World Food Day is calling for global solidarity to help all populations. It aims to help, especially the most vulnerable to recover from the crisis and to make food systems more resilient and robust. In doing so, communities can withstand increasing volatility and climate shocks, deliver affordable and sustainable healthy diets for all, and decent livelihoods for food system workers.

Dominica – A Sustainable Island

The aspiration of the people and the government of the Commonwealth of Dominica is to transition into a sustainable island. Recently, participating representatives from partner agencies across the region, the Partnership Initiative on Sustainable Land Management (PISLM), officially launched it’s Sustainable Land Management (SLM) collaboration with the Inter American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA). This collaboration will see the implementation of programs and training activities for farmers in five parishes in Dominica and the employment of SLM technologies by technical personnel of the Division of Agriculture. These efforts are expected to impact agricultural output and support market access positively.

The Ministry of Agriculture and the Blue and Green Economy has also begun backyard gardens in its recently unveiled Coronavirus Food Security Programme.

This initiative, guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, concentrates on food production as an apparatus to prepare, mitigate and respond to and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic with particular emphasis on national food security.

Over 1,700 locals with backyard gardens have registered to grow their food with support from the Ministry of Agriculture and National Food Security, which says the distribution of seedlings will be ramped up in the coming weeks.

The programme began with large farmers but is now looking to put fresh, nutritious produce closer to homes.

This farmer is doing great with her backyard garden in the Morne Daniel area!!!! Photo credit: Mrs Tatiana Green-Laville

Posted by Division of Agriculture Dominica on Tuesday, 30 June 2020

Prime Minister Skerrit Delivers Food to Vulnerable Dominicans

Shops have been operating with limited hours during the pandemic, which has resulted in food being less accessible to the population. In a move to safeguard the wellbeing of the people of his country, Prime Minister Skerrit has ensured the delivery of food packages to vulnerable households.

Many residents have received their food parcels packaged in reusable jute and cotton bags that have recently replaced plastic bags in the “Go Green Dominica” initiative launched earlier this year.

Image credit: WIC News

Read also: Dominica the first climate resilient nation on earth

Live – Work – Nourish

Life is about balance and finding the right balance between work, fun and health is imperative. Visitors and residents of the Nature Isle are encouraged to adopt the Caribbean way of life, which is deeply rooted in caring for the natural environment, by choosing locally-grown organic produce.

No matter what you choose to eat, Dominica offers an authentic adventure for the culinary inclined. With wholesome fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, bread, and exotic fish, you’re sure to find something that delights your taste buds.

To dine in Dominica is to dine amongst friends. Nowhere is the welcoming nature of our people on better display than in our restaurants. Nearly all are owned and operated by families, and they will make you feel right at home. In addition to delectable meals, you can expect a serving of lively conversation with your hosts, free of charge.

Dominique Heusdens