Grand Bahama Agribusiness Expo 2015 Set for March 27 and 28

By Lewis Astwood
Bahamas Information Services

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – The Grand Bahama Agribusiness Expo 2015 was officially launched during a press conference, Wednesday, by Ms. Brenda Colebrooke, administrator for West Grand Bahama, at the Ministry for Local Government.

The Expo is scheduled for March 27th and 28th at the Goombay Park site, behind the International Bazaar.

According to Ms. Colebrooke, “We are very excited about hosting this event given the renewed interest the Government of The Bahamas is placing on agriculture in The Bahamas and cutting our dependency on imports.

“The creation of the Bahamas Agricultural and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) at North Andros is a prime example of the Government’s commitment to growing that sector of the economy.”

She further stated that with the large volume of food imported millions of dollars are spent and more needs to be done locally to feed residents and visitors.

“This Agribusiness Expo is an important and necessary event that underscores the goal of the Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Local Government in promoting the agricultural, marine resources and agribusiness sector towards enhancing food security within The Bahamas.

“I think many of us will recall the food shortage crisis that affected us after the more recent hurricanes and other global events, which also heightened the need for food security.
“Like our Prime Minister has said, making strides toward food security in the 21st century is a necessity, not a luxury.

“Agribusiness in The Bahamas consists primarily of commercial farming, for example, crop farming, livestock, chicken and egg production and horticulture. The fishing industry and food process sectors are also included under the umbrella of Agriculture.”

Acknowledging interest from schools and some homeowners, Ms. Colebrooke added that those involved in the farming and livestock industries are encouraged to participate and display their goods.

It is hoped the Minister for Agriculture, Marine Resources and Local Government, the Hon. V. Alfred Gray, will be present for the opening ceremonies. Locally-produced food and beverages will be on sale.

Speakers for the event will address the following areas: organic farming, crop growing, backyard farming, ornamental production and more. Added to the list of activities will be an Adult Culinary Competition, and one for high school students.

“Already, a lot of planning has gone into the event, and Committee members have been meeting over the past three weeks. I wish to advise that the committee is made up of persons from throughout Grand Bahama, thus encouraging the active participation of all residents on Grand Bahama.”

Also present during the press conference were: Deborah Cox-Strachan, Administrator for East Grand Bahama; Barbara Colebrooke, Administrator for West Grand Bahama; Lady Naomi Wallace-Whitfield, co-chairperson for Agribusiness Expo; and Chervita Campbell, Chief Councillor for the City of Freeport.