On the 25th of september a meeting was held for all members and non-members of UFA. There was a good turnout and room for some interesting conversations. At the end of the meeting attendees could complete a survey to share their perception on UFA. A distinction was made between members and non-members. There were seven respondents in total, three members and four non-members.
Members
The motivation for members to have become a member varied from being a commercial farmer fitting the target audience, the belief that a united community can make an impact and for staying on top of news and changes in the farming sector. Members said they want to hear about the farming experience of others and want help overcoming certain barriers.
Members see potential value in collectively addressing issues farmers encounter while the farms grow, having a united voice. Additionally, value lies in creating awareness and spreading knowledge as an association. Open communication, actively asking for feedback, actively listening to requests and trying to find opportunities and solutions are asked for.
In order to reach this potential respondents suggest several activities UFA can undertake to support the members, being: communicating with government, monthly meetings, email communication, information sessions and discussion sessions among farmers and stakeholders.
From this survey all three of the main focus areas resources, education and advocacy have shown to be equally as important to the members.
The last question of the survey was: what is your dream for agriculture on Aruba? Some key answers are: to grow diverse produce, to receive more support to local farmers and have their own farm, that there is unity between farmers (big or small), that the agricultural sector works with nature instead of against it and that there is appreciation for the agricultural sector from the general public.
Non-members
Non-members were first asked what about UFA it was that took their interest. All answers reflect an interest in the possibilities an association of farmers can bring. One respondent mentioned that they were a member before and had a renewed interest hoping UFA will be formed differently with a new vision and mission. For others the community of farmers may bring potential customers, interchange of techniques, do-it-yourself tips, inspiration and the sharing of data.
Like members, non-members see potential value in the uniting of farmers on Aruba. Suggestions are advocating for lowering tariffs, being educative, inspirative and a leader in helping new farmers start their business. For people interested in farming UFA could be a center of knowledge and one of the respondents sees potential in an UFA discount pass for members.
From this survey almost all three of the main focus areas resources, education and advocacy have shown to be equally as important to the members, with education leading by one vote.
Non-members got asked too what their dream for agriculture on Aruba is. Key answers are: to have a national self-sustainable farming activity and culture whereby Aruba residents participate to cut food expenses, that a small local economy can be created, a balanced way of farming between e.g. hydroponics and syntropic farming and that Aruba becomes a culinary destiny for the green tourist to taste Aruba’s culinary locally grown products.