Overview

The Denbigh Agricultural and Industrial Show have been held for the last fifty eight (58) years and was coordinated by the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS). The show integrates several key stakeholders within the agricultural sector and related industries at one special event to highlight the best of Jamaica’s agriculture as well as its potential as a viable vehicle to enhance national development.

Linkages are forged with critical sectors in the economy such as tourism, entertainment, transportation, finance and banking, commodity board associations, science and technology, research and development.

The Denbigh Show also promotes investment opportunities in agriculture and acknowledges the work of Jamaica’s over 180,000 farmers. Importantly, the Show is a source of inspiration and encouragement and provides the opportunities for patrons to become familiarized with the latest agricultural technologies and value added opportunities available.

Through its collaborative emphasis, the Denbigh Agricultural & Industrial Show has been placed among the most prestigious exhibitions within the Caribbean and caters to an audience of over 80,000 loyal patrons throughout the traditional three days’ event.


Introduction

The Denbigh Agricultural Show is annually participated by the Department of Co-operatives and Friendly Societies. The event is held for three consecutive days to include Emancipation Day each year. For years this show is being used by the Department as a promotional tool. This year was no exception and the Department once again participated in the annual show held during the period July 31- August 2, 2010.

The Department’s budgetary constraints and the fact that there are no sponsors for this activity; planning, organizing and execution of the activities surrounding this event were challenging.

Much work was undertaken in preparing for the event which continues to be a successful medium to promote the work of the Department by creating public awareness of the Department’s roles and functions.

Thirteen (13) staff members were volunteered to work throughout the course of the three day period. The assisted with the disseminated information and promotional items which included key rings, caps, pens and fliers. Application Forms were also available for interested individuals.

Overall one hundred and sixty three (163) persons visited the booth this year which is the highest ever recorded since 2003 when one hundred and sixty five (165) persons visited the booth. Visitors were attracted to the booth mainly because of the promotional items and the banner however, a large number of persons enquired about the registration process of Cooperatives and Friendly Societies.

The Show ran smoothly with minor glitches. This was attributed to the strategic planning and organization of Miss Celloney Bailey and Miss Francine Blackwood and the volunteerism of the Staff. Clarendon Association of Street People (CLASP) was also helpful in storing the Department’s furniture and other items at the end of each day.

Thank you one and all.