VOM & GEF

This project addresses two (2) of the GEF focal areas – Persistent Organic Pollutants and Land Degradation. Sustainable agriculture will be promoted through training and capacity building in organic and bio-dynamic farming methods in the Chickland community in the Central mountain range of Trinidad. The project aims to eliminate the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals in food production through the promotion of sustainable land management principles and practices. Sustainable land management methods include mixed farming, crop diversity and rotation, integrated pest management, grow box technique, green manuring, budding and grafting, plant propagation, animal husbandry and chick incubation, sustainable management of waste water and establishment of fire tracks.

The Grantee organization, Vision on Mission (VOM) has been successfully involved in the reintegration and rehabilitation of ex-inmates, returning citizens (deportees) and delinquent youth over the past years.

It was noted that ex-inmates are usually discriminated against when applying for employment, as well as they fare better when employed in an area that they enjoy. Presently, a large number of inmates exiting the prisons of Trinidad and Tobago are skilled in agriculture and farming, since it is a consistent part of their imprisonment work. However, upon their release, they do not have any means to continue and are placed in other jobs if possible.There are numerous requests for agriculture and farming work since they are already skilled in this area.

This project aims to provide permanent and seasonal employment for over 50 ex-inmates and delinquent youths, thereby assisting in poverty reduction within the immediate community, and for men and women exiting the criminal justice system. In addition, there are national calls for increased food security and development of the agricultural sector in Trinidad and Tobago. This project also aims to establish a community approach to re-integration and resettlement of ex-inmates through building their capacity in organic and bio-dynamic farming, thereby helping to eliminate POPs in the Chickland area. Waste from agricultural produce will be utilized to provide food for livestock. It is also anticipated that the organically grown vegetables, fruit and meats, etc will supply approximately twenty (20) hotels, institutions and restaurants. Revenue gained from the sale of this produce will ensure the sustainable running of the Chickland farm.