The Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund (SLUNCF) collaborated with Republic Bank (EC) Ltd. to celebrate World Food Day on October 16, 2025 with an engaging Grantee Exchange at Amb’s Harvest in La Croix Maingot. The event brought together students from the Babonneau Secondary School, along with representatives of Republic Bank and SLUNCF, to explore how climate-smart agriculture can strengthen food security and resilience across Saint Lucia.
The exchange is part of the ongoing Republic Bank-SLUNCF partnership supporting community-based organisations (CBOs) focusing on sustainable agriculture, improved livelihoods, and climate resilience.
A highlight of the day was Amb’s Harvest’s Hydroponic Grow Bag System — an innovative method that increases year-round vegetable production while reducing pesticide use. The system serves as both an educational platform for students and a replicable model for small-scale farmers interested in adopting sustainable, technology-driven practices.
Students participated in hands-on demonstrations, learning how hydroponics integrates into modern farming and supports local food systems and school feeding programmes. The session also encouraged collaboration among grantees and highlighted the importance of partnerships between the private sector, civil society, and educational institutions.
“This exchange provided an opportunity for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and inspiration,” said Diana Joseph, programme officer at SLUNCF. “It strengthened the capacity of local organisations to bring about meaningful change within their communities.”
SLUNCF Chief Executive Officer Craig Henry commended Republic Bank’s leadership in supporting community-driven environmental solutions saying: “This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration between the financial sector and grassroots organisations. Together, we are equipping communities to strengthen local food systems and adapt to a changing climate.”
The partnership between SLUNCF and Republic Bank, launched in 2024, established the Republic Bank Sustainability Fund — Saint Lucia under the Bank’s Power to Make A Difference (PMAD) programme. With a five-year commitment of $750 000, the initiative supports projects promoting food security, biodiversity protection, and nature-based solutions across the island. (PR)
