11th Tephritid Workers of Western Hemisphere (TWWH) Meeting in Kingston, Jamaica: A Collaborative Approach to Combatting Fruit Fly Pests by Shenequa Williams
From June 3rd to 7th, 2024, Kingston, Jamaica, hosted the 11th Tephritid Workers of Western Hemisphere (TWWH) Meeting. This significant event, set against the backdrop of the Caribbean’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty, was more than just a gathering of experts; it was a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the persistent and pervasive issue of fruit fly pests that threaten fruit and vegetable production and exports in the region.
The primary purpose of the TWWH meeting was to facilitate the active participation of personnel from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and CARICOM Member States. These regions are particularly vulnerable to the economic and agricultural impact of fruit fly infestations. The meeting aimed to bolster human resources and institutional capacities in the Caribbean for applying nuclear technology to agriculture, water resource management, and environmental protection.
The meeting served as a fertile ground for the exchange of information, knowledge, ideas, and experiences among participants. This exchange was critical for feedback and innovation in research, development of methods, and action programs aimed at controlling fruit fly populations.
Among the notable attendees were Dr. Janil Gore-Francis/Chief Plant Protection Officer and Mrs. Kishma Primus-Ormond/Senior Plant Protection Officer whose expertise and contributions were invaluable. Their participation underscored the importance of regional cooperation and the role of skilled professionals in addressing agricultural challenges.
The TWWH meeting aimed to enhance human resources and institutional capacity by equipping regional personnel with advanced nuclear technology techniques, and improving agriculture, water resources, and environmental management. This initiative was expected to have long-lasting benefits, fostering resilience and sustainability in the face of ongoing agricultural challenges.
The 11th TWWH meeting in Kingston was a landmark event, poised to make substantial contributions to the fight against fruit fly pests in the Caribbean and beyond. Through collaborative efforts, information exchange, and capacity building, the meeting aimed to create a sustainable and effective framework for managing fruit fly populations, thus securing the agricultural future of the region. As participants gathered in Kingston, the spirit of cooperation and innovation undoubtedly drove the event’s success, paving the way for a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.

