News

Minister of Planning, Agriculture, Housing and Infrastructure Hon. Jay Ebanks is encouraging members of the public to support the upcoming annual Cayman Islands Agriculture Shows, which will be held across the Islands starting this month.

The events, organised by the Cayman Islands Agricultural Society (CIAS) with the support of the Ministry, Department of Agriculture and other key stakeholders, will be held in Grand Cayman on Ash Wednesday, February 22; Cayman Brac Saturday, March 18 and Little Cayman, Saturday April 29.

Minister Ebanks stated that after a two-year hiatus due to coronavirus restrictions as well as the damage suffered by several farmers as a result of Tropical Storm Grace, he is pleased that CIAS will be hosting the events again. “It is good that the agriculture shows are back on track. The Government has been supporting our commercial farmers to modernise and strengthen the sector and will continue to assist them with needed resources. They have been focusing on their rehabilitation efforts, and so I feel confident they are in a position to put on a good show this year."

He further said, "I want to encourage everyone to turn out for the agricultural shows. They provide an opportunity to support our hardworking farmers as they sell their produce, display their livestock and just showcase the best of what we have in agriculture".

George Smith, President of CIAS noted that this year will be bigger and better than previous events. "In the coming days, the Society will share more details with the public on what will be a truly memorable event, starting with the show in Grand Cayman on Ash Wednesday, he highlighted.

Features of the event on Ash Wednesday will include Farm Queen Competition, Beautiful Baby Competition, expanded agro industrial area, district and livestock displays, equestrian showcase, interactive children area, food court, live music and entertainment.

The internationally renowned Chicago Boyz Acrobatic Team, a professional gymnastics troupe and members of the Cuban Circus are confirmed for the event.

As part of the agriculture activities this month, the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing and Infrastructure and the George Town Revitalisation Initiative will host a family-friendly town market on Cardinall Avenue, George Town on Friday, February 17. Over twenty-five vendors, including farmers and other artisans, will have their produce and other locally made items for sale.