Clarendon poultry farmers get boost

When Hurricane Beryl ravaged parts of Jamaica last year, southern farmers were especially hit hard.

Among them was Diane McClune, a single mother of eight, who revealed that she lost her entire stock of 25 birds when Beryl destroyed her coop. But McClune is getting back on her feet, and recently received a major boost. McClune was among 30 Clarendon farmers who benefited from an initiative facilitated by Hi-Pro through Project STAR, aimed at strengthening small farming businesses. The farmers who benefited from the initiative are from Havanna Heights, Treadlight district, and Racetrack.

This is like restarting for me," said McClune. "I had to rebuild' my coop and buy back 25 birds after the hurricane. I recently sold those, and now I'm starting again with these 50 birds. Poultry farming helps me a lot, especially with my youngest child, who's still in school and heading to 11th grade this September." McClune emphasised that despite the challenges, resilience is key.

"You can't let things get you down. I'm grateful for this opportunity to restart and provide for my family."

The farmers benefited from a training session aimed at boosting income-generating capacities while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Hi-Pro's representatives shared tips on best practices in poultry production and practical advice on tackling common challenges. The Rural Agricultural Development Authority and the Jamaica Constabulary Force facilitated discussions on strategies to safeguard farmers' investments against praedial larceny. Another farmer, Sylvester Crawford of Treadlight district, said the donation comes in very handy.

"I'm not working otherwise, and I don't have a pension. I've been in poultry farming, and it has helped send all my kids to school. Now, it's just my wife and me, and things have been hard, so this support will go a far way," he said. Brenda Knight, another beneficiary, described the donation as a blessing.

"The 50 birds I received today, along with the feeding supplies, will allow me to extend my business and continue supporting my family," she said. Knight, who has been in poultry farming for four years, shared that her business provides for her 14-year-old son, who attends high school, while also helping to pay bills and put food on the table. Although she acknowledged the challenges of market fluctuations and competition, she commended the initiative for its role in empowering farmers.

"This initiative is helping young people and others to make a better living. It may not solve all our challenges, but it's a step in the right direction, and I appreciate the effort."

Antonette Bromfield, Hi-Pro's marketing manager, said that the brand was pleased to be on board.

"We want to ensure that we are equipping you with the necessary skills and the knowledge," she said of the training session. "[Our presence here] shows you how committed we are, how long we're doing this, the expertise that we have, and the knowledge." Randy Hayle, senior economic development lead at Project STAR, said this initiative goes beyond farming.

"It's about fostering resilience and equipping farmers to reach their full potential," Hayle remarked.