RADA Partners with Spice Farmers to Boost Production

by Contributed
(Kingston, Jamaica)

The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) has been collaborating with Jamaican farmers who cultivate turmeric, ginger, and pimento to implement findings from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food for Progress Jamaica Spices (JaSPICE) project. This initiative aims to enhance crop quality and increase production.

Vaughn Barnaby, RADA’s Director for Strategic Planning and Projects, shared that the five-year JaSPICE project is now in its extension phase, focusing on transferring new research-based knowledge to farmers.

“Extension refers to the process where we take research insights and apply them with the farmers. RADA collaborates with the project, translating research findings into practical training for farmers through capacity-building sessions. These sessions, known as the ‘farmer field school,’ have proven to be the most effective approach,” Barnaby explained.

Barnaby highlighted that these sessions involve farmers meeting weekly with extension officers to gain insights on various aspects of crop production.

“Information is shared on topics from crop site selection, choosing planting materials, and land preparation, all the way through to harvesting and post-harvest management. This approach ensures that farmers acquire relevant knowledge at every stage of the production process,” he said.

The ‘farmer field school’ also educates farmers on plant disease identification and the best intervention practices for protecting their crops.

“Research guides us on when and how to intervene for maximum effectiveness. Different pathogens require interventions at specific times based on their life cycles. This means strategic action is needed, rather than indiscriminate spraying,” Barnaby pointed out.

Barnaby emphasized that research on disease management within the JaSPICE project plays a vital role in ensuring crops are fit for the market.

“As we move towards post-harvest handling, it is important to ensure that produce reaching the market is free from pest management issues. The main challenge we face with ginger, for example, is rhizome rot, which reduces productivity and market appeal,” he said.

The knowledge shared through the JaSPICE project is expected to yield substantial economic benefits for the spice sector.

“With research-driven interventions, farmers are seeing increased productivity and higher yields per acre. This translates to better profits and contributes to the sustainability of rural livelihoods. Extension services are crucial for achieving this,” Barnaby concluded.

- JIS
Posted: November 8, 2024

Reference(s):
The Jamaica Observer. https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2024/11/09/rada-working-spice-farmers-improve-crop-production/

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