All Saints West MP and Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Anthony Smith, outlined his ambitious vision for transforming agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda.
As the year draws to a close, Smith appearing on Pointe FM yesterday, noted the vital role of agriculture in bolstering the nation’s economy, ensuring food security, and creating sustainable opportunities for local farmers.
Minister Smith stressed the importance of reducing the country’s dependence on imported goods by increasing domestic agricultural production.
“We must position ourselves to feed our population sustainably,” he said, noting that rising global food prices and supply chain disruptions highlight the need for self-reliance.
Upcoming initiatives include expanding local crop production, incentivizing livestock farming, and modernizing food storage facilities to reduce waste and maintain year-round supply.
Recognizing the challenges faced by farmers, Smith announced plans to improve access to affordable resources, such as fertilizers, seeds, and modern farming equipment.
The government will also be introducing training programs to help farmers adopt innovative techniques, including hydroponics and climate-resilient farming practices. “Our farmers are the backbone of agriculture, and empowering them is key to achieving our goals,” Smith stated.
A key component of the ministry’s strategy is integrating technology into the agricultural sector. Smith revealed plans to pilot digital platforms that connect farmers directly with markets, reducing middlemen and increasing farmers’ profits.
Additionally, the ministry will explore renewable energy solutions, such as solar-powered irrigation systems, to make farming more efficient and environmentally sustainable.
The Minister underscored the potential of agriculture to revive rural communities, particularly in areas like All Saints West. By fostering agri-tourism and value-added production, such as processing local crops into jams, sauces, and snacks, the ministry aims to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in underserved areas. “Agriculture isn’t just about farming; it’s about building a robust economic ecosystem that benefits everyone,” Smith explained.
Smith highlighted the importance of partnerships with regional and international organizations. He pointed to ongoing collaborations with CARICOM and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to secure technical expertise and funding for local projects.
The ministry also plans to engage schools and youth organizations to cultivate interest in agriculture among younger generations.
The minister is calling for collective action to prioritize agriculture in the national development agenda. “This is not just a ministry initiative; it requires the involvement of every citizen. Together, we can create a resilient, food-secure Antigua and Barbuda,” he said.
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Could we please get the report on what you were sent there for?
Put it in the paper, put it on line, or wherever, but we need your report.
You are being paid for work you have not done. That’s a shame.
Better late than never. I guess. Let’s see what becomes of this.
To get things rolling quickly, perhaps the homeless and unemployed men wandering around the streets could be offered work on community farms or private startups. Also, perhaps currently unemployed disabled persons who have to rely on small sims from social security to make ends meet could get some part time employment helping out with the food processing plants (meaning simple healthy processing involving bottling and canning not adding unnecessary chemical additives). There might be some not too demanding tasks they could help with alongside regular able-bodied workers.
Same bull, goat, cow, horse, donkey, fowl, rabbit shit pouring on the people like fertilizer for the past forty years.