The Department of Agriculture (DoA), under the Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure (PLAHI), successfully hosted its observance of the International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) on 12 May 2026, bringing together members of the public, farmers, students, partner agencies, and government personnel in support of plant health, biosecurity, and national food security.
Held within the Government Administration Building precinct, the event highlighted the importance of protecting plant health as part of broader efforts to strengthen agricultural resilience, environmental sustainability, and food security in the Cayman Islands.
The observance also reinforced the global significance of plant protection, with an estimated 40% of crops worldwide lost annually due to pests and plant diseases.
Hon. Johany “Jay” Ebanks, Minister for Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure, stated:
“Protecting plant health is essential to protecting Cayman’s future. Strong biosecurity measures and continued public awareness play a critical role in supporting local agriculture, strengthening food security, and safeguarding our environment for future generations.”
Minister Ebanks also encouraged residents to continue supporting local farmers and to remain vigilant when importing or transporting plants and plant products.
The event featured interactive and educational activities led by Department personnel, including plant health awareness displays, pest management guidance, public engagement games, and information on the Department’s ongoing “Don’t Pack a Pest” campaign.
Attendees also engaged directly with the Department’s Plant Clinic, where officers provided advice on plant care, pest identification, whitefly concerns, and safe plant importation practices.
Deputy Director of Agriculture, Mr. Demoy Nash, stated:
“This event reflects the Department’s continued commitment to strengthening public awareness and community engagement around plant health and biosecurity. Protecting our agricultural sector requires collaboration and shared responsibility across the community.”
The Department also acknowledged the support and participation of its partner agencies and environmental stakeholders, whose involvement helped reinforce the importance of a coordinated national approach to plant protection and biosecurity.
The Department of Agriculture will continue public education and outreach activities throughout the month, including school engagement initiatives and ongoing awareness campaigns promoting plant health and responsible biosecurity practices.
Residents are encouraged to support national biosecurity efforts by following import regulations, reporting pest concerns, and remaining informed on best practices to help protect the Cayman Islands’ plants, crops, and natural ecosystems.