More than half of Jamaica’s population is experiencing some form of food insecurity, while more than one in four people are facing severe conditions that can leave them hungry or going an entire day without eating, according to new United Nations data.
The figures were highlighted by Dr Cecil Cornwall, head of the Western Hospitality Institute, during the launch of the 10th International Food Security and Sovereignty Conference in St Ann. Cornwall said 55 per cent of Jamaicans face uncertainty about having enough food, including situations where people run out of food or are forced to skip meals.
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The situation is considerably more serious for the 28 per cent classified as experiencing severe food insecurity. According to Cornwall, people in this group may regularly go hungry or spend an entire day without food.
The findings come as Jamaica continues to deal with the pressures of food prices, household income and access to nutritious meals. Although national poverty has declined significantly, recent household data shows that many families remain financially vulnerable and have limited room to absorb rising costs or unexpected economic shocks.
Food insecurity is not limited to whether households have something to eat. Access to affordable, nutritious food is also a concern, particularly when families with limited resources are forced to prioritise cheaper foods over healthier options.
Agriculture and climate conditions add another layer to the challenge. Prolonged periods of heat and dry weather have affected agricultural production and contributed to fluctuations in the prices and availability of fresh produce.
The alarming figures are being discussed ahead of the two-day International Food Security and Sovereignty Conference, scheduled for September 9 and 10 under the theme, “Building Resilient Food Systems for Jamaica’s Future.” The conference is expected to bring attention to ways of strengthening Jamaica’s ability to produce, distribute and access food.
The data highlights the continuing gap between economic progress and the everyday experience of many households. While Jamaica has recorded improvements in poverty levels and household consumption, ensuring that people can consistently afford adequate and nutritious meals remains a major national challenge.
For policymakers, the figures underscore the need for stronger food-production systems, greater household resilience and measures that improve access to affordable food as Jamaica works toward long-term food security.
