BRAC VACS project to minimize climate hazards in agricultural zones

Farmers will be among the chief beneficiaries of a project geared toward climate change adaptation. The BRAC VACs project seeks to build resilience among agricultural stakeholders, particularly in areas in Saint Lucia that are prone to flooding, drought and landslides.
BRAC is a leading international nonprofit with a mission to empower people in situations of poverty. VAC is an acronym formed from the three Vietnamese words Vuon (garden), Ao (fish pond), and Chuong (pigsty or poultry shed). It refers to a form of domestic agriculture in which food gardening, fish rearing and animal husbandry are wholly integrated.
The BRAC VACS project focuses on Costing an estimated US$11 million, the project will establish climate change centres in several agricultural zones, and target 12, 000 farmers and agro-processors.
Manager of the project, Dr. Donatien Gustave, said workers will be trained to minimize the impact of climate hazards.
“This project seeks to build resilience among stakeholders, in particular the institutions that give support to agriculture and rural development, and very importantly to personnel—the farmers and agro-processors. But it’s not only about building resilience it’s about facilitating growth in the sector.”
The primary goal of the project is to increase Saint Lucia’s food security. Currently the project is mobilizing agricultural workers to participate in the training. Dr. Gustave said their input is necessary for the project’s success.
“If farmers do not get exposed to the technologies, if they don’t have markets or some idea of how to perform assessments of data to look at niches, or how to differentiate products, or how to add value, the way ahead is difficult,” he said. “Remember we want to build growth and resilience, and at the same time empower society—in particular the different actors who enable agriculture and rural development on the ground.”
The BRAC VACS project is tenured for two years. Priority will be given to women, vulnerable groups, and the youth.
The project is being facilitated by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology and Vocational Training.