GARD CENTER HOSTED CLIMATE DISASTER RISK INSURANCE WORKSHOP

GARD Centre Celebrates Achievement at Closing Ceremony By Tyreke Thomas-Horsford

Celebrating Success, Confronting Reality: GARD Center’s Soap-Making Programme Closing Ceremony by Brent Simon

On Monday, 8^th December 2025, the GARD Center proudly hosted the closing ceremony of its Soap-Making Training Programme – an initiative designed to transform skills into opportunities and give participants from His Majesty’s Prisons a foothold toward a better future. The programme which ran from November 4^th,2025 was completed at the ceremony which challenged the participants to invest in themselves, commit to change, and step toward reintegration with purpose.

Mrs. Cheryl Samuel/Soap-Making Tutor, gave her expert guidance as the participants explored the science and craft of soap production, experimenting with formulas, natural additives, scents and different techniques. Throughout the training, in addition to making the products they built discipline, teamwork, confidence and resilience.  it is hopeful that all of these traits would enhance the inmates return to society. The ceremony celebrated persons who chose to grow and learn and have also chosen to believe they can create something different with their lives.

Officials present at the event were:

– Bishop Juan Miguel Simson – Chairman, GARD Center Board of Directors

– Rev’d Jacqueline H Liddell – Secretary, GARD Center Board of Directors

– Dame J.M. Eusalyn Lewis, DCN, OBE – Vice Chairman

– Mrs. June Jackson – Executive Director

– Mrs. Angela Ephraim – Principal

– Ms. Janice Micheal – Permanent Secretary Ministry of Public Safety and Labour

– Col. Trevor Pennyfeather – Superintendent, His Majesty’s Prisons

– Mrs. Cheryl Samuel – Soap-Making Tutor

– Ms. Micheala Harris – Rehabilitation Assistant Coordinator, His Majesty’s Prisons

– Mr. Kirthley Maginley – Member, GARD Center Board of Directors

Their presence underscored the wider commitment to rehabilitation and the belief that structured skills training can help break cycles and rebuild lives.

Congratulation to the Graduates:

Mr. Kenworth Charles

Ms. Jay Marie Chin

Mr. Akeem Henry

Ms. Brittany Jno-Baptiste

Mr. Lindell Matthew

Mr. Corey Mills

Mr. George Thomas

Ms. Kenisha Whyte

While programmes like these can’t erase the past they can help prevent future harm by giving individuals the structures, skills, and a real alternative to the paths that led them to prison in the first place.

The GARD Center continues to play an active role in supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration efforts of His Majesty’s Prisons

GARD Center donates to Pares Secondary School by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

On Tuesday 27th May, the GARD Center donated the first of three hydroponic units. The recipient was the Pares Secondary School, one of the participants of a previously held training.

This gesture was made possible through the partnership and funding provided by the Global Environmental Facility Small grant project (GEF SGP).

The Principal, the Agriculture science students and teachers were very grateful for the hydroponics unit which would enhance the food production at the learning institution.

One of the commendable responses that would ensure longevity and continuity of the crops produced by the unit is the involvement of the students in every aspect of this project, which is from the installation to production.

Moreso, the inclusion of students from third to fifth forms will ensure that the process will be continuous.

The handover of the unit was conducted by Mrs. June Jackson/Executive Director of the GARD Center. She expressed her pleasure of making this important contribution and thanked GEF for making for its continued support in the development of our youth as they build resilience to Climate Change impacts.

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.”

CDRFI COMMUNITY SESSION

Innovative Approaches to Catalyze the Delivery of Meso-Level Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance: Roundtable Discussion by Shenequa Williams & Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

Amid escalating climate risks that threaten the economic and social fabric of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Caribbean, key stakeholders gathered in Antigua and Barbuda for a two-day roundtable discussion. Today marked the first day of this intensive consultation, organized by the Gilbert Agricultural Rural Development Center (GARD Center) and the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC), which focused on pioneering finance and insurance solutions designed to mitigate climate and disaster risks at the meso-level. The consultation brought together representatives from vulnerable communities, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and financial institutions. While the initiative aims to build climate resilience across Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, and Jamaica.

Caribbean nations are increasingly vulnerable to climate-related events that trigger sudden spikes in expenditure, erode revenue streams, and hamper essential services. Recognizing these challenges, the CPDC is spearheading efforts to build a comprehensive knowledge base on Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI). The overarching aim is to improve access to these financial mechanisms for civil society organizations and meso-level institutions, thereby enhancing the resilience of the region’s most vulnerable populations.

Day 1 Objectives Included:

1. Analyzing the Climate Risk Financing Environment
2. Presenting Initial Findings
3. Enhancing Product Understanding
4. Examining Existing CDRFI Products
5. Soliciting Participant Feedback

The proceedings began with opening remarks from Ms. June Jackson, Executive Director of the GARD Center. Ms. Jackson established the day’s protocols, emphasizing the importance of representation from government officials and project consultants to civil society and community partners. Her address set a collaborative tone, underscoring the need for meso-level solutions that integrate seamlessly with national and local insurance frameworks to support vulnerable communities.

Mrs. Gale Inhoff-Gordon, Director of the Ministry of Finance Project Management Unit, provided critical insights into the challenges faced by small island states. She highlighted that the region is particularly vulnerable to intensified hurricanes, shifting rainfall patterns, and rising sea level, all of which can lead to immediate revenue losses and unplanned emergency expenditures. Her remarks stressed that robust financial mechanisms, bridging both government policy-based insurance and private-sector initiatives, are essential to cushion the economic impacts of climate disasters.

Mr. Norense Iyayen, Project Consultant and CDRFI Lead Researcher, set the stage for a broader discussion by explaining the inherent risks associated with climate and disasters. He emphasized the indispensable role of finance and insurance in not only managing but also mitigating these risks. Mr. Iyayen presented best practices and global examples that demonstrated how tailored financial products can offer critical protection against the adverse impacts of climate-induced events. His presentation provided a strong framework for understanding the subsequent discussions on innovative financial mechanisms.

A highlight of the session was an in-depth discussion on the spectrum of insurance products and the potential for meso-level risk aggregation.

Day 2

The session continued but with much more interaction from the participants.  The attendees were divided into the three working groups.  They were asked to process the matters established from the previous day in constructive brainstorming then present their findings along with suggestions to address the same.

GARD Centre Launches GEF Funded Hydroponics Training Project to Boost Food Security by Brent Simon & Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

The Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development Center (GARDC) success fully launched its GEF Hydroponics Training Project, yesterday, 11 March,2025. This groundbreaking initiative is aimed at enhancing food security and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices in Antigua and Barbuda.

Funded through the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program (GEF SPG), of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project – titled “Scaling up Local Food Security through a Network of Climate Smart Agricultural Systems” – focused on training and equipping individuals to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.

The project will provide hydroponics training to diverse groups across the island, including:

• Three rural secondary schools –

Glanville’s Secondary School, Pares Secondary School, and Trinity Academy – At least 50 students, teachers and farm attendants will be trained.

• Inmates at His Majesty’s Prison – with 10 participants benefitting from the program.
• Community members – particularly 20 women from local groups and churches, who will receive scholarships for training.

As part of the initiative, hydroponic systems will be constructed and installed at each participating school and His Majesty’s Prison, with assistance from teachers, supervisors, volunteers, and trainees. The local women who successfully complete the program will each reactive a start-up kit, which includes:

• A mini-hydroponics container
• An air pump
• Rockwool (a growing medium)
• Net cups

This practical support ensures that participants can immediately apply their knowledge and contribute to local food production.

Hydroponics – a method of growing plants without soil – offers sustainable solution to food production, especially in regions facing climate- related challenges such as drought and poor soil conditions. By introducing this technology at the school level and within vulnerable communities, the GARD Center aims to create a new generation of skilled agricultural practitioners who can drive food self-sufficiency in Antigua and Barbuda.

During the event several key figures delivered remarks, emphasizing the significance of the initiative:

• Mrs. June Jackson – Executive Director of GARD Center, provided an overview of the US$30 000 project’s purpose, the intentional impact on local food security and capacity building.
• Miss Letitia Lawrence/Principal of Pares Secondary School highlighted the importance of hands-on learning and how the training will prepare students for sustainable livelihoods and her expectation of those that were trained to be trainers of their younger counterparts.
• Mr. Rody Christopher/Principal of Glanville’s Secondary School, stated that, “This school is on the rise, committed to success through dedication and perseverance.” Additionally, He remarked that the school has been desirous of obtaining this equipment and training for a while now and was promised one which never materialized.  In closing he expressed gratitude to GARDC and GEF for facilitating the dream in becoming a reality.
• Miss Michaela Harris, Rehabilitation Assistant Coordinator at His Majesty’s Prison, was enthusiastic about the opportunities that such training would provide to persons returning to society from the confined environment. She said, “This training gives inmates, a second chance, an opportunity to break the cycle and become better men and women, and is a could be a major steppingstone to redefining themselves, while giving them employability and teaching them a pathway to contributing to society”
• Ms. Carol-Faye Bynoe-George, Head of Communications Unit represented the Ministry of Agriculture, in her remarks she reiterated the ministry’s commitment to supporting agricultural development, the importance of youth inclusion and emphasized that collaborative efforts are required from everyone in regard to Food Sovereignty and Security.
• Mrs. S. Natalya Lawrence/National Coordinator of GEF Small Grants Programme, acknowledged the project’s significance in Food Sovereignty/security, empowering youth and women, fostering climate resilience. She reiterated that GEF SGP, remains committed to assisting government, communal associations and other stakeholders in the fight to protect the nation and region from climate change impacts, fostering global climate resilience and achieving Food Security goals.

The event concluded with the vote of thanks by Mrs. Angela Ephraim/Principal of GARDC Training Facility after the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), symbolizing a commitment of furthering sustainable agriculture and community empowerment. The signed MOAs were individually signed by both principals with Mrs. Roberta Williams/Former GARDC Director co-signing as witness.

As the seeds of this initiative take root, stakeholders remain optimistic that the GARD Center’s efforts will lead to lasting positive change, ensuring a more food secure climate resilient future for Antigua and Barbuda.

PRESS RELEASE – GARDC LAUNCHES NEW INTIATIVE