Additional rainfall could exacerbate crop losses. Pexels image by Thái Trường Giang
Santo Domingo.- Dominican Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz reported that around 650 kilometers of rural roads—mainly in the highlands where premium coffee is grown—were severely damaged by Tropical Storm Melissa. The destruction of these inter-parcel roads has disrupted access to essential supplies and complicated the transport of harvested crops. Cruz noted that restoring rural logistics is now a government priority.
To address the crisis, the Ministry of Agriculture—supported by President Luis Abinader—has prepared a support plan for affected producers. The measures include direct financial aid, the distribution of certified seeds and seedlings, the continuation of mass planting programs covering over 707,000 tareas (around 1,000 acres), and the acceleration of emergency repairs to rural infrastructure and roads. Cruz emphasized that these initiatives aim to protect food security and sustain agricultural productivity through the end of the year.
Despite the storm’s impact, the minister reassured that the Dominican Republic maintains over 85% food sovereignty. He confirmed sufficient production levels for key items such as chicken, eggs, and rice—highlighting that local output continues to exceed domestic demand. However, Cruz cautioned that saturated soils remain a concern, and additional rainfall could exacerbate crop losses. Still, the government’s immediate interventions and preparedness signal resilience in safeguarding the agricultural sector and ensuring national food supply stability.
