Perspectives on strengthening local food systems in Small Island Developing States

• DOI: 10.1007/s12571-022-01281-0
• Publication Date: 2022-05-04T19:04:02Z
• Authors: Cornelia Guell; Catherine R. Brown; Otto W. Navunicagi; Viliamu Iese; Neela Badrie; Morgan Wairiu; Arlette Saint Ville; Nigel Unwin; ; Sashi Kiran; T. Alafia Samuels; Ian Hambleton; Colin Tukuitonga; Connie Donato-Hunt; Florian Kroll; Rachel Nugent; Nita G. Forouhi; Sara Benjamin-Neelon
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis

Abstract Small Island Developing States (SIDS) share high burdens of nutrition-related conditions, including non-communicable diseases, associated with an increasing reliance on imported, processed foods. Improving health through the production and consumption local, nutritious foods is a policy objective many SIDS governments. This study aimed to understand contemporary challenges opportunities strengthening local food systems in two case settings, Fiji St. Vincent Grenadines. Fifty-two in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted key stakeholders involved production. Interviews analysed by both country teams using thematic analysis. Local networks settings included formal governance bodies as well more informal connections civil society communities. Their main function was sharing resources knowledge, but levels trust cooperation between varied market open intense competition from imports. hindered few slow investments governments, dated technology, lack knowledge. Stakeholders believed this marginalisation occurring against background rising preferences for imported population, disinterest employment sector. Despite challenges, strong narratives resilience opportunity highlighted such national pride produce commercialisation diets. Efforts support should focus structures prioritise over corporate import markets, assist collaboration co-learning, alternative agro-food practices.