San Jose, 16 April 2021 (IICA). The Farmer’s Anthem (A World of Farmers), released almost a year ago at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic to pay tribute to those who work tirelessly to maintain food production under the most difficult circumstances, is still relevant today. The song allows for conveying a message of solidarity and encouragement following the eruption of La Soufrière volcano in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which has displaced thousands of producers and dwellers in the country.
“With ah little bit ah love, ah little bit ah hope, ah little bit ah care and tenderness, we can feed a whole nation, lay the foundation, to make tomorrow the best”, goes the song written by Mistah Dale, which he performs alongside 17 renowned Barbadian artistes. The song was produced by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Ministry of Creative Economy, Culture and Sports of Barbados together with IICA.
Following the eruption in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, about 20,000 people have been evacuated from the northern region of the country, which is the island’s main agricultural production area.
“IICA supports the Government’s efforts to address the country’s food security concerns. We call on the international community to assist St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which needs everyone’s support at this time”, stated Manuel Otero, Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), who requested the mobilization of human and financial resources to address the emergency.
In 2020, The Farmer’s Anthem formed part of IICA’s popular music tribute to farm workers.
“We’ve got the Earth in our hands, we can be the difference, yes we can!”, continues the song, dedicated to the Caribbean heroes and heroines who guarantee food and nutritional security in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and all countries of the region through agriculture.
IICA salutes and supports farmers during these difficult times, certain that “the sun will shine brighter, tomorrow will be better”.
The Farmer’s Anthem (original audio in English, subtitles in Spanish, Portuguese and French).
About IICA
IICA is the specialized agency for agriculture in the Inter-American system, with a mission to encourage, promote and support its 34 Member States in their efforts to achieve agricultural development and rural well-being through international technical cooperation of excellence. More information:
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