Dominican Republic launches Campo Joven 2.0 program for young farmers

Vice‑President Raquel Peña led the launch of Campo Joven 2.0, a government‑backed initiative by the Ministry of Youth and Banco Agrícola to support a new generation of Dominican producers. The program expands financing to a revolving fund of RD$225 million, offering zero‑interest loans, specialised training and scholarships, and adds an international‑exchange component.

Since its 2023 start, Campo Joven has approved 352 projects worth RD$171.26 million, directly benefiting 587 young entrepreneurs across all 32 provinces. The funding has enabled 14,367 agricultural tasks and 6,240 livestock activities, covering crops such as banana, avocado, rice and cacao, as well as dairy, poultry and beekeeping. Women now represent 24 % of beneficiaries, with 82 female producers receiving support.

The expansion aims to modernise rural production, improve food security and keep youth in agricultural communities, aligning with President Luis Abinader’s broader development vision.