IICA 2024 Accountability Seminar by Brent Simon & Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) held their 2024 Accountability Seminar at the Department of the Environment Conference Room on Tuesday 24th September.
Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture was the master of ceremony and he delivered the welcome remarks. The event’s programme included remarks from Mr. Walter Christopher/Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Gregg C. E. Rawlins/IICA ECS Representative, and the Honourable Anthony Smith/Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy.
Other agenda items included benefactors’ testimonials of IICA’s support these were conveyed by Mr. Itahjah Simmons/Farmer and Mr. Jerome Scotland/Beekeeper representing “Yes Honey Antigua and Barbuda”. Additionally, Mrs. June Jackson/Director of the Gilbert Agricultural Rural Development Centre (GARDC) made a presentation on the Vetiver Grass Project that was funded and supported by IICA.
Mr. Craig Thomas/IICA National Specialist, presented the IICA 2023 Annual Report to the forum. He made special emphasis on the need for an agricultural plan for the country that would survive the changes in governmental leaderships and administrative changes. He reiterated the need for continuity, the need for bridging the gaps within the ministry, and also the need for agricultural scholarships.
The floor was then opened for comments and questions which were facilitated by Permanent Secretary Christopher and Director Bailey.
The seminar climaxed with the official presentation of the annual reports to the Minister Smith and other dignitaries to include members of the Chinese Embassy.
The vote of thanks was rendered by Mrs. MaudVere Bradford/Senior Research Officer, and closing remarks by Director Bailey.
IICA should be very proud of all its achievements, the synergies and collaborations which afforded its successes for years on end. Additionally, management of Ministry of Agriculture is pleased to be associated with such a prestigious organization and highly commend the paramount work that has been contributed towards Food Security and the advancement of the sector.