NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Dr. Cameron Lightbourne, Manager of Aquaponics at the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI), has joined the U.S. Department of State’s ExchangeAlumni network as part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on Climate Smart Agriculture in the Caribbean. Dr. Lightbourne was one of six Bahamian professionals selected to participate in the program, which aims to explore solutions to regional climate and food security challenges.
The program brought together participants from across the Caribbean, including representatives from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. Over three weeks, the group visited U.S. cities such as Washington, D.C., New Orleans, San Diego, and Huntsville, Alabama. Participants engaged with experts observed advanced agricultural technologies and exchanged ideas on addressing climate change and food production challenges.
“It is a great honor to be chosen for the IVLP,” Dr. Lightbourne said. “[It places me] among a distinguished group of alumni committed to making a difference in society. Access to this network and the opportunities it provides is invaluable.”
Dr. Lightbourne noted that the program highlighted areas for improvement in the agricultural sector within The Bahamas and the broader Caribbean. He observed that while many climate-smart agricultural practices are already known in the region, standards oversight and enforcement remain challenging.
“Major economies have far stricter oversight and adherence to agricultural regulations,” he said. “We must adopt similar practices consistently to foster agricultural and national development.”
One notable innovation he encountered during the program was using natural molasses as a fertilizer for hydroponic crops. Dr. Lightbourne explained that this method offers a sustainable alternative to traditional fertilizers and could align with BAMSI’s focus on environmentally friendly practices. He also emphasized the importance of composting techniques to improve soil health, which can rehabilitate barren soils and enhance crop quality.
Dr. Lightbourne said the insights gained from the IVLP would support BAMSI’s efforts to strengthen agriculture in The Bahamas. He plans to implement several techniques observed during the program, including hands-free monitoring systems, improved biosecurity measures, and sustainable growing methods.
In his role as a lecturer and head of BAMSI’s Aquaponics Department, Dr. Lightbourne aims to share these practices with students and staff. He emphasized the interconnectedness of land and water systems, noting that healthy soil leads to healthier water ecosystems.
During the program, Dr. Lightbourne volunteered at a food bank in Huntsville, Alabama, where he observed a high-tech hydroponic farm supplying fresh produce to families in need. He described this experience as an example of how advanced technology can address food security challenges effectively.
The program also fostered collaboration among Caribbean participants, who decided to form a council on agriculture. This group, composed of policymakers, business owners, and advisors, plans to advocate for regional food security initiatives and sustainable agricultural practices.
Dr. Lightbourne highlighted the diversity of the Bahamian delegation, including Frederica Dames of BAMSI, Terrance Roberts of Berkshire Farms, and Kendria Ferguson from the United Nations Disaster Risk Reduction Caribbean Office. He noted that their collective efforts reflect The Bahamas’ commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture amid climate change challenges.
He encouraged other professionals to consider participating in similar opportunities, describing the IVLP as a valuable program for fostering collaboration and professional growth. “I would tell anyone to take the chance and apply for the IVLP program. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can have far-reaching value to your present and future. Programs such as this enlighten members of our country beyond what a book, movie, or word of mouth can provide.”
The knowledge and experience gained through this program are expected to contribute to BAMSI’s ongoing initiatives and the broader agricultural development of The Bahamas.
Loading ...
