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FAO Partners with Barbados to Build a High-Performance, Sustainable Agricultural Sector

02 April 2024

A person shaking hands with another person while holding a blue book in the centre — Caption: Barbados Minister of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security, Indar Weir, (right) smiles as he accepts a copy of the FAO publication "Fish: Know it, cook it, eat it" from FAO Assistant Director General, Manuel Barange. The gift followed their recent courtesy call at the Ministry of Agriculture, where they discussed initiatives to promote sustainable fisheries and healthy eating habits in Barbados.

Photo: © FAO Caribbean/Randy Brooks

UN's FAO & Barbados team up to transform agriculture sector for sustainability & excellence.

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 Sharing

Minister 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.

A group of people sitting around a table — Caption: Personnel of the Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Nutritional Security around the room listen to Minister Indar Weir, as FAO Country Representative Juan Cheaz (in white), FAO Assistant Director General Manuel Barange, and Dr Yvette Diei-Ouadi, FAO fishery and aquaculture officer look on.

Photo: © FAO/Randy Brooks

"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 Agriculture

A 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 Resources

Recognizing 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.