In an effort to increase household-level food security and sustainable gardening in the Cayman Islands, the Ministry of Agriculture has announced the launch of a backyard gardening pilot programme.
“We believe food security begins at home,” said Minister for Agriculture Jay Ebanks in a press release issued on 31 July. “By equipping individuals and families with the tools to grow even a small portion of their own produce, we’re investing in a more resilient, self-sufficient future.”
The Backyard Garden Programme, which will be delivered in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, provides participating households with free grow boxes, soil, seeds, basic guidance to start their own backyard garden and ongoing support to sustain long-term food production. The programme is a grant-funded initiative fully facilitated by the ministry.
The initiative aligns with Cayman Islands Food and Nutrition Security Policy, which aims to enhance dietary diversity, economic resilience and sustainability, while simultaneously addressing seasonal shortages and promoting self-sufficiency.
“The program targets a wide range of Caymanians — from retirees and families to urban residents and eco-conscious youth,” the press release stated.
In total, the pilot programme will support 210 non-commercial and potential agriculture producers across all three Cayman Islands. Some of the seeds that will be provided include cucumbers, plum tomatoes, squash, callaloo, pak choi and sweet peppers.
To be eligible for the programme, applicants must have an area to accommodate a 5-foot by 3-foot grow box; have the ability to transport the grow box to their home; consent to an inspection of the area where the grow box will be placed; and, if approved, register under the Farmers Identification Registration Programme.
The application period opened on 31 July and will remain open until all grow boxes have been allocated. A ministry spokeswoman said the applications are expected to be reviewed and processed within 7-10 working days.
The application form can be accessed directly here. For more information, visit the Ministry of Agriculture website or contact the Department of Agriculture at [email protected].
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