ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, January 24th, 2012 – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Department of Agriculture are finalising preparations to host their annual Farmers’ Week celebrations marking their 20 year milestone. This year’s activities will be held under the theme, ‘Celebrating 20 Years of BVI Culture through Agriculture’ and is slated for February 10 to 17.
Chief Agricultural Officer Mr. Bevin Braithwaite speaking to the Department of Information and Public Relations said, “Celebrating 20 years of Farmers’ Week in the territory is a big achievement for the Department of Agriculture.”
Mr. Braithwaite went on to explain that it would not have been possible to achieve this milestone without the hardworking stalwarts, who tilled the soil to ensure that food was available for their families and the Territory, while at the same time maintaining the culture of the BVI.
“We thank the Government for their unwavering support, agricultural stakeholders and supporters and the past and present staff of the Department of Agriculture,” Mr. Brathwaite expressed.
“The highlight of this year’s celebration is the recognition of our farmers who have made a significant contribution to the sector over this period,” according to Mr. Braithwaite.
The Chief Agricultural Officer continued, “This annual observance is geared to increase agriculture in the Territory and highlight the work of local farmers as they display and market their livestock, produce, crafts and preserves.”
Mr. Braithwaite added that, “This is the time when the Department of Agriculture demonstrates their commitment to the continued growth and development of the agricultural industry throughout the Territory.”
“I encourage the public to participate and attend all activities in support of farmers and the agricultural industry,” stated Mr. Braithwaite.
Registration for the field crop, poultry and livestock competitions is now opened to all farmers. Interested farmers are asked to register before January 17, as judging of these competitions will be held from January 18 to 31. Registration can be done by telephone or by visiting the department’s office.
The activities will open with a ceremony on the grounds of the Department of Agriculture at Paraquita Bay on Friday, February 10 at 10 am, where Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Dr. the Honourable Kedrick Pickering will declare the week open. Cultural shows and exhibits will be held that weekend on the Paraquita Bay grounds on February 11 and 12.
Agricultural exhibitions will then be staged on the sister islands of Anegada, Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda on February 13, 14 and 16, respectively.
The week’s activities conclude with a grand food fair at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park on Friday, February 17 from 10 a.m. until.
The Department of Agriculture and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour work collaboratively on the sustainable development of the agricultural industry in the Territory. Farmers’ Week is held annually in support of local farmers and aims to heighten public awareness of the importance of agriculture to the Territory.
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