Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance Workshop by Shenequia Williams and Brent Simon

Today, the Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development Center (GARD Center) hosted a crucial workshop on Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI), aimed at addressing the vulnerabilities of farmers and fisherfolk to natural disasters and economic shocks. Held at the Fisheries Complex starting at 9:45 A.M, the session welcomed stakeholders from across sectors, including government representatives, insurance providers, and members from fishing and farming communities.

Although the consultation was a similar to the one held in March, this one had mainly fisherfolk unlike the previous one which had mainly farmers.  The participants were encouraged to remain open-minded and to actively engage. Mrs. Angela Ephraim/Senior Administrative Assistant for GARDC, in her welcome and opening remarks assured attendees that unanswered questions would be addressed in follow-up communications. 

Carol-Faye Bynoe-George/Head of Communications for the Ministry of Agriculture was the moderator of the workshop and highlighted the Ministry of Agriculture’s full support for the GARDC and assured the ministry’s endorsement of the CDRFI initiative. She acknowledged GARD Center’s leadership and longstanding partnership with the ministry, emphasizing the urgency of establishing sustainable insurance solutions for farmers and fishers. “We are closer to our goal of getting effective insurance coverage for our fisherfolk and farmers,” said Bynoe-George, praising GARD for stepping up to lead the effort.

The first presentation was delivered by Mr. Ogden Browne of Sagicor, who underscored the importance of financial planning, discipline, and sacrifice in securing personal and family well-being. Browne shared a personal story about how pre-arranged life insurance policies helped his family handle the unexpected loss of both parents just 11 days apart. “From the day we are born, we are one day closer to death,” he said. “If we don’t put things in place, we risk leaving our families in financial turmoil.” Mr. Browne’s message is to proactively secure insurance policies, especially in high-risk sectors like agriculture and fishing.

Another main presenter at this forum was Mr. Christon Herbert representing the CPDC.  In his presentation he disclosed important information pertaining to the work and grounds covered thus far in obtaining adequate coverage.  Additionally, he explained the types of insurance coverages are available and the differences in the coverages they offer.   Other presentations were done by Mr. Delbert Baptiste of ABI Insurance and Mr. Junior Greene of CARDI.

The concerns of the fishing community were particularly pointed out. Several fisherfolk voiced their frustration that despite years of fishing and ownership of expensive equipment, they still lack access to reliable insurance coverage for their boats, gear, and livelihoods. One participant from the fishing community noted, “It is inconceivable that I own a fishing vessel which has built me a house and bought me a car, both of which are insured and most times I pay the premiums with monies I earn from the boat, you mean to tell me in 2025, I still can’t get marine insurance in Antigua? It’s like we’re invisible!”

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the high-risk classification of fishing by insurance companies. This deters insurers from offering affordable premiums and deters fisherfolk from even attempting to pursue coverage. The discussion also touched on the role of fisher cooperatives and their ability (or lack thereof) to advocate for group coverage. Some participants admitted to being part of the co-op but lacked the information or influence to initiate formal negotiations with insurance companies.

The fishermen, however, were not only engaged in the discourse but also brought a draft policy proposal, which was presented to the insurers present for their review and hopefully, approval. The Safe Catch Fisher Insurance – Pilot Program Proposal, was well received by those present and assurances were made by the insurance representatives that they would forward the proposal to their relative boards.  It is anticipated that both entities will meet shortly to negotiate policies and premiums that would be beneficial for both sides.

The session closed with calls for unity among fisherfolk and farmers, encouraging them to organize and demand tailored insurance products that reflect their unique needs. Insurance representatives acknowledged the complexity of the sector but urged the community to bring structured proposals and demonstrate cohesion in order to negotiate effectively. “Insurance companies are risk-averse by nature,” one attendee commented. “But when we show that we’re organized and understand what we need, we strengthen our case.”

The CDRFI workshop served as both an informative session, highlighting the urgent need for accessible, and hopefully affordable insurance for farmers and fisherfolk. It also underscored the power of shared experience and collective advocacy in driving systemic change. As one participant aptly concluded, “This isn’t just about paperwork or premiums — it’s about protecting livelihoods, families, and futures.”