The Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) officially launched its inaugural Agricultural Research and Innovation Symposium (ARIS) on Wednesday, July 8, bringing together researchers, policymakers, farmers, development partners and private sector stakeholders from across the Caribbean to showcase science-driven solutions for a more resilient and food-secure region.

Held under the theme “Advancing Agricultural Innovation for Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Food Systems,” the Symposium served as a platform for sharing CARDI’s latest research and strengthening collaboration among regional institutions working to transform Caribbean agriculture.

Opening the Symposium, Chairman of CARDI’s Board of Governors and Minister of Agriculture in Grenada, the Hon. Lennox Andrews, said the Caribbean must continue investing in research and innovation to address increasingly complex agricultural challenges. He noted that climate change, evolving pest and disease pressures, and global market disruptions demand that the region embrace science, innovation and collaboration as essential tools for securing the future of Caribbean agriculture. He added that the research on display demonstrated CARDI’s commitment to practical solutions that improve productivity, strengthen food systems and support farmers’ livelihoods across the region. He also stressed the need to give CARDI “the financial tools to do the job” if the region wants the institute to keep providing solutions.