Mainstay/Whyaka, a sandy settlement, is located approximately 10 miles from Anna Regina in Region Two. Presently, the Anna Regina market stalls are flooded with its pineapples which are sold by seasonal farmers mostly females.
According to one farmer, pineapple harvesting commenced in April and is in full swing. The female vendors and farmers related that over the years cultivation and marketing of the fruit paved the way for income generation in their families. Pineapple cultivation is considered agro-tourism the economic activity surrounding cultivation and harvesting is popular in Mainstay/Whyaka and often attracts tourists. Most of the lands in the Mainstay community are under pineapple cultivation, according to Jeneve Pearson. She occupies two acres. With harvesting now in progress Pearson wants to ensure that she gets the best of sales. Pearson’s pineapple prices range from $100-$500.
Pearson said that like any other crop, pineapples are affected by pests, however she ensures that her plot remains organic. Pearson explained that from the sales of pineapple she supports her household and sends her children to school. “I have been planting pineapples since I was eight years, I worked at the pineapple factory at Mainstay, I know to peel this pine fast, it’s an art, I look forward to the crop, especially in April and November,” Pearson said. Her mother, Amanda Pearson, who has a stall next to Jeneve, says that she is happy that her daughter has followed in her footsteps in pineapple farming. She said that many women in the village look forward to planting pineapples and an end-of-crop income. The elder Pearson said that pineapple made it possible for her to take care of all her children and ensured her a home for her.
Another vendor and farmer, Thelma Williams, said that the money she earns from the sale of pineapple is used to provide for her five children. She said that she looks forward to the bi-annual crop. “I have been selling for over 10 years and the returns are good. It is what I use to send the children to school, pay the bills and also buy one or two pieces of furniture for my house,” Williams said.
Williams and other vendors had on display several succulent looking pineapples. Like Williams, other farmers were seen along the roadway selling pineapples. They said that when the pineapple factory was in operation, it guaranteed markets for them, however since it has been inoperable for years their only option was to relocate their business at the local markets. Some vendors would turn up at the market as early as 6 am and finish their day at 6 pm. The farmers said that residents around the neighbourhoods are supportive and they are happy with the sales thus far. Pineapple cultivation has been doing well for the year in the Mainstay/Whyaka area due to its many advantages and favourable returns.
