Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley says the Hope Agricultural Training Institute at Hope Plantation, St Lucy will play a critical role in strengthening Barbados’ food security, climate resilience and public health.
Speaking at the handover ceremony for the China-funded facility, Mottley stressed that modern agricultural training, access to water and innovation were essential as the country confronts climate change and rising rates of diabetes and kidney disease.
She also announced that 100 acres of land would be made available to young people for agricultural production, while government moved ahead with plans for a desalination plant anchored by the Barbados Water Authority, as well as opportunities for Barbadians to invest and benefit.
The facility was constructed under grant funding of BDS $40 million from the People’s Republic of China.
The Prime Minister thanked the Government and people of China for their continued partnership, describing the institute as a major step toward a more resilient, sustainable and healthier Barbados. (TRY)
