“The Caribbean Real-Time Food Security Monitoring Dashboard is more than just a tool; it is a symbol of resilience and determination to foster a food-secure future for the Community. While the platform monitors food security, we remain committed to the broader goal of achieving food and nutrition security for the Region. I look forward to seeing the invaluable insights from the Dashboard, as we work to strengthen our agri-food systems and advance the well-being of CARICOM citizens.” – Dr. Carla Barnett, CARICOM Secretary-General
Mr. Brian Bogart, Representative and Country Director, World Food Programme Caribbean Multi-Country Office;
- Dr. Wendell Samuel, Senior Economic Adviser to the Secretary-General and Acting Assistant Secretary-General, Economic Integration, Innovation and Development
- Representatives from Member States, the private sector, and the farming sector
- Members of the Media;
- Distinguished Guests;
- Ladies and Gentlemen.
I join in welcoming you to this virtual launch event for the Caribbean Real-Time Food Security Monitoring Dashboard.
As the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) continues its collective efforts to enhance food and nutrition security across our Region, this innovative platform is expected to play a significant role in providing real-time data on key food security indicators. This will be a significant game-changer as, despite the commendable achievements of the Region’s 25% by 2025 initiative, food insecurity remains a critical issue, as food shortages have resulted from weather-related events, and food price inflation has affected the livelihoods and well-being of millions.
CARICOM Heads of Government have agreed to extend the 25 by 2025 initiative to 2030. This will allow for, among other things, increased stakeholder participation and greater investment.
The launch of this Dashboard demonstrates ongoing commitment to action on regional food and nutrition security. Real-time data on key food security indicators will equip Member States with tools they need to make informed decisions and implement effective policies. Member States will also be able to monitor trends and vulnerabilities, and respond swiftly to emerging threats.
Furthermore, the availability of analytical reports every three months will provide a comprehensive understanding of the food security landscape. These reports will be accessible to all users of the data, fostering transparency, and enabling the tracking of progress towards collective goals.
I am pleased to note that most CARICOM Member States are already participating on this platform – Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Your collaboration and commitment are crucial to the success of this initiative.
I extend gratitude to the World Food Programme for the invaluable partnership and support to this initiative. Their expertise and resources have been instrumental in bringing this Dashboard to fruition, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration to achieve the shared goal of ensuring that no one in the Region goes hungry.
Distinguished guests, the Caribbean Real-Time Food Security Monitoring Dashboard is more than just a tool; it is a symbol of resilience and determination to foster a food-secure future for the Community. While the platform monitors food security, we remain committed to the broader goal of achieving food and nutrition security for the Region. I look forward to seeing the invaluable insights from the Dashboard, as we work to strengthen our agri-food systems and advance the well-being of CARICOM citizens.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.
