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| Grenada's Prime Minister Tillman Thomas said there was a compelling need to rebuild the nutmeg and cocoa industries. (Photo: Joshua Yetman - http://flickr.com/photos/joshy55013/2653019259/) | |
ST GEORGE'S, Grenada, January 2, 2009 - Grenada's Prime Minister Tillman Thomas says improving the agriculture sector will be a priority in 2009 as the country seeks to not only pull through the global economic slowdown, but also prepare for the opportunities that will emerge when the world rebounds from the crisis.
He told citizens in his New Year's message that the country must utilise its resources and become more innovative, more resilient and productive. Noting that the current economic situation has prompted other countries and institutions to become more prudent, reformulate plans, readjust budgets and attempt to become more efficient and productive, Prime Minister Thomas noted that there may be less assistance, grants and foreign aid available.
"This also means that as a country, we must look inwards and begin to do things better," he said.
"In 2009 we must strengthen our productive sectors like agriculture. We must begin to supplement our income by eating what we grow and growing what we eat. We must ensure that we lower our food import bill by utilising what we have in Grenada and finding ways to process the extras and export it to other countries, especially to our friends and family in the Diaspora."
Additionally, Mr Thomas said there was a compelling need to rebuild the nutmeg and cocoa industries.
"Our replanting programme must be accelerated if we are to regain our competitive edge and benefit from our tested competence and market dominance," he said.
The Grenadian leader added that creative ways must also be found to strengthen the link between the agriculture and tourism sectors: "Grenada must become known for our spicy local cuisine, our friendliness and hospitality and our unique local heritage. The total Grenada experience must be unforgettable and enduring," he insisted.
"Similarly during the year 2009, we must begin to pursue the various market niches as identified by our export strategy and to further build our productive base."
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