UPP praises government’s Agricultural Land Lease, scrutinizes terms

On January 26, 2026, the United Progressive Party (UPP), under the leadership of Joshua Francis, expressed its support for the recent announcement by the Government of Dominica regarding the establishment of an Agricultural Land Lease Facility.

The initiative aims to assist young farmers in gaining access to land, with Minister of Agriculture Hon. Roland Royer describing it as “a doorway to food security and economic growth.”

The UPP, via press release, said that it views this development as a constructive move toward empowering the next generation of agricultural practitioners in the country.

The party acknowledged the favorable terms of the program, which offers agricultural land at a symbolic lease rate of EC$1.00 per acre annually during an initial five-year period, with options for renewal. This minimal fee is seen as a significant step in reducing financial barriers that hinder young individuals from entering the farming sector.

Despite the positive outlook, party leader Joshua Francis voiced concerns about the absence of comprehensive support measures necessary to ensure the program’s success. In the release, he questioned whether the initiative is genuinely an economic development strategy or merely a political move aimed at garnering support for the Dominica Labour Party.

“Access to land is only the first step,” remarked Francis. “Without adequate training, resources, and market access, we risk setting up our young farmers for failure rather than success. The government must answer critical questions that will determine whether this initiative truly delivers on its promise.”

The UPP outlined several critical areas where clarification from the government is necessary:

– Training and Technical Assistance: What plans are in place for agricultural education programs? Young farmers require guidance on modern farming techniques, soil management, pest control, and sustainable practices. Are extension services and expert advisors available to mentor these farmers?

– Resource Support: What financial and material aid will be provided for initial farming activities? The costs of seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and irrigation systems can be substantial. How will farmers with limited capital access these essential inputs?

– Market Access: Have markets already been secured for farmers’ produce? Successful agriculture depends on reliable sales channels. Have agreements been made with local retailers, hotels, restaurants, or export partners to ensure farmers have buyers for their crops?

– Income Support: What mechanisms are in place to support farmers during the cultivation period? Crops often require weeks or months to mature, and farmers need resources to cover personal and operational expenses during this time.

– Infrastructure Development: What commitments has the government made regarding essential infrastructure such as farm access roads, water supply, and post-harvest facilities? Without proper infrastructure, even the most dedicated farmers will face difficulties.

– Risk Management: What insurance options or disaster relief programs will be offered to protect farmers from natural calamities, weather events, or crop failures? Given Dominica’s susceptibility to hurricanes and tropical storms, such support is vital.

Francis emphasized that well-meaning programs have previously failed due to poor planning and lack of follow-through. He urged the government to provide a detailed implementation plan that addresses these concerns before young farmers commit to the program.

The UPP reaffirmed that agricultural development is essential for Dominica’s food security, rural enterprise growth, economic resilience, and employment opportunities.

Expressing the party’s willingness to collaborate constructively with the government and stakeholders to ensure this Land Lease Facility becomes a genuine catalyst for positive change rather than another missed opportunity, Francis called on the government to engage actively with farmers’ associations, agricultural experts, and young prospective farmers to develop a comprehensive support framework.

This, he said, is necessary to create an environment where young farmers can succeed and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.

The release stated the UPP remains committed to policies that foster economic growth, social justice, and sustainable development for all citizens of Dominica.