August 27, 2024
Dr. Carla N. Barnett
Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (Caricom)
I extend a warm invitation to the Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2024 (CWA 2024), to be held during the period 7 to 12 October in the picturesque Member State of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This year’s event, themed ‘Climate Smart Agriculture for a Sustainable Future’ is opportune, and recognises the urgency and our collective commitment to integrate sustainable practices to mitigate the effects of climate change on the agriculture and food systems.
At the start of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, a record-breaking weather system, Hurricane Beryl, profoundly impacted several CARICOM Member States, including our host country for CWA 2024, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The fisheries and agriculture sectors were severely affected in some countries.
The season is forecasted to be extremely active. Our Region must collaborate and prepare to protect food access and the livelihoods of our Caribbean people.
In alignment with the goals of CARICOM’s 25 by 2025 Initiative, CWA 2024 adopts a pragmatic approach, focusing on key climate change matters which are crucial to securing food, and increasing sustainable production, adaptation and mitigation. Seminars will focus on actions, solutions and innovative technologies to enhance the resilience and sustainability of agrifood systems against extreme weather events.
Participants in this seminal event are manifold will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, policymakers, and fellow practitioners, all dedicated to the growth, resilience and climate adaptation of Caribbean agriculture. Workshops, panel discussions, and field visits will provide hands-on experiences and insights into cutting-edge agricultural techniques, strategies and technologies tailored to our unique Caribbean context.
Moreover, this gathering will highlight the rich cultural heritage of our host nation, allowing participants to experience the hospitality and beauty that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has to offer. It is an occasion to celebrate not only our agricultural achievements, but also the spirit of cooperation and the resilience that define our Region.
Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2024 promises to be a milestone event in charting the future course of our agricultural sector. Your presence and participation are invaluable, as we work to cultivate a sustainable and prosperous future for all Caribbean nations.
I look forward to welcoming you in October, and to a productive and impactful event.
