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DEVELOPMENT
Farming
The Rio Grande Valley is a land of food cultivators, where Maroon people continue ancestral traditions of working the earth and living in harmony with the mountains and waterways. Local farmers plant yams, dasheen, cocoa, banana, plantain, breadfruit, callaloo, and seasonal fruits and vegetables, alongside medicinal herbs passed down for generations.
Families also raise chickens, goats, pigs, and cattle, and continue traditional wild hog hunting and river harvesting for janga (freshwater crayfish), river fish, and busu (river snails).
The passage of Hurricane Melissa greatly impacted farms throughout the valley, but as they have done for centuries, Maroons are rebuilding—replanting and reviving crops for their families and for the wider Jamaican and global food system.
Farmer profiles and farm-to-table initiatives will be featured here.
Ecotourism
The Rio Grande Valley offers pristine rivers, mountain trails, waterfalls, birdlife, and sacred Maroon landscapes tied to Queen Nanny and the Maroon people. Visitors explore untouched waterfalls, river pools, bamboo rafting on the Rio Grande, historic battle sites, and vibrant Maroon cultural heritage.
Ecotourism forms a key part of the local economy, connecting travelers with nature, heritage, and the community that protects this land.
Accommodations
Visitors may enjoy authentic homestay experiences with Maroon families—comfortable homes with modern amenities and warm hospitality.
Accommodation options include homestays across the valley, as well as the Katawud Village Campground and Cabin in Ginger House, and the White River Falls Guest House in Comfort Castle.
A directory and booking links will be provided here.
Craftspeople
The valley is home to master artisans working with bamboo, straw, wood, seeds, calabash, and natural fibers to create baskets, mats, household wares, jewelry, drums, and cultural items.
Though fewer young people enter the craft tradition today, the artisans who continue the work are world-class culture bearers. Supporting their work helps preserve an irreplaceable heritage practice and encourages the youth to become apprentice craftspeople.
This page will include artisan profiles, workshop opportunities, and purchasing information.
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Learn More: Mill Bank’s Simpson contented with crafting items
Education, Youth & Cultural Continuity
Education in the Rio Grande Valley blends formal schooling, cultural instruction, land-based learning, and intergenerational mentorship. Youth learn agriculture, drum and dance traditions, Maroon history, and values of community and self-reliance.
Students also pursue modern education, digital literacy, and vocational skills. Youth programs, cultural clubs, church activities, and elder guidance shape a strong next generation.
Profiles, workshops, and programs will be featured here.
Sports & Recreation
Sports and recreation are a vibrant part of life in the Rio Grande Valley. The community has produced talented athletes in cricket and football (soccer), the two most popular competitive sports in Jamaica. Matches draw community support and bring generations together.
Swimming in the river, hiking mountain trails, and informal athletics also form part of everyday recreation and youth development.
Images and stories of local athletes and sports traditions will be showcased on this page.