a more food-secure and sustainable future.
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11 April 2024
Virtual Reality Tool Embraced by UNICEF Representative
27 March 2024, Castries, Saint Lucia - Imagine stepping into a world where classrooms are no longer confined by four walls. This is the exciting new frontier of education being pioneered in Saint Lucia, thanks to a pilot programme that uses virtual reality (VR) to make learning immersive, engaging, and fun for students."This pilot programme aligns perfectly with UNICEF's vision of making learning exciting for children," said UNICEF Representative Pieter Bult.Bult was on a visit to the La Guerre Primary School where he gained firsthand experience in the programme spearheaded by JOIE Innovative Solutions Inc. He also interacted with students who are using VR goggles to explore various subjects as part of their curriculum."We've been working with JOIE Innovative Solutions Inc. for the past semester, and the results are very promising," the UNICEF Representative added.The pilot programme boasts a near-perfect satisfaction rating from students, with most rating their VR learning experience a stellar 9 out of 10. This positive response reflects the programme's ability to tap into students' natural affinity for technology and cater to their individual learning styles."The children are ecstatic about using the VR headsets," says Bernice Lewis, founder of JOIE Innovative Learning Solutions. "We've seen a significant increase in enthusiasm and believe this will translate into improved academic performance."Ms. Lewis, an educator with over a decade of experience, emphasizes the transformative power of VR for both students and teachers. "VR opens up a world of possibilities," she explains. "It fosters engagement, making the learning process enjoyable for students and more effective for teachers."The educator credits UNICEF's support as a critical factor in bringing the programme to life for the Grade 6 students at La Guerre Primary, noting that it aligns perfectly with JOIE's mission of "no boring classes"."Our goal is to cultivate a love for learning," says Lewis. "By combining the joy of discovery with sound educational practices, we can empower students to achieve great things."
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27 March 2024
Haiti: Escalating violence and economic shocks compound hunger crisis
Port-au-Prince/Santiago de Chile - Haiti is in the grip of a worsening humanitarian crisis, with nearly half of the population likely facing acute food insecurity, according to the latest Integrated Food Security Classification (IPC) analysis. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) warns of dire consequences unless urgent action is taken to address the root causes of this crisis.
Around 4.97 million people are experiencing or will likely experience high levels of acute food insecurity between March and June 2024. Of these, 1.64 million people (17 percent of the analyzed population) are classified in IPC Phase 4 (Emergency), who are mostly concentrated in eight areas including the Artibonite valley, rural areas of La Grand’Anse, La Gonâve, the transverse part of the West and impoverished neighbourhoods Cité Soleil, Croix de Bouquets and Port-au-Prince. These figures show a stark deterioration of food security in Haiti, with 532,000 additional people experiencing acute food insecurity compared to previous estimates for the same period.
The hunger crisis is fuelled by a myriad of factors, including escalating armed gang violence, economic shocks, low agricultural yields, below-average rainfall, the lingering impacts of the August 2021 earthquake along with successive floods and reduced access to humanitarian aid.
Violence perpetrated by armed groups has intensified in recent months, resulting in the internal displacement of approximately 362,000 people, including 50,000 displaced within the last three months, according to IOM.
This escalation in violence not only disrupts the circulation of goods and restricts access to markets but also inflates the prices of essential food items in an already fragile context. El Niño has compounded agricultural challenges, particularly affecting crop producers.
Delays in the rainy season and rainfall deficits have significantly impacted the outcome of the 2023 spring season, typically representing half of the national agricultural production. Heavy rains and severe flooding in mid-November 2023 have damaged crops, homes and infrastructure. Local agricultural production deficits and market supply chain dysfunction have kept food prices high, hindering access to food. In 2023, agricultural production plummeted by around 39 percent for maize, 34 percent for rice and 22 percebt for sorghum compared to the five-year average.
Agriculture stands as a vital lifeline for Haitians, with over 75 percent of the most food-insecure people residing in rural areas. Urgent support is needed to boost agricultural and livestock production, ensuring the availability of and access to food for vulnerable farming families and communities.
The Ministers and Vice-ministers of Latin America and the Caribbean, assembled at the 38th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, held in the city of Georgetown, Guyana from 18 to 21 March, addressed Haiti´s situation and included a specific resolution on this topic: “We expressed solidarity with the Republic of Haiti for the deteriorating humanitarian situation that compromises the food security and nutrition, as well as the livelihoods of its population,” it said.
FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mario Lubetkin, said “We are consistent with the countries' demands regarding the priority we should give to Haiti´s critical situation”.
FAO, with its local offices and teams actively present in the field, continues to closely monitor the situation and deliver essential agricultural support for the upcoming planting seasons. FAO is also ready to provide vulnerable populations, both displaced and residents, in urban and peri-urban areas of Port au Prince with critical assistance (i.e. cash transfers along with vegetable seeds and tools) to meet their basic needs and restore their agricultural livelihoods.More on this topicIPC report: Haiti: Acute Food Security Situation Projection Update for March - June 2024IPC overview and classification system
Around 4.97 million people are experiencing or will likely experience high levels of acute food insecurity between March and June 2024. Of these, 1.64 million people (17 percent of the analyzed population) are classified in IPC Phase 4 (Emergency), who are mostly concentrated in eight areas including the Artibonite valley, rural areas of La Grand’Anse, La Gonâve, the transverse part of the West and impoverished neighbourhoods Cité Soleil, Croix de Bouquets and Port-au-Prince. These figures show a stark deterioration of food security in Haiti, with 532,000 additional people experiencing acute food insecurity compared to previous estimates for the same period.
The hunger crisis is fuelled by a myriad of factors, including escalating armed gang violence, economic shocks, low agricultural yields, below-average rainfall, the lingering impacts of the August 2021 earthquake along with successive floods and reduced access to humanitarian aid.
Violence perpetrated by armed groups has intensified in recent months, resulting in the internal displacement of approximately 362,000 people, including 50,000 displaced within the last three months, according to IOM.
This escalation in violence not only disrupts the circulation of goods and restricts access to markets but also inflates the prices of essential food items in an already fragile context. El Niño has compounded agricultural challenges, particularly affecting crop producers.
Delays in the rainy season and rainfall deficits have significantly impacted the outcome of the 2023 spring season, typically representing half of the national agricultural production. Heavy rains and severe flooding in mid-November 2023 have damaged crops, homes and infrastructure. Local agricultural production deficits and market supply chain dysfunction have kept food prices high, hindering access to food. In 2023, agricultural production plummeted by around 39 percent for maize, 34 percent for rice and 22 percebt for sorghum compared to the five-year average.
Agriculture stands as a vital lifeline for Haitians, with over 75 percent of the most food-insecure people residing in rural areas. Urgent support is needed to boost agricultural and livestock production, ensuring the availability of and access to food for vulnerable farming families and communities.
The Ministers and Vice-ministers of Latin America and the Caribbean, assembled at the 38th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, held in the city of Georgetown, Guyana from 18 to 21 March, addressed Haiti´s situation and included a specific resolution on this topic: “We expressed solidarity with the Republic of Haiti for the deteriorating humanitarian situation that compromises the food security and nutrition, as well as the livelihoods of its population,” it said.
FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mario Lubetkin, said “We are consistent with the countries' demands regarding the priority we should give to Haiti´s critical situation”.
FAO, with its local offices and teams actively present in the field, continues to closely monitor the situation and deliver essential agricultural support for the upcoming planting seasons. FAO is also ready to provide vulnerable populations, both displaced and residents, in urban and peri-urban areas of Port au Prince with critical assistance (i.e. cash transfers along with vegetable seeds and tools) to meet their basic needs and restore their agricultural livelihoods.More on this topicIPC report: Haiti: Acute Food Security Situation Projection Update for March - June 2024IPC overview and classification system
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Press Release
15 April 2024
Nominations open for 2024 Champions of the Earth Award with a focus on land restoration, drought resilience, combating desertification
Nairobi, 15 April 2024 – The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) today launched a call for nominations for the annual Champions of the Earth award – the UN’s highest environmental honour, which recognizes outstanding leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector for their transformative impact on the environment.This year, UNEP encourages nominations of individuals and organizations developing and implementing sustainable policies and solutions to restore land, enhance drought resilience, and combat desertification.Since the award’s inception in 2005, Champions of the Earth has recognized 116 laureates, including 27 world leaders, 70 individuals and 19 organizations. In 2023, UNEP received a record 2,500 nominations for the award.As we approach the halfway mark of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, urgent action is needed to protect and revive ecosystems. Restoration improves livelihoods, reduces poverty, builds resilience to extreme weather and slows the climate crisis. To support the natural world, governments, civil society and the private sector must scale up financing, build capacity and shift behaviours.World Environment Day on 5 June 2024 will focus on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience. The UN Convention to Combat Desertification, marking its thirtieth anniversary this year, will convene its sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP) in December.Restoring and reviving nature is critical to improving human and planetary health. Leaders from all sectors and regions are actively working to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity and nature loss, and pollution and waste. The Champions of the Earth help lead that push. They remind us that environmental sustainability is key to achieving sustainable development.Individuals, organizations and government entities may be nominated under the categories of Policy Leadership, Inspiration and Action, Entrepreneurial Vision, and Science and Innovation. Nominations are open from 15 April to 5 May 2024 to everyone. The Champions of the Earth will be announced in late 2024.Nominate a Champion of the Earth In 2023, UNEP recognized individuals, organizations and governments implementing innovative solutions and policies to tackle plastic pollution. UNEP’s 2023 Champions of the Earth were:Mayor Josefina Belmonte of Quezon City, Philippines, honoured in the Policy Leadership category, is driving environmental and social action through a raft of policies to combat the climate crisis, end plastic pollution and green the urban enclave. Her initiatives include bans on single-use plastics, a trade-in programme for plastic pollution, refill stations for everyday essentials and advocacy for strong global policymaking on plastics.Ellen MacArthur Foundation (United Kingdom), honoured in the Inspiration and Action category, has played a leading role in mainstreaming a lifecycle approach, including for plastics. The foundation has published reports and established networks of private and public sector decision makers, as well as academia, to develop lifecycle initiatives and solutions to the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, plastic pollution and more. It leads the Global Commitment with UNEP.Blue Circle (China), honoured in the Entrepreneurial Vision category, uses blockchain technology and the internet of things to track and monitor the full lifecycle of plastic pollution – from collection to regeneration, re-manufacturing and re-sale. It has collected over 10,700 tonnes of marine debris, making it China’s largest marine plastic waste programme.José Manuel Moller (Chile), also honoured in the Entrepreneurial Vision category, is the founder of Algramo, a social enterprise dedicated to providing refill services that reduce plastic pollution and lower the costs of everyday essentials. Moller also works to prevent, reduce and sustainably manage waste through his role as Vice Chair of the UN Advisory Board of Eminent Persons on Zero Waste, an initiative set up in March 2023.Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (South Africa), honoured in the Science and Innovation category, uses cutting-edge technology and multidisciplinary research to develop innovations to tackle plastic pollution and other issues. It is a pioneer in identifying sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics, establishing opportunities for local manufacturing and economic development and testing plastic biodegradability.About the UNEP Champions of the Earth
UNEP’s Champions of the Earth honours individuals, groups and organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment. The annual Champions of the Earth award is the UN’s highest environmental honour. #EarthChampsAbout the UN Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. For more information, please contact:
News and Media Unit, UN Environment Programme
UNEP’s Champions of the Earth honours individuals, groups and organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment. The annual Champions of the Earth award is the UN’s highest environmental honour. #EarthChampsAbout the UN Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. For more information, please contact:
News and Media Unit, UN Environment Programme
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Press Release
27 March 2024
Op-ED On Agrifood Systems: A Path to Sustainable Development In Latin America And The Caribbean
Every two years, FAO holds a Regional Ministerial Conference in Latin America and the Caribbean, bringing together its 33 Members in the region to monitor progress and address the challenges towards fighting hunger, poverty, malnutrition, and inequalities, and to achieving the transformation of agrifood systems to be more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable.In Latin America and the Caribbean, FAO’s agrifood systems approach has been effective in supporting countries in accelerating the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to FAO's latest estimates, the prevalence of undernourishment in the region decreased in 2022 to 6.5 percent, from 7.0 percent in 2021, which means that 2.4 million people are no longer suffering from hunger. However, such progress has occurred in South America (from 7.0 percent to 6.1 percent), while the prevalence of hunger has remained almost the same in Mesoamerica (from 5.0 percent to 5.1 percent). In the Caribbean, undernourishment has risen, from 14.7 percent in 2021 to 16.3 percent in 2022.These statistics only scratch the surface of the current challenges facing agrifood systems in the region, which include the impacts of the climate crisis, economic disparities, and an over-dependence on commodities. Although the region is a net food exporter and responsible for 13 percent of global food production, reliance on commodity imports and exports exposes its agrifood systems to macroeconomic volatility and geopolitical instability, which in turn negatively impact food prices and incomes and lead to unfavourable food security and nutrition outcomes.The 38th FAO Regional Ministerial Conference will be held in the Caribbean nation of Guyana from 18 to 21 March 2024. This conference is a significant opportunity for member countries to enhance their individual and collective innovative thinking and build capacity to adapt to the changing landscape of agrifood systems across the region, and beyond, and be prepared for possible future scenarios.With the engagement of governments and all partners, the conference aims to forge a consensus on tailored action plans for food and agriculture and to uphold the fundamental human right to food in an open, transparent, and inclusive manner.The experience in Latin America and the Caribbean shows that achieving sustainable agrifood systems requires concerted multi-sectoral efforts. Fighting hunger is an act of collective responsibility, and thanks to a thriving regional integration, tangible results have been achieved. FAO continues to work through relevant international and multilateral fora in the region, and beyond, to continue to highlight the food security agenda and accelerate actions to advance the transformation of agrifood systems.Ownership and leadership by FAO Members, and collective efforts by all development partners and stakeholders, are critical. Shared vision, foresight, responsibilities, and implementation arrangements are needed to achieve our goals. I would like to emphasize the significance of collaborations and partnerships across the Latin America and the Caribbean region.In recent years, significant strides have been taken to bring together diverse perspectives and reach a regional consensus that will provide the blueprint for the Organization’s work in the region for the next biennium.FAO is currently implementing around 400 national, sub-regional, and regional projects in Latin America and the Caribbean that have added millions of households to the agrifood value chain.Moreover, there is evidence that FAO's global initiatives, such as the Hand-in-Hand, the 1000 Digital Villages, and the One Country One Priority Product, have positively impacted farmers, especially smallholders, women, youth, Indigenous Peoples and marginalized groups and rural populations.At the Regional Ministerial Conference, FAO will focus on four interconnected regional priorities reflecting the “four betters” set out in the Organization's Strategic Framework 2022-31 - better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. These priorities aim to catalyze the transformation of agrifood systems by enhancing efficiency, inclusivity, and sustainability in production; eradicating hunger and advancing food security and nutrition; promoting the sustainable management of natural resources and adaptation to the climate crisis; and addressing inequalities, poverty, and fostering resilience.The comprehensive Strategic Framework for the next decade provides us with an opportunity to take a wide-ranging look at our agrifood systems, identify areas that need improvement, and take appropriate actions. Members benefit from FAO's technical expertise, assistance, and support through its headquarters, as well as regional, subregional, and country offices, to ensure effective implementation in support of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs. My focus is on strengthening FAO’s country offices to maximize their impact on the ground and support the work of Members at the country level.Our main goal for the region remains clear: to improve food production and ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food, while protecting natural resources and reducing inequalities, poverty, and hunger. We must produce more with less. To this end, we need to leverage the potential of cooperation, trade, investment and the utilization of innovation and technology within the region and with other regions.At FAO, we have realigned and refocused our efforts towards supporting Members in accelerating the transformation needed. We have adopted agile operating strategies, offered tailored and timely data and analytical support, enhanced our engagement with governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, and international financial institutions, and have established transformative partnerships with all key players. The reformed and restructured FAO is now better equipped, fit-for-purpose and already working towards this transformation for the benefit of people, planet, and prosperity.
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Press Release
27 March 2024
FAO regional conference: Latin America and the Caribbean chart the way towards sustainable fisheries and aquaculture for food security
March 19, 2024, Georgetown, Guyana –With 85 million people depending on aquatic foods for their livelihoods, these resources are vital to Latin America and the Caribbean's social, economic, and nutritional well-being. However, challenges such as climate change, pollution, and environmental degradation threaten the long-term viability of aquatic food systems, just as the region is at a crucial point on its path to food security and environmental sustainability.This urgency was the focus of the Ministerial Roundtable "Advancing fisheries and aquaculture towards sustainability under the Blue Transformation approach," held within the framework of the 38th FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, which is taking place these days in Georgetown, Guyana.The Blue Transformation is an approach aimed at redefining our relationship with aquatic foods and proposes a vision of sustainable aquaculture production, effective fisheries management, and improved value chains. The goal is to achieve more equitable, resilient, and sustainable food systems."If implemented sustainably, blue transformation will increase global aquatic food consumption, even as the population grows. But if we do not transform and do not have sustainable practices, we could reduce per capita consumption of this food, putting more pressure on land-based production systems," explained Manuel Barange, FAO Assistant Director-General and Director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division.Ministers, vice ministers, and high authorities from Dominica, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad, and Tobago shared their countries' experiences. They agreed on the need for a joint effort between governments, private companies, investors, civil society organizations, and other actors to promote innovation in systems, investments, and partnerships."In Panama, a new Fisheries and Aquaculture Law was adopted to encourage fishing, aquaculture, and blue fishing-related activities, ensuring that they are carried out in a sustainable manner, using appropriate methods that ensure the conservation, production, and marketing of these products, within an activity that benefits current and future generations," said Panama's Minister of Agricultural Development, Augusto Valderrama. Trinidad and Tobago's Minister of Agriculture, Lands, and Fisheries, Avinash Singh, said that "in the pursuit of sustainable management and development of our fisheries resources in Trinidad and Tobago, we are fortunate to collaborate with FAO in many areas of mutual interest, some of which include improving capacity for the adoption and implementation of the ecosystem approach to fisheries.Meanwhile, Jamaica's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, Floyd Green, argued that priority must be given to diversifying the livelihoods of small-scale fishers and fish farmers. "It is the only thing that can be done to reduce overfishing and support ecosystem management efforts throughout the region."The blue economy is one of Dominica's pillars of economic growth, said Roland Royer, the country's Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries."Collectively, we call on islands in the region to promote the sustainable use of marine resources in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 14 and 15. We endorse the regional protocol on the CARICOM Common Fisheries Policy for the sustainable use of living marine resources for blue economic growth and sustainable development, but much more is needed to boost the blue economy in the region."Vice Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture of Peru, Úrsula Desilú, said that her country "will continue with the implementation of actions that contribute to improving the sustainability of hydrobiological resources and will continue to face all upcoming challenges through innovative and beneficial means for our economic agents."The discussion document "Moving Towards the Sustainability of Fisheries and Aquaculture under the Blue Transformation Approach" was presented during the meeting. This document provides a clear and concise roadmap to guide implementation efforts aligned with FAO's Strategic Framework 2022-31.
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Press Release
27 March 2024
Haiti: Escalating violence and economic shocks compound hunger crisis
25 March 2024, Port-au-Prince/Santiago de Chile – Haiti is in the grip of a worsening humanitarian crisis, with nearly half of the population likely facing acute food insecurity, according to the latest Integrated Food Security Classification (IPC) analysis (IPC) . The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) warns of dire consequences unless urgent action is taken to address the root causes of this crisis.Around 4.97 million people are experiencing or will likely experience high levels of acute food insecurity between March and June 2024. Of these, 1.64 million people (17 percent of the analyzed population) are classified in IPC Phase 4 (Emergency), who are mostly concentrated in eight areas including the Artibonite valley, rural areas of La Grand’Anse, La Gonâve, the transverse part of the West and impoverished neighbourhoods Cité Soleil, Croix de Bouquets and Port-au-Prince. These figures show a stark deterioration of food security in Haiti, with 532,000 additional people experiencing acute food insecurity compared to previous estimates for the same period.The hunger crisis is fueled by a myriad of factors, including escalating armed gang violence, economic shocks, low agricultural yields, below-average rainfall, the lingering impacts of the August 2021 earthquake along with successive floods and reduced access to humanitarian aid.Violence perpetrated by armed groups has intensified in recent months, resulting in the internal displacement of approximately 362,000 people, including 50,000 displaced within the last three months, according to International Organization for Migration (IOM).This escalation in violence not only disrupts the circulation of goods and restricts access to markets but also inflates the prices of essential food items in an already fragile context. El Niño has compounded agricultural challenges, particularly affecting crop producers.Delays in the rainy season and rainfall deficits have significantly impacted the outcome of the 2023 spring season, typically representing half of the national agricultural production. Heavy rains and severe flooding in mid-November 2023 have damaged crops, homes and infrastructure. Local agricultural production deficits and market supply chain dysfunction have kept food prices high, hindering access to food. In 2023, agricultural production plummeted by around 39% for maize, 34% for rice and 22% for sorghum compared to the five-year average.Agriculture stands as a vital lifeline for Haitians, with over 75% of the most food-insecure people residing in rural areas. Urgent support is needed to boost agricultural and livestock production, ensuring the availability of and access to food for vulnerable farming families and communities.The Ministers and Vice-ministers of Latin America and the Caribbean, assembled at the38th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, held in the city ofGeorgetown, Guyana from 18 to 21 March, addressed Haiti´s situation and included a specific resolution on this topic: “We expressed solidarity with the Republic of Haiti for the deteriorating humanitarian situation that compromises the food security and nutrition, as well as the livelihoods of its population.”FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mario Lubetkin, said “We are consistent with the countries' demands regarding the priority we should give to Haiti´s critical situation”.FAO, with its local offices and teams actively present in the field, continues to closely monitor the situation and deliver essential agricultural support for the upcoming planting seasons. FAO is also ready to provide vulnerable populations, both displaced and residents, in urban and peri-urban areas of Port au Prince with critical assistance (i.e. cash transfers along with vegetable seeds and tools) to meet their basic needs and restore their agricultural livelihoods.Archive photographs:Photo 1Photo 2
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Press Release
13 March 2024
PAHO Equips Six Caribbean Countries in Drafting Legislation to Tackle Two Public Health Issues
Bridgetown, Barbados, 12 March 2024 (PAHO/WHO) - The Pan American Health Organization recently convened a four-day workshop in Barbados for public health and legal experts from six Caribbean countries. The focus was on legislation and the legal drafting of regulatory tools aimed at eliminating industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFA) and implementing sodium reduction targets for packaged foods.Excessive consumption of sodium and trans-fats ranks among the leading causes of death worldwide, contributing significantly to the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases, which are among the top causes of mortality. The elimination of trans-fats could save an estimated 17.5 million lives globally by 2040. Reducing dietary sodium has been identified as an effective and cost-efficient way to save lives; for every US$ 1 invested in scaling up sodium reduction interventions, there will be a return of at least US$ 12. While speaking at the start of the meeting in Barbados, the Director of the PAHO/WHO Subregional Program Coordination, Caribbean office, Dean Chambliss, noted that the potential gains are clear but there is an urgent need to adopt cost-effective measures. “The Caribbean Community has taken steps, aiming for a 0% legal limit of industrially produced trans fatty acids in our food supply… Considering that over 40% of the world's population has already put in place trans fatty acids limits, and with the availability of healthier, commercially competitive alternatives, it is imperative that the Caribbean aligns swiftly to eliminate trans-fatty acids,” he said. The Global Action Plan on NCDs aims to cut sodium intake by 30% and eliminate industrially produced trans fatty acids by 2025. The PAHO Subregional Director emphasised this could only be achieved through collaboration.In his remarks, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Hon Davidson Ishmael, underlined that the Barbados Government considers the drafting of regulatory tools for Industrially Produced Trans-Fatty Acids Elimination and Sodium Reduction of the utmost importance to improving health outcomes in an equitable way.“In alignment with PAHO and WHO guidelines, Barbados has resolved to eliminate industrially produced trans-fats from our food environment … Barbados remains steadfast in its commitment to removing Industrially Produced Trans-Fatty Acids from our local food supply by December 2024. We have engaged with both government and non-government stakeholders, including industry representatives, to ensure compliance and to establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms post-2024,” Mr Ishmael noted.The Minister of State also pledged to pilot and champion initiatives aimed at improving the overall food environment. This commitment includes the implementation of the Barbados School Nutrition Policy and the National Nutrition Policy, the introduction of taxation on sugar-sweetened beverages, and advocating for octagonal front-of-package warning labels.
PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, Dr Amalia Del Riego, described legislation and regulations as some of the most powerful tools in public health. “We know that they are effective, and that they have worked on many fronts. Therefore, in the comprehensive approach to NCDs we must continue making the efforts to enforce legislation that will address the determinants and risk factors of health. It will not be smooth sailing because we know the challenges in dealing with industry interests as they may not always be aligned with the greater good, the health of the people,” Dr Del Riego remarked.A recently produced study on the economic impact of eliminating industrially produced trans-fatty acids in Barbados was also shared with participants. Produced by PAHO, the University of the West Indies’ George Alleyne Chronic Disease Research Centre, the Caribbean Institute for Health Research, the Barbados Statistical Service and other regional partners, the report compared the 2019 consumption of Partially Hydrogenated Oil (PHOs) in Barbados with a counterfactual scenario in which PHOs were eliminated from the food supply. The study estimated that nine cardiovascular disease-related deaths are associated with not having a policy in place to ban PHOs from the food supply. Additionally, a national ban on the production or use of PHOs as an ingredient in all foods in 2019 would save more than half a million US Dollars ($546 246) in future productivity losses.
The workshop was organised in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency, the Healthy Caribbean Coalition, the University of the West Indies Faculty of Law at Cave Hill and Resolve to Save Lives. Six countries were represented at the meeting: Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Suriname.
END CONTACT: Lisa Bayley - bayleylis@paho.org, PAHO/WHO Office of the Subregional Program Coordination (Caribbean) About the Pan American Health Organisation: The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of its population. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health agency. It serves as the Regional Office of WHO for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the Inter-American system. The PAHO Subregional Program is responsible for providing subregional technical cooperation and to strengthen PAHO’s engagement with the Caribbean Subregional integration mechanisms, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and its various bodies and organs; and to build synergistic partnerships with the West Indies (UWI), among others. PAHO’s subregional technical cooperation specifically focuses on public health issues which would benefit from economies of scale and for which agreement on proposed collective responses and actions would produce a far greater impact rather than individual country responses. The Subregional Program also plays a role in coordinating among the different PAHO country offices.
PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, Dr Amalia Del Riego, described legislation and regulations as some of the most powerful tools in public health. “We know that they are effective, and that they have worked on many fronts. Therefore, in the comprehensive approach to NCDs we must continue making the efforts to enforce legislation that will address the determinants and risk factors of health. It will not be smooth sailing because we know the challenges in dealing with industry interests as they may not always be aligned with the greater good, the health of the people,” Dr Del Riego remarked.A recently produced study on the economic impact of eliminating industrially produced trans-fatty acids in Barbados was also shared with participants. Produced by PAHO, the University of the West Indies’ George Alleyne Chronic Disease Research Centre, the Caribbean Institute for Health Research, the Barbados Statistical Service and other regional partners, the report compared the 2019 consumption of Partially Hydrogenated Oil (PHOs) in Barbados with a counterfactual scenario in which PHOs were eliminated from the food supply. The study estimated that nine cardiovascular disease-related deaths are associated with not having a policy in place to ban PHOs from the food supply. Additionally, a national ban on the production or use of PHOs as an ingredient in all foods in 2019 would save more than half a million US Dollars ($546 246) in future productivity losses.
The workshop was organised in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency, the Healthy Caribbean Coalition, the University of the West Indies Faculty of Law at Cave Hill and Resolve to Save Lives. Six countries were represented at the meeting: Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Suriname.
END CONTACT: Lisa Bayley - bayleylis@paho.org, PAHO/WHO Office of the Subregional Program Coordination (Caribbean) About the Pan American Health Organisation: The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of its population. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health agency. It serves as the Regional Office of WHO for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the Inter-American system. The PAHO Subregional Program is responsible for providing subregional technical cooperation and to strengthen PAHO’s engagement with the Caribbean Subregional integration mechanisms, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and its various bodies and organs; and to build synergistic partnerships with the West Indies (UWI), among others. PAHO’s subregional technical cooperation specifically focuses on public health issues which would benefit from economies of scale and for which agreement on proposed collective responses and actions would produce a far greater impact rather than individual country responses. The Subregional Program also plays a role in coordinating among the different PAHO country offices.
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