Sean Paul champions food security

International dancehall superstar Sean Paul is putting his star power behind the use of technology in agriculture to enhance food security.

The Dutty Rock hitmaker has given the thumbs up to Ricardo Chambers of Chambers Hydro Farm in Trelawny, who has been focused on empowering everyday Jamaicans to grow smarter and live more sustainably.

Sean Paul's passion for agriculture isn't new. Through the Sean Paul Foundation, he has long championed food security and community empowerment. In 2020, the foundation partnered with Food For The Poor Jamaica to provide rainwater harvesting systems to small farmers across the island.

"I've always had an interest in farming and growing my own food; it is something to do in my pastime," Sean Paul shared.

Chambers, an Olympian, has been revolutionising agriculture through hydroponic farming. In addition to cultivating vegetables, the retired quarter-miler has been constructing several hydroponic units across the island. His work has caught the eyes of Sean Paul.

"When I heard about Chambers Hydro Farm and the work Ricardo is doing, I didn't need convincing. This is what sustainable development should look like - innovative, community-based and grounded in straightforward solutions," he said.

Supporting efforts like Chambers Hydro Farm is a natural extension of Sean Paul's ongoing mission to help Jamaicans grow what they eat and take control of their food future.

"I think, as an island and with everything happening in the world, families, not only those in farming communities, should consider growing their own food," the Grammy-winning artiste said.

Chambers, meanwhile, is encouraged by the growing interest in hydroponic farming -- even among non-traditional farmers.

"Sean Paul, for example, started with Romaine and iceberg lettuce, kale, arugula, scallion, pepper and strawberries. The system we set up for him can grow up to 500 plants, and he's so passionate about it. The good thing is, when he is travelling, he doesn't have to worry about it," Chambers said.