Last Updated on April 26, 2024, 7:38 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis: The Minister of Agriculture, Samal Duggins highlighted the achievements of the agricultural sector at the opening ceremony of 29th Annual Agriculture Open Day on Thursday. The event is being held on April 25-26, 2024 at the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park.
The two-day fair is hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine resources under the theme, “Securing Our Future Through Sustainable Agriculture by 2025 and Beyond.”
The fair is celebrated to honour the achievements and exceptional contribution of farmers, agro-processors, fishers and small business operators in the development of agricultural sector.
Various people, including citizens and residents receives an opportunity to exchange discussion with the food producers of twin-island Federation and learn about the latest advanced technologies and trends in agriculture.
While address the agriculture sector as a lifeblood of the country, Minister Duggins asked the residents to embrace the positive outcomes of this sector as it an important part of the country’s future growth.
“It holds within it the power to revolutionise our economy, uplift communities and to safeguard our entire environment”, added Agricultural Minister.
Under the assistance and efforts of Minister Duggins, the Ministry of Agriculture is moving ahead with its 25 by 25 Food import Reduction Programme. This programme aims to reduce the country’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.
He further said that the mass display of agricultural produce at the two-day event is a testimony to the fact that this goal can be achieved if the farming and fishing community continues to receive the required support.
“For too long our small islands have been dependent on imports for our food security, leaving us vulnerable to price fluctuations, supply chain disruptions and a variety of other vulnerabilities, but we have the power to change this,” Duggins said.
While addressing the gathering at the Open Day, he emphasised the benefits of investing in agriculture, which will create many job opportunities for people. He said this will directly boost the economic sector of St. Kitts and Nevis.
The framing community was given a number of planting materials under the 25 by 25 Food Import Reduction Programme by the Ministry of Agriculture on Open Day.
The event was attended by various dignitaries such as Governor- general Dame Marcella Liburd, Geoffrey Hanley, Samal Duggins and members of the Federal Cabinet among others.
Recently, the Ministry of Agriculture has presented its Annual Review and Planning meeting on February 27, 2024, representing country’s 25 by 2025 agenda. The meeting was held under the theme, “Securing our Future for Sustainable Agriculture through Partnerships by 2025 and Beyond.”
Permanent Secretary of Agricultural Ministry, Miguel S Flemming stressed upon the need of multisectoral collaboration to achieve the goal of nutrition security. The authorities are implementing every possible measure for the sustainable development of the agriculture sector.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
