The Launched of PiAngo Fest 2022

After two (2) years of being dormant, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Barbuda Affairs (MAFBA) launched PiAngo Fest 2022 under the theme, “PiAngo Reloaded”.

This year for the very first time, PiAngo Fest will have title a sponsor in Caribbean Union Bank (CUB). Mr. Esron Gittens – Business Development Associate and Mr. Andre Marshall – Assistant Manager-Corporate Customer Relationships represented the bank.  Mr. Gittens in his address stated that they are elated to come on board and play their part as good corporate citizens and it is through this sponsorship that they show their support for the agriculture sector in Antigua and Barbuda and its goal of attaining food security.

“We see the importance of agriculture to the economic growth which has shown to be even more important with the current rising food prices globally and supply chain issues affecting food availability, this initiative will act as a further input as to revitalize the agriculture sector, following the global pandemic,” explained Mr. Gittens.  Mr. Gittens also stated that Caribbean Union Bank is not just a sponsor but wants to be a partner going forward and hopes to work even closer with farmers and the Agriculture sector to better food security for the nation.

The Ministry has also collaborated with Grant Joyce of Claremont Farms, who operates the largest pineapple farm on the island and will also be offering tours on both the days of the Fest, August 13th and 14th.

Special mention was made of the supporting Agricultural organizations the Inter-American Institute for Corporation on Agriculture (IICA) represented by National Specialist, Craig Thomas and Paul Lucas of the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) who are partners in this event. Presentations were given to the representatives of the Caribbean Union Bank for their partnership with the fest. ABS television crew were also gifted goodies for their continued support to the Ministry for all engagements.

This year there will be a Grill Off Competition, Mango and Pineapple eating competitions, Agro-Processors Competition, and a Goat Race. Registration forms for Vendors, Agro-Processors Competition, and Grill will be available from next week at MAFBA Headquarters.  Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Barbuda Affairs, Hon. Samantha Marshall declared PiAngo Fest 2022 officially Launched and encourages everyone to come out and support it.