 |
| Dr. Alexander Powell |
I have just received information that the former head of RADA and CEO of Agro-Invest Corporation, Al Powell, has died. Al Powell also taught at Papine High School and he was my colleague. I am currently unable to obtain further information at this time.
The following statement was posted on the Ministry of Fisheries and Mining website:
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining mourns the passing of Dr. Alexander “Al” Powell, a visionary leader whose exceptional dedication helped to transform the agricultural sector. Dr. Powell passed away on July 4, 2025, at the age of 74.
Dr. Powell, a respected agribusiness leader and public servant was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Agro-Invest on July 1, 2019, bringing with him more than 25 years of senior executive experience across both private and public sector organizations.
His strategic foresight, assisted in guiding the Corporation to expand its reach and impact, through modernization of the Agro Parks, driving private investment, and promoting the concept of Agro-Economic and Production Zones. These integrated spaces were designed to boost enterprise development, Agro-processing, and export readiness. His leadership helped position Agro-Invest as a catalyst for Agri-industrial growth, rural transformation, and food system resilience.
Dr. Powell’s deep understanding of policy, marketing, infrastructure, and value chain development led to game-changing initiatives that attracted investors, empowered youth and small farmers, and emphasized the role of agriculture in national development. He was instrumental in advocating for climate-smart farming, building partnerships with key stakeholders, and implementing governance and operational reforms within Agro-Invest that continue to guide the institution’s work today.
A seasoned professional, Dr. Powell previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), where he led a period of sweeping reforms to enhance Jamaica’s agricultural extension services. His efforts earned him widespread acclaim among farmers, policymakers, and development partners for introducing technology-driven systems and improving outreach to rural communities.
Dr. Powell also held executive roles in the private sector, including as Group Vice President of Thermoplastics Limited, General Manager at Seprod Limited, Assistant General Manager of Facey Commodity Limited, and Marketing Director at Hardware & Lumber Limited. He served on several boards including the Jamaica Agricultural Society, Wallenford Coffee Company and The Banana Board, and provided consultancy in finance, governance, marketing, and HR across multiple sectors.
“Dr. Al Powell believed in advancing agribusiness, empowering small farmers and fostering sustainable growth, he has a calm demeanour, is shape witted, and gentlemanly in character" stated the Hon. Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining.
As a proud alumnus of the Knockalva School of Agriculture and the Jamaica School of Agriculture, who mentored and guided many agriculturalists in the fraternity he remained an active member of his alumni networks while passionately advocating for youth development in the farming sector.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Powell was a Justice of the Peace, a lover of history, an avid follower of current affairs, and a keen conversationalist who inspired those around him. He was deeply respected by colleagues, staff, stakeholders, and partners across the region.
Dr. Powell is survived by his wife, Marie and their two children. On behalf of the Government of Jamaica and the farming community, we extend our deepest condolences to the Powell family.
Help us to get things done by highlighting these matters and by sharing this blog with at least twenty people.
_______________________
Click HERE and join other males who are concerned about prostate health.
You don't have to go on the road to preach politics. Click on the icon below and express yourself. Bark Di Trute will broadcast your message without the world knowing who you are.
__________________Subscribe Now!
Remember that Bark Di Trute could fail to bark one day without your support. Send your ideas, stories, and news by WhatsApp at (876) 816-5261.
You can view the blog on your computer at https://vderby.blogspot.com, and you will be able to see the various links. For example, there is a link that takes you to the calendar so you can see what is happening on the weekend. You can even search the site for articles.
Click on the icon below to see the calendar:
Click to view the calendar. ___________________
My sincere condolences to the family of Dr. Powell.
ReplyDelete