The Government of Canada is investing over $4.7 million on two community-led traditional food processing facilities that will help Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak residents access more local foods and strengthen food sovereignty in the region.
The Government of Canada is taking action to address local food accessibility and high prices in Nunavut. That means advancing reconciliation with Inuit by investing in food systems to strengthen community infrastructure, reduce dependance on imported foods, and lower costs for Nunavummiut.
Today, the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for CanNor, announced a federal contribution of more than $4.7 million to create country food processing facilities in Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak. This includes $3,389,736 in funding from CanNor, $831,550 from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and $566,038 from Crown-Indigenous Relations and Indigenous Services Canada.
The Gjoa Haven Country Food Processing Facility and the Niqihaqut Cut and Wrap Facility in Taloyoak will boost the local economy while helping meet the need for nutritious food. They will also offer opportunities for training and skill development, encouraging the next generation to learn about traditional and sustainable hunting and fishing practices.
These facilities are an Inuit solution to strengthening food security in Nunavut's Kitikmeot region.
By creating jobs, supporting local hunters and harvesters, and reducing reliance on southern imports, they help build stronger and more self-reliant northern communities. The projects support the Government of Canada's National Food Security Strategy by advancing Inuit food sovereignty and strengthening community-based food systems.
