JEP Group advances agri recovery through farmer training initiative

Jamaica Energy Partners (JEP) Group has advanced its Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts with a recent targeted agricultural training initiative aimed at strengthening resilience among farmers in St Elizabeth.

Seventeen farmers from the Malvern community, home to JEP’s affiliate company InterEnergy Jamaica Wind, participated in a Drip Irrigation and Water Harvesting training session, delivered in partnership with the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and Jamaica 4-H Clubs. The programme provided hands-on instruction in climate-smart agricultural practices and led to certification at NVQJ Levels 1 and 2.

In addition to technical training, participants received starter kits including water storage tanks, seeds and ground provisions, enabling them to immediately apply the techniques learned. The initiative represents an investment of J$1.58 million in supporting sustainable farming and livelihood recovery.

Melissa Newman, director of corporate affairs, shared values and marketing at JEP Group, highlighted the deeper impact of the initiative on farming communities.

“We know that for many of these farmers, this is more than just farming, it’s their livelihood, their families and their future,” said Newman. “So, it was important for us to go beyond immediate relief and provide practical support they can use right away to rebuild, grow and feel confident moving forward.”

The training forms part of JEP Group’s broader Phase 2 recovery strategy, which focuses on long-term rebuilding and sustainability in communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

Participating farmer, Learie Jones, welcomed the initiative, saying, “I believe training like these are very important for farmers as with climate change and all the changes in agriculture, we need to keep abreast with new technologies to help us produce more, more effective with our fertilisation and production.”

JEP Group will continue to expand its Phase 2 recovery efforts through additional initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to community development across Jamaica.