Beharie making agriculture work

Sheena Gayle, Gleaner Writer

Western Bureau:While many youngsters would not consider a career in agriculture a viable option, 22-years-old Christopher Beharie is proving that with the right attitude and the requisite effort, farming can bring great success and a sense of independence.

The young organic chicken farmer, who hails from Westmoreland, is the proud chief executive officer of Chigwell Free Range Natural Farms, which is located in Hanover. His farm currently supplies organic chickens to Round Hill Hotel and Villas and the Progressive Supermarket chain.

"Farming runs in the family," the young entrepreneur told Western Focus. "I have been doing this from I was in high school, and I love it. It takes a lot of dedication, but in the end, what I am doing is economically viable. There is a demand and I am servicing it ... I am creating jobs while teaching others how they can do the same."

The Jamaica Agriculture Organic Movement has named Beharie's 50-acre farm the first organic free-range farm in Jamaica. The naturally pastured farm allows chickens to easily walk in and out of their chicken house and roam in natural sunlight among the organically grown fruits and vegetables on the farm.

The chickens are also fed coconuts, which are a great source of minerals, protein, iron, and lauric acid. As a consequence, it is said that the Chigwell Farm organic chickens to taste better than the regular processed chickens.

challenging

"If I said it has not been challenging, I would not be telling the truth," said Beharie. "We went through a whole lot of challenges and government red tapes that was very discouraging, but we stuck with it. There were even times when relatives thought it was a waste of money to invest in this venture, but I am happy I stuck with it."

As a part of the farm's outreach programme, Chigwell Free Range Natural Farms partners with the College of Agriculture Science and Education to provide students with the opportunity to learn how to manage an organic farming system during their internship. In addition, the farm subsidises the lunch programme at Gurney's Mount and Success Primary schools in the parish.

"Organic chicken farming is something I would encourage more persons to get involved in, especially young persons," Beharie urged. "Create your own job through farming ... the profession has evolved to more than just forks and ploughs."