A major step forward for food security and local agricultural production in Trinidad & Tobago

Today, CARDI joined the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), IICA Trinidad and Tobago, representatives of the Ministry of Education – TT , farmers, and stakeholders for the official harvest of the Black-Eyed Peas Pilot Project in Warrenville, Trinidad.

The initiative demonstrated the strong potential for commercial black-eyed peas production under local conditions, with germination rates exceeding 96% and harvest achieved within 56–60 days. CARDI technical teams also conducted live harvest demonstrations and shared findings on irrigation, crop management, soil improvement, pest and disease control, and production efficiency.

The project highlights how research, innovation, and collaboration can support food and nutrition security, strengthen local value chains, and reduce dependence on imported food products.