World Veterinary Day 2026: Celebrating the Guardians of Animal and Public Health By Tyreke G. Thomas-Horsford
Every year, on the last Saturday of April, the global community pauses to recognize one of the most critical yet often underappreciated professions—VETERINARY MEDICINE. Known as World Veterinary Day, this international observance highlights the invaluable contributions veterinarians make to animal health, human well-being, and sustainable development. In 2026, the day is observed on April 25, under the theme “Veterinarians: Guardians of Food and Health.”
Understanding World Veterinary Day
Established in 2000 by the World Veterinary Association, World Veterinary Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the diverse and essential roles veterinarians play in society.
While many associate veterinarians primarily with the treatment of pets, their responsibilities extend far beyond clinical care. Veterinarians are central to:
*Preventing and controlling animal diseases, including zoonotic diseases transmissible to humans
*Ensuring food safety and quality from farm to table
*Supporting livestock productivity and food security
*Advancing animal welfare and environmental sustainability
In essence, veterinarians operate at the intersection of animal health, public health, and economic resilience, making their work indispensable to modern society.
The 2026 Theme: Guardians of Food and Health
The 2026 theme, “Veterinarians: Guardians of Food and Health,” underscores the profession’s vital role in safeguarding global food systems and protecting public health.
Veterinarians ensure that food derived from animals is safe, nutritious, and responsibly produced. They monitor diseases, enforce biosecurity measures, and contribute to the prevention of outbreaks that could threaten both animal populations and human communities.
In an era marked by climate change, emerging diseases, and antimicrobial resistance, veterinarians are more critical than ever. Their expertise supports sustainable agriculture, strengthens food security, and enhances national and global health systems.
World Veterinary Day is more than a celebration—it is a reminder of the critical role veterinarians play in shaping a healthier, safer, and more sustainable world. From protecting animal welfare to ensuring the safety of the food we consume, veterinarians truly are guardians of food and health.
In Antigua and Barbuda, the work of the Veterinary & Livestock Unit exemplifies this global mission at a national level. Their dedication continues to support farmers, protect communities, and advance the country’s agricultural resilience.
As we commemorate this important day, let us recognize and appreciate the veterinarians who work tirelessly behind the scenes—protecting not just animals, but the very foundation of our health and food systems.
The Roles of the Veterinary & Livestock Unit in Antigua and Barbuda
In Antigua and Barbuda, the Veterinary & Livestock Unit within the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy plays a pivotal role in upholding the principles celebrated on World Veterinary Day.
This unit is responsible for safeguarding the nation’s animal health systems and supporting the agricultural sector through a range of essential services, including:
1. Animal Health and Disease Control
The Unit conducts routine surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment of animal diseases, ensuring early detection and rapid response to outbreaks. This protects both livestock populations and public health.
2. Livestock Development and Support
Through technical guidance and extension services, the Unit assists farmers in improving livestock production, enhancing food security, and strengthening the agricultural economy.
3. Food Safety and Inspection
Veterinary officers play a critical role in inspecting meat and other animal products, ensuring they meet health and safety standards before reaching consumers.
4. Public Education and Outreach
The Unit engages with farmers, schools, and the wider public to promote responsible animal care, biosecurity practices, and awareness of zoonotic diseases.
5. Animal Welfare Advocacy
Ensuring humane treatment of animals remains a core function, aligning with global standards and ethical practices.
Honouring World Veterinary Day in Antigua and Barbuda
In observance of World Veterinary Day, the Veterinary & Livestock Unit actively participates in initiatives that reflect the global theme while addressing national priorities. These activities may include:
Public awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of veterinarians in food safety and public health
Farm visits and community outreach programmes to educate livestock farmers on best practices.
School engagements to inspire the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Recognition of veterinary staff for their dedication and service to the nation.
Through these efforts, the Ministry not only celebrates the profession but also reinforces its commitment to strengthening veterinary services as a cornerstone of national development.
IICA – JOB OPPORTUNITY
From Bush to Bloom: AGHS Opens its Garden of Eden by Shenequa Williams
Returning to the grounds of Antigua Girls’ High School for the opening of its Agricultural Garden, named the Honey Bee’s Eden, was an emotional and surreal experience. As a past student, I remember when the space behind the school was nothing more than bushes, trees and overgrown greenery. Standing there now, surrounded by thriving crops and proud faces, I felt a deep sense of awe at how far this area has come.
The ceremony began with an opening prayer and introduction by Mrs. Jacobs before Rosalind Beazer/Principal warmly welcomed guests. In her remarks, she proudly reflected on the journey that brought the garden to life and the many hands that made it possible.
“We are very proud of you and very happy to have you here with us,” she said, as she acknowledged teachers, students, ancillary staff, parents and donors who worked tirelessly (often on weekends) to transform what was once a barren space into a productive farm.
A musical rendition by Adahna Henry and Kassidy Rodgers added a reflective and uplifting moment before Mrs. Nicolette Francis/Education Officer for Agricultural Science in the Ministry of Education, delivered congratulatory remarks. “It’s always exciting to visit a school garden and see the hard work and dedication of students, teachers and the school community,” she said. “Your hard work gives us hope that our future is bright.”
One of the most heartfelt moments came from student testimonials by Blessing Creese and Allayna Esprit. They shared how the once dull and uninviting area had been transformed into a welcoming space that sparked new interest in Agriculture Science.
Closing remarks and a vote of thanks were delivered by Ms. Denise Hodge/Head of the Agriculture Science Department, whose vision and determination drove the project from idea to reality. “We cannot be pushing for food security in our small nation and students don’t have a space to practice,” she shared. “This garden is a testament to teamwork and commitment.”
Department of the Blue Economy Participates in Youth Skills Training to Advance National Ocean Literacy Initiative
St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – April 2026 — The Department of the Blue Economy
proudly participated in the successful conclusion of the Youth Skills Certificate Training
of Trainers (ToT) in Green, Blue, and Circular Economies, hosted by the Department of
Youth Affairs in collaboration with UNICEF.
The two-day in-person training, held on April 13–14, 2026, formed part of a broader
regional initiative aimed at equipping professionals with the tools and methodologies
needed to deliver youth-centred training in sustainable economic sectors. The
programme focused on strengthening facilitation skills, enhancing understanding of
sustainability concepts, and preparing trainers to effectively implement the Youth Skills
Certificate curriculum across national contexts.
Representing the Department of the Blue Economy were Ms. Chenneika Whyte, Ms.
Robyne Browne, and Ms. Marver Woodley, who successfully completed the training and
are now certified to support the delivery of the programme locally.
Their participation comes at a critical time as the Department advances preparations for
a major national school-based initiative scheduled for launch in September 2026. This
initiative will target secondary school students in Forms 1–3 and aims to significantly
enhance ocean literacy and awareness among youth.
The upcoming programme forms a key component of the Department’s year-long public
engagement agenda focused on answering the question: “What is the Blue Economy?”
Through this initiative, students will be introduced to the principles of sustainable ocean
use, environmental stewardship, and emerging opportunities within the blue economy.
The Department extends its appreciation to the Department of Youth Affairs and UNICEF
for their leadership in delivering this important initiative and looks forward to continued
collaboration in advancing sustainable development and youth empowerment in Antigua
and Barbuda.
For more information, please contact:
marver.woodley@ab.gov.ag
+1268 562-9730
Marver Woodley
Senior Operations and Policy Manager
Department of the Blue Economy
Government of Antigua and Barbuda
GARDC’s Stakeholders Engage in Consultation on Gender Integration in Antigua and Barbuda’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – 11 April 2026 – A stakeholder consultation was
convened on Friday, 10 April 2026, to support the integration of gender considerations
into Antigua and Barbuda’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP).
The consultation formed part of an initiative supported by the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP) through the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership, with
funding from the government of Canada. The project is being implemented by the
Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development Center (GARDC).
The session brought together more than 30 participants representing government
agencies, civil society organizations, community groups, and biodiversity practitioners
to examine how gender perspectives can be more effectively reflected in biodiversity
planning and implementation across key sectors.
The consultation was facilitated by national consultant Mellissa Johnson, with
technical support from Refica Attwood, who assisted in stakeholder engagement,
coordination of consultation inputs, and documentation of perspectives shared during
the session. Together, the consultants guided discussions aimed at identifying gender
related challenges affecting participation in biodiversity initiatives, validating
stakeholder groups engaged in biodiversity management, and highlighting
underrepresented actors whose contributions are important to achieving national
biodiversity objectives.
Participants engaged in structured discussions exploring gender roles within
biodiversity sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, natural resource management, and
community-based conservation. The consultation also provided an opportunity to
identify barriers to participation, highlight opportunities for more inclusive engagement,
and strengthen stakeholder input into the ongoing gender analysis supporting the
NBSAP update process.
Several stakeholder groups were identified as requiring stronger representation in
biodiversity planning and implementation processes, including small-scale farmers,
fishers, artisans, backyard gardeners, beekeepers, persons with disabilities, older
community members, landowners, and development stakeholders. Participants also
emphasized the importance of strengthening enforcement of existing environmental
legislation to support improved biodiversity management outcomes.
Feedback gathered during the consultation will inform the identification of priority entry
points for gender integration within the updated NBSAP framework and support the
development of practical recommendations to strengthen inclusive biodiversity
governance in Antigua and Barbuda.
GARD continues to invite input from stakeholders across sectors through the
Institutional Mapping Survey being conducted as part of the gender analysis
supporting integration into the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
Stakeholders are encouraged to share their perspectives by completing the survey
using the QR code below.
The organizers expressed appreciation to all participants for their valuable
contributions to advancing inclusive and sustainable biodiversity planning in Antigua
and Barbuda. For additional support and information gathering, GARD asks for assistance in
completing the survey on Instructional Mapping by scanning the QR code below.
Agriculture Extension Division staff engaged in EMS Training by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
A one-day session was facilitated by Mr. Dale Joseph from the Emergency Medical Services (EMS), with the Agriculture Extension Division (AED) workers on Tuesday 31st March. Mr. Joseph shared a wealth of front-line experience and expertise in emergency response; ensuring that the AED staff, which comprised of seven technical field and two administrative staff is proficient in life-saving intervention.
According to Mr. Ika Fergus/Chief Extension Officer(ag), due to the nature of the work field officers are often taken into remote areas where challenging circumstances can occur. Therefore, in these settings where the distance between professional medical care and speedy response are crucial officers being trained can be significant. “So, the objective of this training was straightforward but profound: to ensure that if a colleague, a farmer, or a member of the public experiences a cardiac or respiratory crisis in our presence, we act with competence and composure rather than hesitation” explained Mr. Fergus.
Plans are currently in motion for several staff to participate in the advanced certificate-level training with the EMS over the coming months. Moreover, there are plans to include a parallel training component for farmers, ensuring that emergency preparedness becomes a pillar of our national agricultural resilience. This focus on First Aid and CPR proficiency remains a top priority for the AED’s professional development throughout the year.
CARDI SWEET POTATO WORKSHOP A PATHWAY TO GREAT YIELD by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
The Caribbean Agriculture Research and Development Institute (CARDI)Potato Workshop held today went very well according to Mr. Junior Green/CARDI representative for Antigua/Barbuda and Montserrat. In attendance were famers, Ministry of Agriculture employees such as extension officers, technicians and other stakeholders.
In the presentation, Mr. Green spoke on topics such as the physiology and the three phases of the plant growth, the benefits of knowing this information and how it should be utilized. Additionally, other important matters pertaining to the bio-stimulants and hormones were also demonstrated. “Basically, it was a good turn-out, but I wished more farmers would attend these sessions”, stated Mr. Green. After the presentation, the group visited the potato patch where a bio-stimulant trial is ongoing, and it is the intention to invite the participants to return when it is time to harvest thee tubers so that they can see the yield generated in the trial.
More of this type of training can be expected. Stay informed and be a part of the Food Security Campaign.
Coordinating Council on Agricultural Health and Food Safety for Antigua and Barbuda Signs MoU with the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus by Shenequa Williams
Coordinating Council on Agricultural Health and Food Safety for Antigua and Barbuda has taken another step toward strengthening national collaboration by formalising a partnership with the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The signing ceremony took place on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the UWIFIC Principal’s Conference Room. Although the Campus Principal was in a meeting at the time, the document was signed on behalf of the campus by Dr. Camille Samuel/Campus Registrar.
This partnership supports implementation of priority actions outlined in Antigua and Barbuda’s Agricultural Health and Food Safety (AHFS) Policy, which was gazette last year. The MoU is intended to formalise collaboration between the Council and the University as work continues to advance key areas of the national Action Plan originally developed under the 11th EDF Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) project. In remarks during the signing, Dr. Samuel emphasised the importance of strengthening the region’s food security and reducing dependence on imported foods. She highlighted the need to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Caribbean food and to provide students with practical opportunities in agriculture and food systems. She noted that the campus will rely on the Council’s support to help identify field stations, navigate regulatory and legislative requirements, and strengthen field extension work so students can gain meaningful hands-on experience.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, Dr. Janil Gore-Francis/Chief Plant Protection Officer underscored the importance of research, collaboration, and public engagement. She noted that the University’s research capacity will support data collection, analysis, and the development of sustainable interventions aligned with national priorities. She also highlighted the Council’s multi-sector membership, which includes representatives from fisheries, trade, customs, the Bureau of Standards, plant protection, public health, and livestock sectors, all working together to strengthen agricultural health and food safety systems. The signing was witnessed by Mr. Jonah Ormond/Secretary Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board and Mr. Ian Horsford/Chief Fisheries Officer, who joined in recognising the significance of the partnership.
The collaboration is expected to create opportunities for joint research, student engagement, policy dialogue, and community outreach initiatives, including activities that promote local food production and consumption. Both institutions expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and the shared commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable agricultural and food safety system for Antigua and Barbuda.
Orange! Are you Glad It’s International Carrot Day? by Shenequa Williams
Crunch time has arrived! Every year on April 4th, the world celebrates International Carrot Day, a day dedicated to one of the most versatile and vibrant vegetable around. While there is no official global theme announced for 2026, the celebration continues to focus on promoting healthy eating, sustainable agriculture, and appreciation for this humble yet powerful crop.
Carrots are more than just a snack for bunnies, they’re packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A to support good vision and immune health. They are also a versatile ingredient, used in everything from soups and juices to baked goods and fresh salads, proving that they are truly a staple in many cuisines.
Here in Antigua and Barbuda, carrots play a small but meaningful role in local agriculture. While much of the supply is imported, local farmers continue to explore opportunities to grow root crops like carrots, especially in cooler seasons and controlled environments. Initiatives through the Ministry of Agriculture encourage backyard gardening and crop diversification, helping residents “dig into” their own food production and boost Food Security.
International Carrot Day is also a great opportunity for schools, chefs, and home cooks across the islands to get creative. From carrot cakes and soups to fresh garden salads, the possibilities are endless! It’s a day to celebrate not just the vegetable, but the farmers who help bring it from soil to supper.
As we observe this day, it serves as a reminder of the role agriculture plays in our everyday lives and the importance of supporting both local farmers and healthy food choices.
