New Insect‑Proof Net Technology Shows Promise for Pesticide‑Free Vegetable Farming in Antigua and Barbuda by Tyreke Thomas-Horsford.
St. John’s, Antigua — January 2026
A new, environmentally friendly method of growing vegetables without pesticides is showing strong promise in Antigua and Barbuda, following a successful field demonstration carried out under an agricultural cooperation programme between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China.
The trial, conducted in collaboration with the Crop Research & Development Division (CR&D) within the Ministry of Agriculture, utilised insect‑proof nets to protect vegetables from destructive pests — without relying on chemical pesticides. According to the project experts, the results indicate a major opportunity to improve local food safety, reduce production costs, and support more sustainable farming practices across the country.
A Simple Idea with Big Results
The technology, officially known as Light and Simplified Green Prevention and Control Technology for Plant Pests, relies on a straightforward principle: if insects are physically blocked from infesting crops, there is no need to kill them with chemicals.
Instead of spraying pesticides, farmers can utilize fine‑mesh insect‑proof nets to cover planting areas. These nets allow sunlight, air and rain to pass through but prevent common pests such as aphids, thrips, flea beetles, and diamondback moths from infesting the plants. “This method focuses on prevention rather than treatment,” explained Dr. Lu Jiaju, Associate Researcher at the Institute of Subtropical Crops, Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and lead technical instructor on the project. “If insects cannot reach the vegetables, they cannot damage them or spread diseases.”
Field Trial on Chinese Cabbage
The trial focused on Chinese cabbage, a popular leafy vegetable that is highly vulnerable to insect damage in tropical conditions.
Preparation began in early November 2025, with the field thoroughly cleaned to remove plant residues and weeds that could harbour pests. The soil was then solarized — covered with plastic and exposed to sunlight — to kill insect eggs and harmful organisms in the soil. After this process, an arched greenhouse structure covered with insect‑proof netting was constructed. The netting was sealed in a way that allowed insects emerging from the soil to exit but prevented new pests from entering once planting began. On November 27, cabbage seeds were sown and immediately covered with the insect‑proof nets. A nearby control plot was planted without nets and any application of pesticides, to allow for comparison.
Clear Difference at Harvest
When the first harvest took place on January 3, 2026, the contrast between the two plots were striking.
Cabbage grown under insect‑proof nets was healthy, uniform, and completely free from pest damage — achieved without any pesticide application. In comparison, the open‑field cabbage was almost entirely destroyed by insects. Officers from the Crop Research & Development Division who observed the trial at harvest confirmed the results, noting the potential impact this method could have if adopted more widely.
Safer Food, Higher Quality
Beyond preventing crop loss, the technology also improves vegetable quality. When plants are attacked by insects or exposed to pesticides, they often produce bitter compounds as a stress response. Vegetables grown under insect‑proof nets avoid this stress, resulting in better taste, texture, and appearance.
“Consumers want clean, safe food,” said one agricultural officer involved in the trial. “This technology help farmers meet that demand while protecting the environment.”
Broader Potential for Local Agriculture While the trial focused on cabbage, the insect‑proof net technology can also be used for other crops commonly grown in Antigua and Barbuda, including tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, watermelons, broccoli, napa cabbage, and cowpeas. The Ministry of Agriculture, through the CR&D Division, plans to continue evaluating the technology on additional crops and expand demonstration plots, including at the Bethesda agricultural base.
Looking Ahead
As part of the next phase of the agricultural assistance project, organizers plan to conduct training sessions for farmers, promote hands‑on demonstrations, and encourage gradual adoption of the technology. Although the initial investment in net structures is higher than traditional open‑field farming, experts emphasize that savings from reduced pesticide use and higher market prices for cleaner produce can quickly offset the costs. “This is a long‑term investment in our food system,” Dr. Lu said. “By working together with the Ministry of Agriculture, we can help farmers produce healthier vegetables and strengthen food security in Antigua and Barbuda.”
Electronic Bicycles Distributed to Support Agricultural and Inter-Agency Operations By: Tyreke Thomas-Horsford and Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
Between Monday 5th and Tuesday 6th January, the Agricultural Extension Division, within the Ministry of Agriculture officially distributed a set of electronic bicycles to two external government institutions as well as several of its out stations.
The electronic bicycles were allocated to the following agencies and locations:
1. The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF)
2. The Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS). The bicycle will be used by the new Antigua school of Agriculture located in Glanvilles.
3. The Ministry’s out stations to include its new Crop Research and Development Bethesda Station
This initiative forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to improving mobility, efficiency, and sustainability across agricultural operations and partner institutions. The bicycles will assist farmers, officers and staff in carrying out field visits, monitoring activities, and daily operational tasks more effectively, particularly within station environments.
The recipients expressed their appreciation and enthusiasm upon receiving the bicycles, noting that the addition of this machinery will significantly enhance their ability to perform duties such as transporting produce and animal feed in a timely and efficient manner on their farms and stations.
The Ministry of Agriculture continues to invest and collaborate with its partners in innovative and environmentally friendly solutions that strengthen service delivery and support national development across the agricultural sector and beyond. This timely donation was made courtesy of the People’s Government of Hainan Province, People’s Republic of China through the Antigua and Barbuda Chinese Embassy.
Students Showcased Creativity at MOALFBE 2025 World Food Day Poster Competition Award Ceremony by Brent Simon & Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
Young minds took centre stage as the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy (MOALFBE) hosted its 2025 World Food Day (WFD) Poster Competition Awards Ceremony, celebrating students’ creativity, awareness, and engagement in agriculture, food security, and the blue economy. The ceremony was held on Tuesday 30th December at the Fisheries Conference room with Mr. Tyreke Thomas-Horsford/Communications Officer was Master of Ceremonies.
Delivering the opening address was Mrs. Denise Matthias-Thomas/Principal Assistant Secretary (PAS) who delivered the welcome and underscored the Ministry’s beliefs “…. education must begin early and that our young people are key partners in shaping a resilient and food-secure future for our nation,” Mrs. Matthias-Thomas said.
She emphasized the Ministry’s solid commitment to strengthening the link between agriculture, fisheries, the environment and education, noting that initiatives such as the poster competition allow students to engage with real-world issues in meaningful ways. “It is our hope that this initiative will become a staple on the national calendar, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for agriculture and food security across the education system,” she added.
The overview of the competition was delivered by Mrs. Carol-Faye Bynoe-George, Head of Communication Unit. She explained that the initiative was launched in observance of World Food Day 2025, annually celebrated in October under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future”. According to Mrs. Bynoe-George the competition was open to government primary and secondary schools across Antigua and Barbuda, and was designed to raise awareness about food security, healthy eating, sustainable agriculture, fisheries and the blue economy.
“The students were invited to visually interpret the theme through original artwork that highlighted the role of agriculture, land use, fisheries, and the blue economy in shaping a sustainable future,” she explained.
Although participation was limited in this inaugural year, with three schools – two secondary and one primary – taking part, Mrs. Bynoe-George commended the students for their effort and their interpretations of the theme. “Most of you truly grasped the concept of the theme and what we were looking for. The level of creativity displayed was impressive, and we are confident participation will grow in future years.” she said.
Entries were judged on theme alignment, creativity and originality, clarity of message, relevance to Antigua and Barbuda, visual impact, accuracy, and overall presentation. The participants were then awarded with certificates of participation by Mr. Gregory Bailey / Director of Agriculture. Each participant received a certificate and commemorative gifts in recognition of their contribution.
The Certificates of Placement were presented to the winners by Mrs. Denise Matthias-Thomas.
Winners: Primary School Category – First Place:
Shaniyah Francis, T.N. Kirnon Primary School
Secondary School Category – First Place:
Gabriella Eusebe, All Saints Secondary School
Secondary School Category – Second Place:
Keairra Smith, All Saints Secondary School
Secondary School Category – Third Place
J’Shorna Appleton – Sir Novelle Richards Academy
Winning students also received gift certificates along with additional prizes.
Participating Schools – All Saints Secondary School, Sir Novelle Richards Academy, and Simon Bolivar Primary School – were also recognized and received certificates. Mrs. Nicolette Francis/Agricultural Science Education Officer at the Ministry of Education (MOE) collected those certificates on behalf of the schools. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Emerald David/SRI and Communications Officer, who expressed appreciation to the Ministry’s leadership, educators, parents, judges, and organizers for their collective support.
“Our students are at the heart of this initiative. Their creativity and thoughtful interpretations of the theme remind us why engaging our youth is essential to building a stronger, more sustainable future,” Ms. David added. The event ended with a photo session of the participants and their artworks.
MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE HELD CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR EMPLOYEES
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, held a staff Christmas party last Friday 19th December on its headquarters ground located on Independence Drive. This timely socializing provided a welcome break from the usual work routine and an opportunity for staff bonding. The event was well stocked with refreshments, music, and board games, creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere among the employees and management.
The Honourable Minister Anthony Smith Jr., and Mr. Walter Christopher/Permanent Secretary engaged with the all the workers that were in attendance which added to the significance of the gathering, signalling leadership’s appreciation for staff morale and workplace camaraderie.
This informal setting allowed colleagues to interact freely, strengthening interpersonal relationships and reinforcing a sense of unity within the Ministry. In plain terms: good vibes, good company, and a reminder that a functional team isn’t built on memos alone.
Agriculture On the Move – Backyard Gardening Competition Launched by Brent Simon & Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
On Thursday 16th December, the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy (MALFBE) hosted a press conference and formally launched the Backyard Gardening (BYG) Competition at the Point Wharf Fisheries Complex. This debriefing was chaired by Ms. Carol Faye Bynoe-George/Head of MALFBE Communications Unit.
The welcome was delivered by Mr. Walter Christopher/Permanent Secretary who stated that the initiative is aimed squarely at reducing the country’s dependence on imported food while contributing to food security. Noting that backyard and community gardening function as a form of social protection, he explained that household food production provides an economic buffer during period of economic uncertainty and global food price spikes. The PS noted that this is highly commendable, while emphasizing that the overarching goal is for every household in the twin-island state to establish a backyard garden and proudly stated that to date, more than 600 households have already registered.
Providing the project overview, Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture outlined the scope and intent of the competition, positioning it as a practical, household-level intervention designed to boost local food production, encouraged participation across communities and build long term resilience. According to the Director from as early as 2008 this initiative was introduced and by 2015 there was approximately 450 backyard gardeners on record. “Today, the Agricultural Extension Division manages a database of nearly 700 active, registered gardeners. Backyard gardening has evolved into a structured, nationally recognized movement, celebrated each year on April 21st as “National Backyard Garden Day”. Beyond household food security, some gardeners have generated enough raw material to develop cottage agro-processing businesses, demonstrating entrepreneurial capacity. On our sister island, backyard gardens have been central to recovery since Hurricane Maria, showing how this practice builds resilience. As we gather today, the implementation of this backyard gardening community initiative is already being rolled out. Planting materials are being procured, registration is ongoing and the full details regarding the criteria for judging will be made public, in the very near future” Mr. Bailey submitted.
The feature remarks were delivered by Hon. Anthony Smith Jr./ Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, who announced that the competition is now re-branded under the “Plant2Plate Antigua & Barbuda Initiative”. The Minister highlighted the country’s vulnerability arising from heavy reliance on imported food and underscored the need for proactive measures to strengthen local food production systems. He explained that the theme for this year’s progamme, “Homegrown Today, Food Secured Tomorrow,” captures the essence of the initiative – transforming backyards into productive spaces that support families, communities, and the national economy. Each garden, he noted, represents a meaningful step towards reducing imports, fostering economic activity, and building a core for a self-sufficient Antigua and Barbuda. The Minister further announced enhanced incentives and prize money for participants and introduced a new optional component, the “Cook What You Grow” Culinary Showcase. This addition category allows participants to prepare and present dishes using produce harvested from their home gardens, reinforcing the full Plate2Plate concept from production to consumption while celebrating innovation and culinary creativity.
During the ceremony, Hon. Anthony Smith Jr. Also unveiled the new Plant2Plate logo, describing it as a symbol of collective commitment to a more food-secure, sustainable and self-reliant future. He urged the public to see the competition not merely as an event, but as a movement toward lasting change.
More details pertaining to the competition to include the adjudication criteria and the vote of thanks were delivered by Ms. Marcelle Freeland/Chairperson BYG Committee. She expressed special recognition of Ms. Efuru Elihu and Mr. Ayo Simon (backyard garden facilitators), the support staff of the Agricultural Extension Division and the other BYG Competition Committee members (Ms Carol-Faye Bynoe-George, Mr. Ika Fergus and Mr. Oriel Walter) . In closing she further extended profound appreciation for both farmers and gardeners whose participation is critical in shaping the nations agricultural sector and future.
The launch serves a s a clear call to action: get hands in the soil, plant the seeds, and join a national effort to cultivate a greener more resilient Antigua and Barbuda – One yard, One plate, One nation.
EAG Conducts Socioeconomic Survey on Potential Return of the Antigua Racer Snake to the Mainland by Brent Simon
At a recently Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) consultation Mrs. Camelia Wallace-Tongue/Senior Forestry Officer, Mr. Sebastian Cochrane/Nursery Technician and Mr. Brent Simon/Communications Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy. This meeting was the first of a series of consultations that was conducted by Socioeconomic Consultant Miss Christell Chesney and Offshore Islands Conservation Programme Coordinator Shanna Challenger of the EAG to advance a socioeconomic survey on the possible reintroduction of the Antigua Racer to the mainland.
The conversation addressed the benefits of restoring a critically important native species and the very real concerns of farmers, communities, and other stakeholders who would be directly affected. The team explored potential risks, land-use implications, and the level of public awareness and engagement needed if the species is ever to return safely and successfully to mainland Antigua. Additionally, the discussion addressed the areas where the Ministry of Agriculture could support the initiative through technical expertise, field work and capacity-building opportunities.
This survey is part of a wider effort to understand how conservation goals can align with local livelihoods in Antigua and Barbuda. As part of their study, more stakeholder input will be gathered from government bilateral meetings, community consultations and a nationwide questionnaire as the EAG refines its assessment and maps the next steps.
Antigua & Barbuda participated in an Interregional Dialogue on Phasing Out Highly Hazardous Pesticides
Proud moment for Antigua and Barbuda – Deputy-Registrar of Pesticides & Toxic Chemicals, Petranilla Estreada, represented our nation at the Interregional Dialogue on Phasing Out Highly Hazardous Pesticides (12–14 Nov 2025, Harare). Regulators from Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific validated a regional HHP strategy, shared best practices for risk assessment and mitigation, and mapped future road-maps to phase out HHPs while promoting safer alternatives.
This is a major step toward harmonized pesticide regulation, stronger regional cooperation, and healthier communities and ecosystems.
Congratulations to all participants — together we’re protecting people, trade and biodiversity.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & CITIZENS ENGAGEMENT DIVISION HOSTED ITS 14TH AWARD CEREMONY by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
December 13th, 2025
Last night, the Community Development and Citizens Engagement Division within the Ministry of Social Transformation hosted its 14th award ceremony for the Community Home and Garden Festival at the American University of Antigua (AUA).
This 2025 competition had over eighty Participants but due to the inclement weather conditions that number dwindle to sixty who competed in six different categories.
The names of the winners are as follows:
Best Kept Community
1st Place Winner – Fitches Creek – East Zone
2nd Place – Five Islands Community – West Zone
Overall Herbs & Spices – (Residential)
1st place winner – Irene Edwards – East Zone
2nd Place winner – Henry Harris – North Zone
3rd Place Winner – Joy Meade – West Zone –
Overall Fruits & Vegetables – (Residential)
1st Place Winner – Rhyves & Nia Knowles – East Zone
2nd Place Winner – Birchfield Osbourne – North Zone
3rd Place Winner – Annette Richards – West Zone
BUSINESS CATEGORY
Flower Garden
1st Place Winner – Indies Green – West Zone
2nd Place Winner – Silva Buttons – North Zone
WATER GARDEN
1st Place Winner – Indies Green – West Zone
HERB & SPICE
1st Place Winner – Lions Club Community Garden
Stone & Ornamental – Residential
1st Place Winner – Carol Lewis – South Zone
2nd Place Winner – Irene Edwards – East Zone
3rd Place Winner – Birchfield Osbourne – North Zone
Business Category – Overall Fruit & Vegetable
2nd Place Winner – Foundation Faith Tutorial – North Zone $500.00
Flower Garden (Residential)
1st Place Winner – Rhyves & Nia Knowles – East Zone $700.00
2nd Place Winner – Ivor & Ileen Lawrence – South Zone
3rd Place Winner – Anthony Mapp – Barbuda
Overall Water Garden
1st Place Winner – Rhyves & Nia Knowles – East Zone $700.00
2nd Place Winner – Henry Harris – North Zone
The CD&CED would like to extend profound gratitude to the participants, sponsors, other supporting ministries and stakeholders for their unwavering cooperation and support.
GARD Centre Celebrates Achievement at Closing Ceremony By Tyreke Thomas-Horsford
The Gilbert Agricultural & Rural Development (GARD) Centre hosted its Closing Ceremony on Thursday, 11th December, 2025, at the Freeman’s Ville Methodist Church, Freeman’s Village, marking the successful completion of another year of skills training, empowerment, and community development.
The ceremony was smoothly chaired by Master of Ceremonies – Ms. Jacqueline Yearwood, a member of the GARD Centre Board, who guided proceedings with warmth and professionalism. The event opened with an invocation by Reverend Mauroise – Circuit Minister of the Antigua Circuit, setting a reflective and thankful tone for the occasion. Words of welcome were delivered by Reverend Jacqueline Liddell – Connexional Secretary of the MCCA and Secretary of the GARD Centre Board of Directors, who highlighted the Centre’s continued commitment to uplifting individuals and communities through practical education.
A spirit of celebration filled the church as all in attendance joined in singing the hymn “Joy to the World.” Congratulatory remarks followed from the Director of Agriculture – Mr. Gregory Bailey of the Ministry of Agriculture, who commended the graduates for their dedication and acknowledged the GARD Centre’s vital role in national development. Words of encouragement were also shared by Mr. Joseph Prosper – Member of the National Steering Committee of the GEF Small Grants Programme–UNDP Antigua and Barbuda, who emphasized resilience, sustainability, and the importance of community-driven initiatives.
Mrs. June Jackson – Executive Director of the GARD Centre, presented a comprehensive review of projects, outlining the Centre’s impact and progress over the period. An address to the graduates was delivered by Ms. Gina Sanguinette-Phillips -Technical Assistance Manager, Team CCRIF SPC (online), who encouraged graduates to apply their new skills confidently and responsibly. Musical selections were rendered by Ms. Sharice Tonge, adding a reflective and celebratory touch to the programme.
The feature address was delivered by Mr. Randy Baltimore- St. Phillip Caretaker, who applauded the graduates and reaffirmed support for community-based training initiatives that strengthen livelihoods and promote sustainable development.
Certificates were presented to all graduates who successfully completed courses in: Office Administration with Customer Service; Hydroponics Training and Management for Schools; Hydroponics Training and Management for Women; Beginners Sewing; Vetiver for Sustainable Farming, Soil Conservation and Water Management; Vetiver Grass as an Ecosystem-Based Adaptation Strategy; Crafting and By-Product Development with Vetiver Grass; Horticulture Level I; Intermediate Sewing; and Soap Making. Certificates were also presented to participating schools, including Pares Secondary School and Sir Novelle Richards Academy.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Joycelyn Humphreys – Life Skills Facilitator, who expressed gratitude to the facilitators, partners, graduates, and supporters whose contributions made the programme a success.
The GARD Centre Closing Ceremony served as a proud reminder of the power of education, partnership, and perseverance in building stronger individuals and more resilient communities.
Ministry of Agriculture Honours Plant Protection Veterans for Over 40 Years of Service by Brent Simon
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy formally honoured two stalwarts of the Plant Protection Division—Mrs. Ireatha Thomas-Hunte and Mr. Alexander “Wilbur” Simmons—during a retirement recognition ceremony celebrating more than four decades of dedicated public service.
The event marked the end of an era for the Ministry, as both retirees devoted the majority of their working lives to safeguarding Antigua and Barbuda’s agriculture sector, biodiversity and food security.
During her congratulatory remarks, Dr Jamil Gore-Francis – Chief Plant Protection Officer expressed her gratitude to the retirees for unwavering commitment to national service, noting that between them, they represent over 40 years of institutional knowledge, field experience, and frontline protection of the country’s agricultural systems.
A Legacy of Vigilance and Mentorship
Mrs. Thomas-Hunte began her career in Plant Protection in 1984, at a time when modern quarantine systems were still in their infancy. Rising through the ranks from ground-level inspection work, she became a frontline defender against invasive pests and plant diseases, responding to reports from homeowners and farmers alike.
As Antigua and Barbuda’s plant protection framework evolved, Mrs. Thomas-Hunte moved to the front lines at ports of entry, working closely with customs and immigration to ensure that no unauthorized plant material or pests threatened national food security.
Her role extended beyond inspections; she became a mentor to generations of officers, helping shape the standards and discipline that define the Division today.
Her service strengthened national resilience and quietly protected the country through periods of global upheaval, economic instability, climate challenges, and the COVID-19 Pandemic.
An Unsung Hero of Plant Protection
Mr. Alexander Simmon—affectionately known across the Ministry as “Wilbur”—began his Plant Protection journey in 1985, long before terms like “biosecurity” and “food systems resilience” entered everyday conversation.
Over the course of 40 years, Wilbur served as an all-rounder that involved being a pest control operator, field inspector, driver, and ground operations officer, navigating every corner of the island in defense of local agriculture. His work during closed cotton seasons, pest control operations, and station-based inspections played a critical role in protecting key crops and preserving biodiversity.
Described as an unsung hero, Wilbur consistently avoided the spotlight yet remained an essential part of the country’s first line of agricultural defense. His retirement in August leaves the Division stronger than he found it—a hallmark of true public service.
The well-wishers encouraged both retirees to embrace retirement not as an end, but as the beginning of a new chapter—one marked by rest, reflection, and well-earned freedom. While no longer inspecting fields or ports of entry, they were reminded that their legacy lives on in the systems they helped build and the officers they trained.
On behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, heartfelt thanks were extended to Mrs. Thomas-Hunte and Mr. Alexander Simmons by both the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Walter Christopher, and the Director of Agriculture, Mr. Gregory Bailey, for their decades of service to Antigua and Barbuda.
As one speaker aptly noted, retirement may mean
