Laila Langford, Author at Caribbean Investigative Journalism Network

Laila Langford

Laila Langford, a skilled professional in the field of media, hails from the nature isle of the Caribbean, Dominica. With a commendable 5 years of experience in the industry, Laila has established herself as a reputable figure in the broadcasting realm. Currently employed at the Dominica Broadcasting Corporation, DBS Radio, Laila has played an integral role in delivering accurate and timely news to the listeners. Her dedication to journalism and her ability to connect with the audience has helped her gain widespread recognition as an exceptional news anchor. In addition to her work at DBS Radio, Laila also actively engages with Carib Invest TV, a renowned regional agency that specializes in business news. As the lead news anchor, she exhibits her expertise and in-depth knowledge of the business world, keeping viewers informed about the latest developments in the region.

Agriculture

Dominica Confronts Food Challenges Post Maria

By

Jermine Abel and

Laila Langford | May 29, 2024

After the devastation Hurricane Maria left behind on Dominica and the ensuing food shortages, officials and residents pledged not only to restore the island’s agricultural system but also to make it more self-reliant.

But since 2017 food imports have soared. The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) in its data report showed that over the last six years since the storm, Dominica has imported more food in each of those years. In 2017, the country imported US$40 million worth of food, since then the number has ballooned to US$56 million – with meat, cereals, fruits and vegetables accounting for a large percentage of the bill. https://youtu.be/Xz96xHNu39M
Erica Burnett Biscombe speaking on wanting to give up (Video by Laila Langford)

Hurricane Maria damaged or destroyed much of the agricultural infrastructure, including buildings, animal husbandry facilities, agricultural roads and croplands. In a preliminary report by the government of Dominica, the agriculture sector reported US$ 179.6M (EC$ 485M) in loss and damage, impacting all aspects of agricultural production from crops, infrastructure, equipment to croplands.

“Livestock damage includes 45 percent of cattle, 65 percent pigs and over 90 percent chickens with an estimated value of EC$ 8.68M (US$3.21M),” the government reported.

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