Government Proposes Agro-Processing Facility to Support Pepper and Honey Production
The Government of Dominica has proposed the establishment of a dedicated agro-processing facility aimed at supporting honey producers, pepper sauce manufacturers and other value-added agricultural enterprises.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit disclosed the plans during a meeting with pepper farmers, processors and beekeepers, explaining that the proposed facility is intended to address producers’ most persistent challenges.
“Processing, bottling, storage, quality testing and compliance with standards all require facilities that many small producers, like you, cannot reasonably develop on your own.In response to this, I wish to inform you that Government is actively examining the establishment of a dedicated agro-processing facility. What we are saying is that for the beekeepers of Dominica we are prepared to build and equip a modern facility to facilitate your production, bottling and packaging of honey.
“We are saying the same thing to the pepper sauce producers, that we would like to build a national facility for your production and we are prepared to put the money into this at no cost to the producers,” Prime Minister Skerrit said.
Proprietor of Bee Natural, Terri Henry addressing forum
Prime Minister Skerrit said Government is also encouraging producers to consider forming producer companies for honey and pepper products, allowing farmers and beekeepers to cooperate in processing, bulk purchasing and marketing, while maintaining their independence as individual producers.
“There is no reason why Dominican pepper products and Dominican honey cannot become recognized and respected brands in the region and beyond. We have the soil, the climate, the biodiversity, and most importantly, the hardworking people to make it happen,” he said.
The initiative forms part of Government’s wider strategy to strengthen agro-processing, build recognizable Dominican brands, expand access to regional and international markets and create new employment opportunities within the agricultural value chain.
