McKay, who is also the chairman of the Jamaica Honey Board, noted that Jamaica’s honey production is currently not at par with the country’s needs. He urged Jamaicans to consider beekeeping as a viable business opportunity. “We’re not producing enough to meet our needs. We’re importing honey. We’re importing food, and we could produce more ourselves. If you’re a beekeeper, you could contribute significantly to our national food security,” he said.

The Thriving Beekeeping Industry in Jamaica

Jamaica’s beekeeping industry is a vibrant and essential sector that contributes significantly to the country’s agricultural landscape. With around 200 dedicated beekeepers managing over 67,000 colonies, this industry plays a crucial role in the nation’s ecosystem and economy. ### The Role of Beekeepers Beekeepers in Jamaica are responsible for maintaining and nurturing these colonies, ensuring their health and productivity.

The funds will be distributed through the Department of Agriculture’s (DOA) Disaster Relief Fund, which is specifically designed to assist farmers affected by natural disasters. The allocation comes after a thorough assessment of the damage caused by Hurricane Beryl, which resulted in significant losses for farmers across the region. The storm caused extensive flooding, leading to crop destruction and infrastructure damage. Minister Green emphasized the importance of supporting the agricultural sector, which plays a vital role in the country’s economy.

Funding Boost for Bee Colony Restoration

The health of bee colonies is a critical concern for environmentalists and agriculturalists alike. Recognizing this, an additional $1.8 million has been allocated to support the restoration of these vital pollinators.