The Ministry of Sustainable Development is calling for greater understanding and cooperation amid ongoing public concern over land disputes between farmers and homeowners.

Permanent Secretary, Sherilita Dore-Tyson clarified that the Ministry has designated lands for specific purposes, urging farmers to ensure they are operating within the right zones. She stated, “We tell farmers to go to the Ministry of Agriculture, because we have designated lands for designated purposes – residential, commercial and farming. You cannot just take up land and decide that is it.”

Minister of Sustainable Development, Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke, also addressed the issue, noting that “some of these lands are already owned by individuals who have bought through the bank and are paying mortgages but cannot build because of farming activities.”

She added that the Ministry is seeking a fair balance between food security and housing needs, saying, “One farmer cannot prevent 384 potential homeowners from building. We have to find a balance between agriculture and housing for livelihood security.”

Dr. Clarke further revealed that a task force has been established following a recent Sustainability Symposium to identify solutions to the ongoing land challenges.