Agricultural extension officers play a vital role in the nation’s Family Island farming communities. These men and women often bridge the gap between farmers and modern agricultural knowledge, providing access to tools,
inputs and best practices and techniques. Their services empower farmers with the skills and resources needed to improve productivity, sustainability and resilience against challenges like climate change, pest infestations, irrigation issues and a lack of supplies.
By offering educational and training opportunities connected to best practices and providing access to new technologies and market insights, extension programmes enhance food security, boost local economies and improve livelihoods. These programmes also foster community development by promoting collaboration, encouraging innovation and addressing unique local needs, ultimately contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of farming communities.
The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) has a dedicated extension programme in place with officers spread throughout the Family Islands; North and South Andros, Cat Island, Eleuthera and Long Island. The officers who facilitate these programmes are well trained, experienced agriculturalists backed by the full support of the Institute. They work hard to offer dynamic extension services to their communities and their efforts have bolstered the local agriculture sector as they engage the community in meaningful ways.
Ms. Frederica Dames is BAMSI’s Extension Officer in South Andros. She is a daughter of the rich soils of the ‘Big Yard’, and she brings to the table a solid academic background, experience in farming and a passion for people and
community. Among her accomplishments, Ms. Dames was selected to join the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Alumni network in 2024 as part of the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) focused on Climate Smart Agriculture in the Caribbean. In 2023 she was the recipient of the Prime Minister’s Youth Female Farmer of the Year Award during the Agrarian Awards hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture. And she was selected as the Valedictorian of BAMSI’s Class of 2021, graduating with an Associate degree in Agriculture.
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