World Soil Day by Shenequa Williams

World Soil Day, celebrated every December 5th, raises awareness about the vital role soil plays in sustaining life on Earth. This year’s theme, “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage,” highlights the importance of understanding soil health and taking proactive steps to protect it for future generations.
In Antigua and Barbuda, we are advancing soil sustainability through the Soil Care Phase 1 Initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This initiative, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), focuses on sustainable land management practices to address soil degradation and boost resilience to climate change. Along with this initiative, the FAO organized and hosted a Soil Doctor Training.
Healthy soils are essential for growing staple crops like sweet potatoes, cassava, and vegetables and fruits such as mangoes, eggplants, and pineapples. However, challenges like soil erosion, salinization, and nutrient depletion threaten agricultural productivity. The project empowers farmers and stakeholders with tools to measure and monitor soil health. Training in techniques such as composting, crop rotation, and water conservation ensures better management of soil fertility.
On World Soil Day, the public is encouraged to reduce the use of harmful chemicals, and support conservation projects like these. By caring for soils today, Antigua and Barbuda can ensure a healthier, more productive, and more resilient tomorrow.