–paving the way for bold regional action
THE CARICOM Secretariat, in collaboration with the World Food Program (WFP) and regional partners, officially launched the results of the Eight Caribbean Food Security and Livelihoods Survey during a virtual ceremony on Wednesday.
The event featured remarks by Ambassador David Prendergast, Director of Sectoral Programmes, who emphasised the survey’s critical role in shaping evidence-based policy across the Region.
In his address, Ambassador Prendergast highlighted the survey’s evolution since its inception in 2020, noting its value in capturing the lived experiences of Caribbean citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.
“With each successive round, we’ve deepened our understanding of the structural and emerging challenges affecting livelihoods, food access, and resilience,” he stated.
The director noted that the latest findings underscore the ongoing impacts of climate shocks, economic uncertainty, and the rising cost of living on food security and livelihoods.
He also revealed that the data indicated a powerful narrative of community resilience, with households turning to home gardening, income diversification, and local support systems in the face of adversity.
Looking ahead, he called for bold, targeted action to build on this resilience. The Director also outlined key priorities for CARICOM, including: strengthening shock-responsive social protection systems, investing in climate-smart agriculture and regional value chains, supporting youth, women, and micro-entrepreneurs and enhancing regional food systems integration, including logistics and digital access.
“The data from Round eight is not an endpoint; it is a catalyst for region-wide recovery, reform, and resilience,” Ambassador Prendergast concluded, urging stakeholders to translate insights into impactful policy and programming. (CARICOM)