Sean Paul Assists Farmers With Rainwater Harvesting System

International recording artiste Sean Paul has collaborated with Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica to assist local farmers.

Sean Paul and FFP eased water woes recently by providing a rainwater harvesting system to several farmers across the island.

The recipients were Romaine Hall from Jeffery Town, St Mary, Livingston and Wangel Warner of Albion Mountain in St Thomas and Maxine Gordon of Fern District in St James.

Each rainwater harvesting system, valued at $315,000 were sponsored by the Sean Paul Foundation (SPF) and facilitated by FFP Jamaica. The systems include a rainwater harvesting shed, a 1,000-gallon storage tank with a 55-gallon drum for the application of fertiliser and a gravity feed drip-irrigation system.

Sean Paul said working with Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica gave him a sense of security.

“I decided to work with FFP Jamaica, because their programmes are geared towards the upliftment of our people and building our country. That’s the same thing I am on,” he said. “They are doing amazing, transparent work. People can see the high standard of help that they have given over the years. I just wanted to partner with someone who knew what they were doing.”

FFP Jamaica’s Executive Director Kivette Silvera affirmed the reach of the project.

“I can categorically say these rainwater harvesting systems will have a significant impact on small farmers. When you think about it, every year you hear about drought in Jamaica and farmers saying that they have suffered losses. If it is not raining, how can they water the farm?” asked Silvera.

Sean Paul added that although the drought forecasted this year has not materialised, there is definite need for the project.

“Farming is the backbone of the country, and small farmers have been doing their part. This year was projected to be a drought year, we have been blessed with rain, but I am glad that we did it,” he said. “This project will go a long way. To be self-sufficient is an important thing. We will try to do more for other small farmers across the island.”