Apiculture Sector in Antigua and Barbuda Sees Remarkable Growth and Opportunity by Shenequa Williams
The apiculture sector in Antigua and Barbuda is experiencing a period of strong growth and transformation, with significant progress recorded between 2023 and 2026. What began as a targeted intervention to support beekeepers has evolved into a thriving movement, strengthening both production and participation across the twin-island nation.
According to Richard Matthias/President of the Iyanola Apiculture Collective, beekeepers who were initially engaged in the programme have achieved impressive results over the past three years. Many have doubled the number of colonies under their management, while others have gone even further, tripling their hive counts. This expansion has translated directly into increased honey production and a more robust apiculture industry overall.
Beyond production gains, one of the most inspiring outcomes has been the ripple effect within the community. Matthias noted that experienced beekeepers have actively mentored and introduced new individuals into the sector, sharing knowledge and building confidence among newcomers. This organic growth has led to a notable rise in the number of beekeepers, ensuring that the industry continues to expand sustainably.
A particularly significant highlight is the status of Barbuda, which remains free of Varroa mites, a major threat to bee populations worldwide. Ongoing monitoring and virology studies have also revealed minimal presence of harmful viruses, positioning Barbuda as a rare and valuable environment for apiculture.
Matthias emphasized that this unique status presents a major opportunity. He advocates for establishing Barbuda as a protected sanctuary for bee breeding, including the development of a queen-rearing facility. Such an initiative could support the cultivation of high-quality bee strains in a pristine environment, with the potential to supply not only Antigua but also other islands across the Eastern Caribbean.
He further suggested that partnerships with regional organizations, such as the OECS Commission, could help secure the technical expertise and financial resources needed to bring this vision to life, while also creating sustainable livelihoods for Barbudans.
Encouragingly, early steps toward this goal are already underway. Local beekeepers, including Jerome Scotland and Jamal Phillip, have begun queen rearing efforts, successfully expanding their own colonies and supplying bees to others entering the industry.
While there have been some challenges, such as delays in accessing Varroa management supplies, the project has adapted, and monitoring programmes are now back on track, with new data expected in the coming weeks.
Overall, Matthias concluded that the progress made between 2023 and 2026 signals a very positive trajectory for apiculture in Antigua and Barbuda. With more colonies, more honey, and more people involved than ever before, the sector stands as a clear example of how strategic support and community engagement can yield lasting, meaningful impact.
International Day of Seeds by Shenequa Williams
When we think about transforming our food systems, strengthening our communities, and protecting our future, we don’t have to look far, we can start with something as small as a seed. International Day of Seeds is our reminder that every harvest, every meal, and every thriving farm begins with that tiny but powerful starting point.
International Day of Seeds is celebrated on April 26 each year to raise awareness about the importance of seeds, advocate for farmers’ rights, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
While there isn’t one official global theme each year, we can focus on what truly matters: seed sovereignty, biodiversity, and food security. These aren’t just big words, they directly affect how we grow our food and sustain our livelihoods.
Here in Antigua and Barbuda, we understand the importance of seeds more than ever. As we continue to push for greater food security, many of us are turning to backyard gardening, school plots, and national initiatives like “Plant 2 Plate.” When we plant, we’re not just growing crops, we’re building resilience and reducing our dependence on imports.
We also have a responsibility to protect and preserve our local and traditional seed varieties. These seeds are already adapted to our Caribbean climate, making them vital as we face changing weather patterns. By saving and sharing seeds within our communities, we keep our agricultural heritage alive while preparing for the future.
International Day of Seeds invites all of us to take action. Whether we plant a few seeds in our backyard, support local farmers, or simply learn more about where our food comes from, every step counts.
Let’s celebrate the power in our hands, because when we plant a seed, we’re not just growing food, we’re growing a stronger, more sustainable Antigua and Barbuda.
World Earth Day: A Call to Protect, Preserve and Lead by Tyreke G. Thomas-Horsford
Every year on April 22nd, the world pauses to recognize World Earth Day—a moment that reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect the only home we have. But Earth Day is more than a date on the calendar; it is a global movement, a call to action and a powerful reminder that the future of our planet depends on the choices we make today.
Our environment is speaking to us—through rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, coral reef degradation and increasing natural disasters. For small island developing states like those in the Caribbean, the effects of climate change are not distant threats; they are present realities. Coastal erosion, stronger hurricanes and threats to biodiversity are impacting livelihoods, economies and ecosystems in ways we can no longer ignore.
Earth Day challenges us to reflect not only on the problems but also on the solutions. It asks each of us—leaders, citizens, youth and communities—to step forward and play our part. Protecting our planet does not always require grand gestures; it begins with simple intentional actions. Reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting sustainable practices and educating others are all meaningful steps toward change.
However, real transformation happens when awareness turns into leadership. We must move beyond conversations and into commitment. Governments must strengthen environmental policies, organizations must adopt sustainable operations and communities must unite in collective action. Most importantly, young people must be empowered as environmental stewards equipped with the knowledge and opportunities to drive innovation and advocacy.
As we observe World Earth Day, let us remember that the Earth does not belong to us—we belong to the Earth. The responsibility we carry is not just for ourselves, but for future generations who will inherit the consequences of our decisions.
Let this Earth Day be a turning point. Let it inspire us to act boldly, think sustainably, and lead responsibly. Because when we protect the Earth, we are ultimately protecting our future.
The time to act is now. The Earth is counting on us.
Building Ocean Literacy Through Youth Engagement
The Department of the Blue Economy was proud to support students of Antigua Girls’ High School and St. Joseph’s Academy during Round 3 of the Caribbean Union Bank Inter-Secondary School Debate Series, on Tuesday 20th April 206.
Debating the moot —
“Antigua and Barbuda has enough border protection to secure its blue economy”— students explored the critical link between national security, ocean governance, and sustainable economic development. Conversations like these are at the heart of strengthening
ocean literacy and deepening public understanding of what the
Blue Economy truly means for our nation.
Through its ongoing What is the Blue Economy? campaign, the Department remains committed to showing up, engaging youth, and creating spaces where young people can think critically about the future of our marine resources and their role in shaping it.
Representing the Department, Marver Woodley joined teachers and coaches in supporting and encouraging these emerging leaders.
CARDI Agriculture Upcoming Events
Date: April 10th–12th, 2026
Bahamas. Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources
Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries – Trinidad and Tobago
14th, 15th, 16th & 21st April, 2026
This week’s NATI cohort is driving practical impact through hands-on training in Home Gardening, Pineapple Production, and Mango Product Development, equipping participants with the skills to grow, add value and thrive in agriculture.
Take the next step. Register now and be part of building a more food-secure Trinidad and Tobago:
National Agriculture and Trade Show 2026 – BELIZE
Date: 30 April – 3 May 2026
Theme: “Advancing Smart Agriculture: Building a Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Belizean Food System.” Hosted by Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries
Agriculture Open Day and Marine Expo 2026 – ST KITTS AND NEVIS Date:
IICA – JOB OPPORTUNITY
The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Delegation in Barbados, is inviting applications for a Project Officer under the European Union’s (EU) Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Support Programme: Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures Action.
The Project Officer will assist with the overall implementation of the SPS Measures Action including, but not limited to procurement, logistical coordination, planning, reporting as well as monitoring and evaluating interventions in order to ensure the attainment of project targets.
More details are available in the public announcement.
Application deadline: May 11, 2026
International Bat Day: Celebrating Antigua & Barbuda’s Silent Guardians By: Tyreke G Thomas-Horsford
Every year on International Bat Day, the world pauses to recognize one of nature’s most misunderstood yet essential creatures—the bat. In Antigua and Barbuda,
this day carries special meaning, as bats are not just part of the ecosystem—they are the only native terrestrial mammals found on the islands.
Often feared or overlooked, bats are in fact environmental heroes. Through ongoing public education, including valuable insights shared by Forestry Officer Mrs. Camellia Wallace-Tonge, residents are learning just how critical these animals are to maintaining the balance of nature across Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda host a fascinating community of seven to eight bat species, each playing a distinct ecological role. From fruit-eaters to insect-hunters, these species ensure the survival of forests, farms, and even human health.
The Greater Bulldog Bat (Noctilio leporinus) feeds on fish and aquatic life, while the Jamaican Fruit Bat (Artibeus jamaicensis) plays a vital role in dispersing seeds for forest regeneration. The Antillean Fruit-eating Bat (Brachyphylla cavernarum) contributes as both a pollinator and seed disperser, and the Lesser Antillean Long-tongued Bat (Monophyllus plethodon) is essential for pollinating night-blooming plants.
Insect-eating species such as the Funnel-eared Bat (Natalus stramineus), Brazilian Free-tailed Bat (Tadarida brasiliensis), and Velvety Free-tailed Bat (Molossus molossus) help control insect populations, including mosquitoes and agricultural pests.
Bats are considered keystone species, meaning their presence is essential for a healthy ecosystem. Many plants in Antigua rely on bats for pollination—especially those that bloom at night, such as the silk cotton tree (Ceiba pentandra). Without bats, these plants would struggle to reproduce.
Fruit bats also play a major role in seed dispersal, helping forests regrow naturally. This is particularly important in areas recovering from storms or human activity. In addition, insectivorous bats provide natural pest control, consuming thousands of insects each night and reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Bats in Antigua thrive in a variety of environments despite the island’s relatively dry and flat landscape. Caves are the most important roosting sites, including areas such as Bats Cave near English Harbour. Some species also adapt to trees, rock crevices, and even buildings.
Despite their importance, bats face several challenges. Habitat loss due to development, negative public perception, and the impacts of hurricanes all threaten their survival. Hurricanes, in particular, can reduce food sources and force bats closer to human settlements.
Bats are protected by law in Antigua and Barbuda, making it illegal to harm or kill them. The Forestry Unit continues to promote awareness and conservation efforts, encouraging residents to coexist peacefully with bats.
International Bat Day is more than a celebration—it is a call to action. By understanding and appreciating bats, we can help protect these vital creatures.
Bats are not pests. They are pollinators, farmers, and protectors of the night. Protecting bats means protecting Antigua and Barbuda’s environment, agriculture, and future.
Antigua and Barbuda represented at regional Veterinary Services workshop in Saint Lucia by Shenequa Williams
Antigua and Barbuda was represented at the PVS Pathway Orientation Training Workshop for the Caribbean, held 8–10 April 2026 in Saint Lucia and hosted under the flagship Performance of Veterinary Services (PVS) Pathway of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
The country’s delegation included Dr. Tubal Edwards/Chief Veterinary Officer and Dr. Diandra Payne/Veterinary Officer.
Also participating in the workshop was Dr. Nneka Hull-James, an Antiguan-born veterinary professional who delivered a presentation on behalf of the Caribbean Animal Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA).
The three-day workshop brought together Veterinary Services professionals from across the Caribbean to strengthen national capacity and prepare countries for upcoming PVS evaluations. Antigua and Barbuda is scheduled to undergo a PVS Evaluation as part of the Pandemic Fund project aimed at improving preparedness and response to emerging health threats in the Eastern Caribbean.
The PVS Pathway is a country-driven programme that supports continuous improvement of Veterinary Services in line with international standards. Through training, data use and strategic planning, the initiative helps countries enhance disease prevention and control, laboratory systems, workforce development, One Health collaboration and public-private partnerships.
Dr. Payne noted that the workshop highlighted the critical importance of strengthening Veterinary Services across the region. She explained that improving veterinary services creates a powerful chain reaction that benefits animals, farmers and the wider society. Healthier livestock and pets lead to reduced disease losses, improved productivity and more reliable income for farmers, while strong veterinary systems help protect public health and reduce healthcare costs.
She added that stronger veterinary services also support food security and safety by ensuring healthier animals, safer food production and improved inspection systems that reduce contamination risks. This helps build consumer confidence, supports local consumption and contributes to a stronger national economy.
Dr. Payne emphasised that investing in veterinary services is a national development priority, noting that stronger animal health supports safer food, improved public health, economic growth and national stability. She concluded that transformation of veterinary services is an ongoing journey requiring continued commitment and investment.
Countries and organisations represented included Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Turks and Caicos Islands, along with regional and international partners such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Caribbean Animal Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).
Participation in the workshop is expected to support Antigua and Barbuda’s preparation for its upcoming PVS Evaluation and further strengthen national and regional veterinary capacity.
International Plant Appreciation Day: Celebrating Plants and Protecting Our Future by Shenequa Williams
International Plant Appreciation Day is observed each year on April 13th to recognize the vital role plants play in sustaining life on Earth. The observance encourages people worldwide to learn about plants, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable practices. Unlike some global observances, there is no official theme for 2026, allowing countries and communities to highlight issues most relevant to their environment.
Plants are essential to human survival. They produce oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, provide food and medicine, and support wildlife habitats. Scientists estimate that plants absorb a significant portion of global carbon emissions, helping to slow climate change. Despite their importance, nearly 40% of plant species worldwide face the threat of extinction, making conservation more urgent than ever.
This day is especially meaningful for Antigua and Barbuda, where plants support food security, livelihoods, and environmental protection. Agriculture remains an important sector, with crops such as mangoes, coconuts, vegetables, and the famous Antigua Black Pineapple contributing to local diets and economic activity. As climate change continues to affect rainfall and crop production, we are increasingly adopting sustainable farming practices such as hydroponics and climate-smart agriculture to strengthen resilience.
International Plant Appreciation Day offers opportunities for schools, communities, and individuals to get involved. Activities can include planting trees, starting home gardens, supporting local farmers, and learning about native Caribbean plants.
Ultimately, this observance reminds us that plants quietly sustain life every day. By appreciating and protecting them, we invest in healthier communities, stronger food systems, and a greener future for generations to come.
