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Regional E-Agriculture for the Caribbean – A Post COVID-19 Mechanism to Promote Resilient Agri-Food - TCP/SLC/3808

Year of publication 2024

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 8

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Project

Synopsis (short abstract) The Caribbean region faces significant challenges due to the shifting global economic environment and climate change. Recognizing the critical role of digital transformation in addressing these issues and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has developed a regional information and communications technology (ICT) strategy and roadmap to promote socio-economic development and resilience. Over the past two decades, the Caribbean has made notable progress in ICT infrastructure, coverage, affordability, and internet access, positioning itself well to leverage digital solutions in various sectors, including agriculture. However, the adoption of e-agriculture—ICT applications in the agricultural sector—has been slow, delayed by disparities in ICT access between urban and rural areas, a lack of regional governance frameworks, and limited awareness among farmers. Several Caribbean countries have begun developing national ICT and e-agriculture policies, such as Saint Kitts and Nevis, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, Grenada, and the Commonwealth of Dominica. Despite these efforts, barriers like limited knowledge, insufficient educational capacity, and lack of pilot projects and support systems persist.

Language English

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