NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources, Hon. Jomo Campbell officially opened the Coconut 360 Festival in Rawson Square on Thursday, March 20. He told attendees that the gathering was not only to open the festival, but to also celebrate ‘a legacy and honour a way of life.’
"The Coconut 360 Festival is a tribute to one of the most remarkable gifts of nature," he said.
“The coconut tree, often called 'the tree of life,' has sustained our people for generations, providing food, livelihood and endless possibilities for innovation. This festival is more than just an exhibition, it is a platform to recognize the full circle potential of the coconut.”
He noted that all components of the coconut are usable from the root to the leaves.
"Every part of the coconut tree provides something of value, sustaining livelihoods, boosting our economy and enriching our culture," he said.
“Coconut water refreshes and hydrates; coconut oil nourishes and heals. Coconut husks and shells fuel industries and crafts; coconut leaves and wood provide shelter and materials, and even the coconut roots are said to have medicinal properties.”
He said that in 2019, the global coconut water market was valued at approximately $2.5 billion and is expected to grow even more significantly due to increasing health consciousness. The Minister said that the government launched this initiative in an attempt to support the hardworking farmers who fuel the industry. Consequently, he said, the Ministry is working to expand the coconut industry via its Coconut 360 program.
"We are committed to supporting the industry through improved research, training and market expansion," he noted. “We are also expanding financial assistance.”
The objectives for the programme include: promoting healthy lifestyles by increasing access to affordable natural coconut water; fostering local entrepreneurship and encouraging sustainable consumption and production.
He said that 14 coconut vendors have already been trained and new vendors have been registered on a daily basis to become a part of the programme.
Additionally, the construction of a number of coconut booths has already commenced. Each booth, he explained, will be equipped with essential features including a coconut opener, solar-powered cooler, potable water and sink, and waste bin. Four vendors were handed keys to their booths.
During the event, attendees were able to purchase and sample coconut water from the vendors on site. Other goods available included virgin coconut oil, handicrafts, cosmetics, and Bahamian dishes including coconut salad, stew coconut, coconut milk, coconut tarts and jimmy, coconut soap, toothpaste and deodorant.
He closed by thanking all those persons who made the festival possible including the Chairman of the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) Tyrone Fowler, Former BAMSI Chairman Senator Tyrell Young, the staff of BAMSI, and the staff at the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources.
(BIS Photos/Patrice Johnson)
