The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry has launched the first phase of its “Ginger Production Drive” under the Spice Replanting Programme, signalling its commitment to revitalising the nation’s spice industry.
The initiative aims to increase local ginger production and make ginger more affordable on the local market, according to Chief Extension Officer Lauren St Louis. To support the programme, the ministry has invested in the importation of 15,000 pounds of ginger planting material. Ginger has long held its own as a prized spice and desirable crop due to its recognised health benefits and growing consumer demand.
St Louis explained that selected farmers will benefit from this initial phase of the programme. Under its terms, participating farmers are expected to support the ministry’s drive by providing planting material from their first harvest for use in the next phase of the project.
The programme’s long-term objective is to increase the supply of locally grown ginger and reduce market prices, making this vital spice more accessible to households and agro-processors. To help ensure the success of the programme, the ministry will provide training to participating farmers in best agricultural practices. The training will cover the proper preparation and treatment of ginger rhizomes before planting, recommended spacing and planting density, and crop management techniques designed to minimise fungal diseases as the crop develops.
With the Government of Grenada continuing to invest in agricultural development through the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Forestry, officials remain optimistic about the programme’s outcomes.
“In return, we are encouraging our farmers to lower their prices so that the average person can afford the local food,” St Louis said.
The ginger will be cultivated on agricultural plots of at least half an acre as the ministry works toward strengthening local production and supporting the long-term growth of Grenada’s spice industry.
Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, and Forestry
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