A project, aimed at strengthening the national capacities to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change was launched on Tuesday, December 9, 2014.

The Ministry of Agriculture launched component one of the Adaptation to Climate Change in Agriculture and Forestry project.

The project is being carried out under the Caribbean Aqua-Terrestrial Solutions (CATS) program, operated by the German Development Cooperation.

It focuses on adaptation measures to climate change in agriculture and forestry and a ridge to reef approach with activities in the Marriaqua valley.

Speaking at the official launch, Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar highlighted several initiatives taken by the Ministry to adapt to climate change.

Meanwhile, Principal Adviser for Caribbean Aqua-Terrestrial Solutions, Eva Naher says through this project, they are seeking to find a regional solution to climate change issues.

The terrestrial component is focusing on adaptation measures to climate change in agriculture and forestry and a “Ridge to Reef”-approach is targeted – with activities concentrated in the Mesopotamia-Marriaqua Valley - the larger hinterland of the South Coast Marine Conservation Area in St. Vincent and the Grenadines – supported through WINFA on the ground.