ABOUT US
Welcome
Welcome to Caribbean Climate Responsive Agriculture Forum (CCRAF), a passionate and dedicated agricultural-climate-focused Netwok committed to driving positive change across the Caribbean Region. With a deep-rooted belief in the urgency of addressing climate challenges, we have embarked on a journey to create a sustainable and resilient future for current and upcoming generations.
What Drives Us
We are driven by a shared sense of responsibility and the understanding that climate change is a global issue that demands collective efforts. The devastating effects of rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation have made it evident that immediate action is essential. We are motivated by the potential for positive change and the power of individuals and organizations coming together to create a sustainable future for all.
History
Given the urgency for adaptation, a well oraganized and coordinated platform through which agricultural sector stakeholders and other relevant actors can exchange experiences and knowledge was seen as an immediate need. To respond, the Inter-Americnan Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) established the Caribbean Climate Smart Agriculture (CCSA) Forum in 2015; now termed the Caribbean Climate Responsive Agriculture Forum (CCRAF) from 2021. The forum acts as a neutral space where all can share, learn, plan, and promote policies, strategies, and actions geared towards building more productive, low emission, and sustainable agricultural systems that are well adapted to the impacts of climate change while supporting livlihoods.
Our Approach
Our approach is rooted in science, collaboration, and empowerment. We leverage cutting-edge research and data to inform our strategies and initiatives, ensuring that our actions are evidence-based and impactful. We actively seek partnerships with like-minded organizations, governments, and stakeholders to amplify our reach and effect change on a broader scale. By empowering individuals and communities with knowledge, resources, and tools, we believe we can create a groundswell of support for sustainable practices and policy changes in the region’s agriculture sector.
Objectives
The Key objectives of the CCRAF are to:
- Raise awareness and share knowledge of climate smart agricultural practices, policies and options for the Caribbean region that has the potential to be readily implemented or adopted.
- Build a community of interested and engaged actors at the regional and national levels that can support the integration of climate change considerations into policy, planning, research, and implementation in the agricultural sector.
- Promote enhanced coordination and collaboration among actors and institutions to achieve optimal results.
- Link technical knowledge to practical action on the ground including policy processes, capacity building and demonstrations for greater implementation and adoption.
What We Do
Education, Awareness, and Knowledge Transfer: We believe that knowledge is the first step towards change. Through workshops, seminars, webinars, and educational campaigns, we aim to raise awareness about the causes and consequences of climate change, inspiring individuals to take action in their daily lives.
Advocacy and Policy: We work tirelessly to influence policy decisions at local, regional, and global levels. By engaging with policymakers, conducting research, and advocating for sustainable policies, we strive to create an environment conducive to meaningful change.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement: Communities and stakeholders are at the heart of our efforts. We engage with local communities through grassroots initiatives, providing support for sustainable practices, and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.
Innovation and Solutions: We actively seek out innovative solutions to climate challenges. By promoting renewable energy, sustainable agricultural practices, waste reduction, and other eco-friendly practices, we contribute to a more sustainable future.
Capacity Building: Capacity building in the agriculture sector is crucial for sustainable development and food security. Thus, by enhancing the knowledge and skills of farmers, agricultural workers, and institutions contributes to improved productivity, resilience, and adaptability to changing conditions.
Join Us in Making a Difference
We invite you to be a part of our journey. Whether you’re an individual, business, or organization, your involvement can create a ripple effect that leads to lasting change.
JOIN US NOW!!! so that together we can drive positive action, inspire sustainable behaviors, and work towards building a more sustainable, low carbon and climate resilient agriculture sector.
Meet The CCRAF Team
Core Team
Mrs. Nekelia Carai
Technical Specialist in Water and Soil and Coordinator of the CCRAF – IICA Agricultural Climate Action and Sustainability Program
Dr. Chaney St. Martin
International Specialist in Water and Soil Management – IICA Agricultural Climate Action and Sustainability Program
Dr. Curt Delice
Special Affairs Coordinator for the Caribbean Region and Representative – IICA Suriname
Support Team
Mr. Craig Thomas
National Specialist – IICA Antigua & Barbuda
Ms. Eboni Adderley
National Specialist – IICA Bahamas
Mr. Allister Glean
Representative – IICA Barbados
Mr. Damien Hinds
National Program Technician – IICA Barbados
Dr. Roxanne Waithe
Technical Specialist – IICA Barbados
Mr. Willie Chan
Technical Specialist/Coordiantor – IICA Belize
Dr. Stephen Williams
Technical Specialist – IICA Belize
Mr. Anthony Cyrille
Technical Specialist – IICA Dominica
Mr. Gregory Delsol
Technical Specialist – IICA Grenada
Mr. Wilmot Garnett
Representative – IICA Guyana
Ms. Rachelle Pierre-Louis
Coordinator of Technical Cooperation – IICA Haiti
Mr. Kent Coipel
Representative IICA Jamaica
Mr. Ainsworth Riley
Agri-Business Specialist – IICA Jamaica
Ms. Shauna Brandon
Rural Development Specialist – IICA Jamaica
Mr. Brent Theophile
National Specialist – IICA St. Lucia
Ms. Tiffany Surage
Technical Assistant – IICA St. Lucia
Ms. Sharon Jones
Technical Specialist – IICA St. Kitts & Nevis
Mr. Michael Dalton
Technical Specialist – St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Mr. Laurenzo Tirtopawirow
Agriculture Technonology & Innovation Specialist – IICA Suriname
Dr. Faizel Wilnis
Livestock & Animal Health Specialist – IICA Suriname
Ms. Diana Francis
Representative – IICA Trinidad & Tobago
Mr. Richard Rampersaud
Agri-Business & Value Chain Specialist – IICA Trinidad & Tobago
Past Team Members
Mr. Dino Demidof
Past Agricultural Technology and Innovation Specialist – IICA Suriname