By Kojo

During the recent celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s 62nd Independence anniversary in Ajax, Ontario, Minister Avinash G. Singh, who serves in the country’s Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, shared insights into the government’s ongoing initiatives aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector and supporting youth involvement in farming.

Minister Singh, a seasoned member of the People’s National Movement (PNM) with a political career spanning over a decade, has been at the forefront of various agricultural projects. Reflecting on his tenure, Singh highlighted the government’s commitment to reducing the nation’s dependence on imported food through a series of innovative youth-driven programs.

“The government has introduced numerous programs designed to encourage young people to enter the agricultural sector,” Singh said. Among these is the Youth Agricultural Homestead Programme, which aims to integrate 1,500 young farming families into Trinidad’s economy by 2025. The initiative provides participants with a two-acre plot of land, a starter home, and a $20,000 grant to kickstart their agricultural ventures.

Additionally, the Ministry has launched the Youth Aquaculture Project, focusing on sustainable practices such as tilapia and shrimp farming, and the Youth Greenhouse Project, inspired by similar initiatives in Guyana. These programs are not only aimed at increasing local food production but also at empowering young people by providing them with the necessary skills and resources.

Singh emphasized the importance of food security, particularly in light of the CARICOM region’s goal to reduce food import bills by 25% by 2025. “We must go back to our roots, growing and consuming our local produce. This shift is crucial for both our economy and our health,” he stated.

The Minister also addressed the significant role that the Caribbean diaspora plays in bridging cultural gaps and contributing to the global community. Singh expressed pride in the achievements of Caribbean nationals in Canada, acknowledging their contributions to various sectors and their representation of Caribbean culture abroad.

As Trinidad and Tobago continues to navigate its path towards self-sufficiency in food production, Minister Singh’s initiatives reflect a broader effort to strengthen the nation’s agricultural foundation while fostering a sense of pride and resilience among the youth. His visit to Canada not only celebrated his country’s independence but also reinforced the enduring connections between the Caribbean and its diaspora communities.