The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and the CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to boost the Caribbean’s agri-food resilience and cut import reliance.
This pioneering agreement with the 15-nation bloc aims to support CARICOM’s agri-food initiatives, including building upon the grouping’s visionary ‘25 by 2025’ agri-food import displacement strategy.
Sustainable agriculture and food security
ICRISAT, a global leader in dryland crop science and agriculture, will provide frontier research and technical expertise, while the CPSO, a key actor in regional economic transformation, will leverage its networks and expertise to apply the science-led innovations that strengthen agriculture and improve livelihoods across the region.
Dr Stanford Blade, director general-interim of ICRISAT underscored the transformative potential of the partnership and its role in driving innovation to tackle the Caribbean’s unique food security challenges:
“As a region highly vulnerable to climate change, CARICOM requires sustainable solutions to enhance domestic food production and agricultural resilience.
“This partnership is a pivotal step toward addressing these challenges—paving the way for collaboration in agricultural innovation, knowledge exchange, and training programs that align with the region’s agricultural priorities,” said Dr Blade.
Research and Innovation: Facilitating scientific exchange, material sharing, and joint research initiatives to improve crop productivity and resilience.
Private Sector Engagement: Mobilizing private sector investment and partnerships to scale up agricultural innovations and improve market access for farmers.
Capacity Building: Developing training programs to enhance the skills of farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in sustainable agricultural practices.
Regional and Global Collaboration: Strengthening ties with CGIAR entities and other stakeholders in Latin America and the Caribbean to amplify impact and explore joint funding opportunities.
Dr Patrick Antoine, CEO and technical director of CPSO said the organization welcomes this strategic partnership with ICRISAT, which aligns seamlessly with the CARICOM Heads of Government’s vision for a more self-reliant and sustainable region.
“In leveraging ICRISAT’s expertise in agriculture, we can build much-needed resilience and fuel growth in the agri-food sector—creating lasting impact for farmers, businesses, and communities across the Caribbean region,” said Dr Antoine.
The MoU will remain in effect for three years, with provisions for review and renewal to ensure its continued relevance and impact. The partnership underscores both entities’ shared commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and enhancing food security in the Caribbean.
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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