The latest assessment of the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica's agriculture sector places losses at just under J$29.5 billion (approximately US$191.8 million). Agriculture Minister Floyd Green said the country's most productive zones absorbed the greatest damage, with farmers and fishers losing crops, boats, and marine equipment.

According to the minister, "the up-to-date assessments put the financial loss of the agricultural sector at $29.5 billion." Domestic crop losses include about 32,400 hectares of vegetables, valued at J$8 billion (US$52 million) and affecting 47,500 farmers. Sweet pepper, tomato, lettuce, cabbage, carrot, and vine crops such as melon and cantaloupe experienced the most damage.

Banana and plantain production also recorded major losses. About 2,450 hectares were affected, with an estimated loss of J$2.9 billion (US$18.9 million) and 2,760 farmers impacted. "In fact, almost all our commercial banana and plantain crops have been negatively impacted," Minister Green said.

He added that Jamaica will likely turn to external suppliers to fill expected shortages of fruits and vegetables in the coming months.

The Agricultural Disaster Recovery Task Force, established after Hurricane Beryl, has been reactivated to coordinate assessments, relief, and recovery. The ministry said it will prioritise transparency, resource allocation, and timely support.

An immediate allocation of J$450 million (US$2.93 million) from the remaining production incentive programme has been redirected to emergency recovery, including replanting, restocking, and land preparation. This forms part of a larger J$3 billion (US$19.5 million) plan. Distribution of J$40 million (US$260,000) worth of seeds will begin this week through the RADA network across production areas.

Another J$80 million (US$520,000) has been allocated for emergency procurement, including J$50 million (US$325,000) for seeds and J$30 million (US$195,000) for agrochemicals. To support production recovery, the RADA tractor service will provide free land preparation for six months. Seeds and plant material from Bodles and RADA nurseries will be provided free of charge for three months.

The Ministry of Agriculture also estimates that bee farmers have experienced losses amounting to several million dollars due to the hurricane.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com