DOMINICAN FARMER KEVORN VIDAL NAMED CARICOM YOUTH FARMER OF THE YEAR AT CARIBBEAN WEEK OF AGRICULTURE IN ST. VINCENT

Kevorn Vidal, one of Dominica‟s most innovative and enterprising young farmers, has been named the CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year at the 18th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The award recognizes outstanding young farmers across the Caribbean who are driving

sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to regional food security.

The Caribbean Week of Agriculture, an annual event that brings together key decision-

makers from the public and private sectors, focuses on the importance of agriculture

and rural livelihoods to the region's economic, social and environmental stability. This

year's event being held from October 7-11 is centered on the theme, „Climate Smart

Agriculture for a Sustainable Future.‟

Dominica's Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, Hon. Roland

Royer expressed his pride in Mr. Vidal‟s accomplishment.

“This is a proud moment for Dominica. The Government of Dominica congratulates

Kevorn for this outstanding achievement. This prestigious award not only recognizes his personal dedication, innovation and commitment to agriculture, but also highlights the vast potential of Dominica‟s agricultural sector.”

Mr. Vidal, who farms a diverse range of tree crops, vegetables and fruits in the village of Salisbury on Dominica's West Coast, incorporates modern technology and digital tools into his operations. He also utilizes climate-adaptive and environmentally sustainable practices including greenhouse technology, irrigation systems, water collection tanks, storm drains and buffer zones.

As an advocate for youth engagement in agriculture, both nationally and regionally, Mr.

Vidal is actively involved with the National Association of Youth in Agriculture in

Dominica. His excellence was previously recognized when he was named the Dominica

Youth Farmer of the Year 2023.

The Government of Dominica warmly congratulates Kevorn Vidal on his achievement

and reaffirms its commitment to supporting youth involvement in agriculture.