The development and use of agro-processing techniques in the quest to diversify the island’s agriculture sector and add value to locally-grown produce has advanced yet again, with the commissioning of an agro-processing plant in Babonneau.

The facilities are under the command of the Saint Lucian Network of Rural Women (Babonneau cluster).

The agro-proccessing plant will assist with product research and development for transforming local produce into value-added agricultural products. The plant will also provide training and technical assistance, as well as support the transfer of technology for agri-business development to improve income generation and food security.

President of the Babonneau cluster of the Saint Lucian Network of Rural Women Producers, Louisa Anthony, underscored the benefits provided by the plant to the residents of Babonneau and its environs, as well as the national economy.

“This facility is an asset to boost and grow business for our members and the wider community of agro-processors. We have mapped out a working business plan in a number of areas for generating revenue from the operation of the facility; and we have reached an agreement on the importance of actively creating space for all interested persons to work with us here.”

Indicating that this new investment signals opportunities, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Physical Planning Natural Resources and Co-operatives, Hon. Ezechiel Joseph, challenges the people of Babonneau to utilize the plant efficiently.

“I have the fullest confidence that this facility will be utilized. I’m happy in the way it was constructed so as to meet international standards because our products have that potential. There were some teething problems, but we were able to overcome these challenges to ensure that this facility got the certification that it deserves to allow us to export.”

The agro-processing plant was funded by the Banana Industry Trust at an estimated cost of EC$500,000.