
Antigua’s Plan to Overcome Water Scarcity for Agricultural Growth
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has outlined a comprehensive strategy to address water scarcity in Antigua and Barbuda, emphasizing the construction of dams, investment in irrigation systems, and the provision of reliable water sources to support sustainable farming. Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne stressed the critical need to enhance water availability for agriculture to boost food security and reduce dependence on imports.
“One of the biggest challenges to farming in Antigua and Barbuda is water access,” Browne stated. “If we are serious about growing our agricultural sector, we must invest in the necessary infrastructure to ensure that farmers have a consistent and affordable water supply.”
The Prime Minister highlighted government-led initiatives to construct additional dams and water storage facilities across the island, allowing farmers to better withstand periods of drought. He also noted that strategic placement of irrigation systems would help optimize water usage, ensuring that crops and livestock receive adequate hydration without excessive waste.
Browne stressed the importance of proper land selection for farming, urging new agricultural ventures to be established in areas with access to water sources or where irrigation infrastructure can be feasibly developed. He pointed out that simply allocating land for farming without ensuring water availability is ineffective and counterproductive.
“We need to take a scientific approach to agriculture,” Browne explained. “That means ensuring that new farms are located in areas where water resources are accessible, or that they are supported with proper irrigation and dam infrastructure.”
The Prime Minister also announced plans to acquire additional long-boom excavators to assist in dam construction and water retention projects. This investment, he said, will support the country’s broader efforts to make farming more viable and attract greater investment in the sector.
With climate change increasing the frequency of droughts and water shortages, Browne emphasized that long-term water security is essential for Antigua and Barbuda’s economic resilience. He encouraged local farmers to adopt sustainable water management practices, including rainwater harvesting and soil moisture conservation techniques, to further mitigate the impacts of water scarcity.

Browne reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that agricultural development remains a priority. By securing reliable water access for farming, Antigua and Barbuda can improve food self-sufficiency and reduce its reliance on imported goods, strengthening national economic stability.
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