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Message for World Food Day, 2023 from Honourable Johany ‘Jay’ Ebanks, MP, Minister of Planning, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure

Health Care 19 Oct, 2023 Follow News

Jay Ebanks

The theme for this year’s World Food Day, “Water is life, Water is food. Leave no one behind,” underscores the significant role water plays in shaping a global, resilient, and inclusive food system.

The Cayman Islands recognize the paramount importance of water in achieving food security for all.

Undoubtedly, our government, through the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, and Infrastructure, is committed to strengthening our local food systems by empowering our farmers, encouraging backyard food production, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring access to clean and potable water, as well as nutritious and affordable food for all.

In our nation of three small islands, we face unique challenges that demand innovative solutions.

Nonetheless, we have made significant progress in implementing the Cayman Islands Food and Nutrition Security Policy (CIFNSP), investing in agricultural infrastructure, providing technical support, and offering training opportunities for our farmers. The CIFNSP implementation has also empowered our young people with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the agricultural sector.

Recently, the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, and Infrastructure participated in the Caribbean Week of Agriculture to strengthen our regional collaborations and share insights into our initiatives. We understand that achieving the key outcomes of the CIFNSP, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (specifically goals 2, 3, and 6) which respectively addresses Zero Hunger, Good Health & Well-being, and Clean Water & Sanitation for all, requires collaboration.

Therefore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to partnerships with local communities, non-profit organizations, international organizations, and other stakeholders. By working together, sharing best practices, and leveraging resources and expertise, we can make greater strides toward sustainable conservation and consumption practices, innovative and efficient production, and responsible land management to ensure the long-term viability of our food production systems.

On this World Food Day, let us reflect on our individual and collective actions. Let us recommit ourselves to play our part in ensuring access to potable water and in building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems. Every step, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on our households, communities, and the world.

Together, let us be agents of change, leading the way toward a future that is food secure.

Happy World Food Day!


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