Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer Ms. Arona Fahie-Forbes says Apiculture (bee keeping), rabbit production and poultry production have been identified as promising agricultural opportunities that can be promoted among youth at Jost Van Dyke. Photo: VINO

Some of the participants of the Farmers' Week activity in Jost Van Dyke today February 5, 2013. Photo: VINO

The Jost Van Dyke Pre and Primary school did the honours of singing the National Song and leading with the National Anthem. Photo: VINO

JVD farmer Marinly I. Chinnery gets overwhelming sales for her produce at the Farmers' Week exhibition in Jost Van Dyke on February 5, 2013. Photo: VINO

A patron cashing in on her supply of cassava bread, one of the popular products at the exhibition. Photo: VINO

A long line of the local produce that dominated the Farmers' Week exhibition at Jost Van Dyke. Photo: VINO

Coconuts, pumpkin and breadfruit were among the popular products at the Farmers' Week Exhibition in JVD. Photo: VINO

Officials from the agricultural sector and representatives of several corporate entities travelled to Jost Van Dyke to celebrate the national event being observed under the theme “Sustain ourselves and secure our future by training youths in agriculture”.

In the absence of several other senior government officials listed on the programme to address patrons, Mrs Fahie-Forbes said the development of sustainable farming systems demands a holistic approach that encompasses the best practices for growing profitable crops, livestock and poultry. It demands that the costs of production be reduced and productivity be maximized complementary with food safety regulation being adhered to, she told the gathering.

“Historically, agriculture was once thriving in these islands and we should honour our forefathers by continuing and sustaining agriculture in your Territory by using technology as an aid. We should also encourage others to plant and bring greenery back into the BVI,” Mrs Fahie-Forbes stated.

Three farmers from the island of Jost Van Dyke were recognised for their contributions in the sector over the past year. Receiving the Best Crop and Orchard Farmer’s award was Mr Kenneth Martin, for Best backyard and Livestock the award went to Mr Godwin Callwood and going away with the Best Mixed Farmer award was Ms Amiel Huggins.

The ceremony was a very simple one with the highlight being a dramatization of the state of farming on the island, the challenges posed to young and other prospective farmers and some possible solutions to the challenges.

The Jost Van Dyke Pre and Primary school did the honours of singing the National Song and leading with the National Anthem.