Essex Valley agro-processing facility
A new UK-supported agro-processing facility has opened in Essex Valley, St. Elizabeth, in a move aimed at strengthening Jamaica's food security and climate-resilient agriculture.
The British Government contributed $7.57 billion toward the project, which was officially opened Wednesday by Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness and Agriculture Minister Floyd Green, along with representatives of the Caribbean Development Bank and the UK.
The facility is part of the wider UK Caribbean Infrastructure Fund and is one of the largest UK investments in Jamaica's agriculture sector.
The Essex Valley Agricultural Development Project includes more than 800 hectares of irrigated farmland, upgraded farm roads, solar-powered irrigation systems and new food safety facilities across the valley.
UK Development Representative Andrew Bowden noted that the infrastructure withstood Hurricane Melissa, highlighting its climate resilience.
More than 600 farmers — including women, youth and persons with disabilities — have also received training under the project.
Officials say the new facility will help farmers store, process and market produce more efficiently, strengthening livelihoods in Jamaica's agricultural heartland.
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