World Coconut Day: Going Coconuts for One of Nature’s Greatest Gifts by Shenequa Williams
If you’ve ever cracked open a coconut with one swing, congratulations, you’re officially a tough nut to crack! If not, don’t worry. Coconuts have been keeping people humble for centuries.
Every year on 2nd September, the world celebrates World Coconut Day, recognizing one of the most versatile fruits on the planet. (Yes, despite its name, the coconut is technically a fruit!)
Here in Antigua and Barbuda, coconuts are more than just something to sip through a straw on a hot day. They’re part of our culture, our cuisine, and our island lifestyle. Whether you’re cooling down with fresh coconut water after a day in the sun, grating coconut for traditional sweets, adding it to delicious local dishes, or enjoying a refreshing coconut ice cream, this tropical treasure has earned its place in our hearts.
Across Antigua and Barbuda, coconut trees line our beaches, farms, villages, and backyards, standing tall as a familiar part of our beautiful landscape. They’re not just scenic, they’re valuable. Coconut palms help reduce coastal erosion, provide shade, support biodiversity, and offer opportunities for local entrepreneurs to create products such as coconut oil, soaps, pastries, crafts, and beverages.
As interest grows in value-added agricultural products, coconuts continue to offer exciting opportunities for farmers and agro-processors looking to diversify their income while making the most of locally grown resources.
Did You Know that a coconut can float across oceans, allowing it to spread naturally to new coastlines?
Did You Know that despite growing in salty coastal environments, coconut palms don’t actually drink seawater. Their roots absorb fresh groundwater beneath the soil?
This World Coconut Day, take a moment to appreciate this incredible fruit that gives us so much. Whether you’re enjoying a refreshing coconut, supporting a local vendor, trying a new coconut recipe, or simply relaxing beneath the shade of a coconut palm, there’s plenty to celebrate.
After all, life is always a little sweeter when you go coconuts!
Happy World Coconut Day from the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy!
Agricultural Science Teachers Attended Annual Workshop by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
Today September 2nd, the Agricultural Science Department within the Ministry of Education held its annual Agricultural Educators’ seminar and workshop. This training was held at the Department of Environment Conference room and was hosted by Mrs. Nicolette Francis/Agricultural Science Education Officer.
There were over forty teachers from Early childhood (pre-school), primary and secondary in attendance, most of which seemed to be eager for what the 2026/27 academic year will be offering. The focus of the workshop was not only the theme of the department “Growing Greatness” but additionally the vision and the core value “Passionate, Committed and Responsible” that are the expectations of the participants in the subject and at their schools.
Several activities were done throughout the session and these included the triangle exercise, it was requested that everyone drew a triangle and wrote at the top their expectations for 2050, at the left corner they had to state what in the past that would prevented them from achieving these goals, then at the right corner they were to stated what was presently preventing them in obtaining their desired outcomes.
Additionally, a Food System Transformation exercise was demonstrated by the teachers who were placed into three groups. The teachers had to portray scenarios pertaining to food items that would be converted into products. These food items were avocado, bananas, cassava, coconut, corn, mango, peppers, raisins, soursop and walnut.
Group 1 presented vegan dishes that could be made using cassava, raisins, soursop and walnuts. Foods such as fried soursop served with cassava and cassava porridge.
Group 2 scenario depicted a shipwreck/survival situation with only bananas, cassava and coconuts that were available and were converted into cakes or consumed in their original state.
Group 3 did a slavery plantation presentation where only bananas were available and they explained several types of dishes that would have been done to include chips, pancakes, pies, porridge and wine.
Other activities included a game which appeared simple but was much more difficult than it appeared since it required concentration and focus. This was followed by each of the levels sharing some constraints of which included lack of support, resources, land, labour, praedial larceny and the negative mind set or stigma regarding the agricultural sector.
In the latter part of day, Mrs. Francis, introduced Dr. Andrew Hunte from University of the West Indies (UWI) who did a presentation on the uses of AI by educators and students, engaging AI to make the classroom more interactive, the use of the programmes such as Chat GPT to enhance projects and error analysis. Dr. Hunte also encouraged the educators to pursue higher education and to become certified tutors. In closing he informed the participants that in the near future they can pursue Agricultural Science at the UWI Five Island Campus.
Special presentations were made to two Agricultural Science teachers that were now working with ABCAS at the Agricultural Science School. Both Mrs. Andrea Edwards-Browne and Mr. Keyon Samuel taught at Pares Secondary and All Saints Secondary respectively for a number of years. Other teachers awarded for their dedication, hard work and early reporting were Samanthia Zachariah/ Jennings secondary,Mrs. Lee-Williams/Sir Novelle Richards Academy, Ms Keizer/Ottos Comprehensive School, Ms Denise Hodge/Antigua Girls High, Miss Sheckle/Clare Hall Secondary School, Mr. Philip/Cedar Grove Primary School and several more outstanding educators.
To conclude the day’s agenda, Mr. Raine and Mr. Brann representatives of the Department of Environment (DOE) shared information on the Adaptation Fund pertaining to Water/irrigation project and a survey that is presently conducting to determine which irrigation system or method would be more suitable for the need of more water availability, improvement and the potential of support from the DOE through this fund.
Before the departure of the educators, Mrs. Francis did some housekeeping; she reiterated that hearing from them pertaining to any constraints and support is required and outlined the expectations of the MOE from their educators for the upcoming academic year.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR DELEGATES!
Congratulations to the four delegates from Antigua and Barbuda who successfully graduated from the Irrigation Training Programme in China.
Mr. Ma Tang, General Manager of CAAMS, was present at the graduation ceremony and had the opportunity to meet with the Antiguan and Barbudan delegates.
We proudly celebrate their achievement and look forward to the valuable knowledge, skills and experiences they will bring home to support the continued development of agriculture and irrigation in Antigua and Barbuda.
Congratulations once again to our four graduates!
Interns Return to GARD Center to Complete Nursery Painting by Shenequa Williams
The Ministry of Agriculture Summer Interns returned to the Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development Center today, August 27th to assist with the completion of the painting of the plant nursery.
Nine (9) interns returned to lend their time and effort, building on the work they began during their previous visit. Together, they worked to complete the remaining painting, demonstrating teamwork, commitment and a willingness to contribute to the upkeep of the facility. The extension and upgrade to the plant nursery have been due to the generous donations from the General Board of Global Ministries and the Mill Reef Fund.
The activity provided another opportunity for the interns to put their skills into practice while giving back to the GARD Center, which has been an important part of their 2026 Internship Programme experience.
The GARD Center expressed its appreciation to the interns for returning to complete the painting and for the time, effort and enthusiasm they contributed to improving the nursery. The Ministry of Agriculture also extends sincere thanks to the interns for willingly returning to lend a helping hand.
The Ministry of Agriculture and the GARD Center recognize the value of providing young people with opportunities to learn, participate and contribute. The interns’ return visit demonstrated that their involvement in the programme extends beyond gaining knowledge, it is also about making a positive and lasting contribution.
As the Ministry continues to encourage greater youth involvement in Agriculture, activities such as these highlight the meaningful role young people can play in supporting agricultural institutions and their communities.
Ministry of Agriculture Hands Over “The Little Seed That Could” to Ministry of Education by Shenequa Williams
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy has officially handed over 400 copies of The Little Seed That Could to the Ministry of Education for distribution among preschools across Antigua and Barbuda.
The children’s book, the first in a planned series, was written by Mr. Tyreke Thomas-Horsford and edited by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George, Head of Communications at the Ministry of Agriculture. The publication introduces young learners to agriculture in a simple and engaging way, focusing on cultivation, propagation and the importance of patience.
“We felt that it was our responsibility and priority to ensure the adequate information is disseminated on a timely basis and relevant material produced and shared whenever possible.” Ms. Bynoe-George highlighted the importance of making agricultural information accessible to children.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the Ministry of Education was Mrs. Nicolette Francis, Education Officer responsible for Agricultural Science within the Ministry of Education. She expressed gratitude for the continued collaboration between the two ministries and the opportunity to provide children with meaningful educational resources.
“It’s not only about The Little Seed That Could, but it’s also understanding that everything is possible once we try and once we believe that we can,” Francis said.
The ceremony also included the announcement that a second book is already in development, with the Ministry of Agriculture aiming to make its next contribution to the education sector by January 2027.
The initiative represents a shared commitment by both ministries to “Growing Greatness” by planting the seeds of agricultural knowledge in the minds of the nation’s youngest learners.
International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage by Shenequa Williams
Every year on August 21st the International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage is celebrated to highlight the importance of protecting the history and cultural treasures found beneath our oceans, seas and other waterways.
Underwater Cultural Heritage includes shipwrecks, ancient settlements, artefacts and other remains that tell stories about the people, communities and civilizations that came before us. These sites provide valuable insight into our shared history and connection to the sea.
As we celebrate this day, we are reminded of the need to protect and preserve these underwater treasures for future generations. Our waters hold stories worth discovering, understanding and protecting.
Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates World Honey Bee Day By: Tyreke G. Thomas-Horsford
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, in collaboration with the Antigua and Barbuda Beekeepers Cooperative Society, joins the global community in celebrating World Honey Bee Day 2026.
Observed locally on Sunday, 16th August 2026, World Honey Bee Day recognizes the invaluable contributions of honey bees and beekeepers to agriculture, food security, biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods. Honey bees are among the world’s most important pollinators, supporting the production of fruits, vegetables, seeds and many other crops.
For Antigua and Barbuda, protecting honey bees is especially important. A healthy bee population contributes to improved agricultural productivity, healthier ecosystems and greater opportunities for local honey production and entrepreneurship. Beekeeping can also provide an additional source of income for farmers, young entrepreneurs and rural households.
The Ministry and the Beekeepers Cooperative remain committed to strengthening the local apiculture industry through public education, technical assistance, beekeeper training and the promotion of environmentally responsible agricultural practices.
Among the areas being pursued are:
• Encouraging more residents, particularly young people, to become trained beekeepers.
• Promoting the planting of flowering trees, herbs and other bee-friendly plants.
• Educating farmers and householders about the responsible use of pesticides.
• Supporting the production, packaging and marketing of authentic local honey and other hive products.
• Increasing public awareness of the importance of protecting bees and their natural habitats.
• Strengthening collaboration among beekeepers, farmers, backyard gardeners and agricultural agencies.
Why We Should Support Local Beekeepers and Local Honey
Supporting local beekeepers strengthens Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural sector and helps to keep money circulating within the national economy. When consumers purchase locally produced honey and other hive products, they directly support the livelihoods of beekeepers, farmers, small businesses and their families.
Local beekeepers also play a vital role in maintaining healthy bee populations. Their bees pollinate crops, fruit trees, flowering plants and natural vegetation, contributing to increased food production and the preservation of biodiversity across the twin-island state.
Choosing local honey allows consumers to enjoy a product connected to the unique flowers and vegetation of Antigua and Barbuda. It also reduces dependence on imported products, supports national food security and encourages the continued growth of a sustainable local beekeeping industry.
By supporting local beekeepers, members of the public are investing in:
• Local employment and entrepreneurship.
• Increased agricultural production.
• National food and nutrition security.
• The protection of bees and other pollinators.
• The preservation of the country’s natural environment.
• A stronger and more resilient local economy.
Members of the public are encouraged to purchase authentic locally produced honey, plant bee-friendly vegetation, avoid the unnecessary destruction of hives and limit the use of chemicals that can harm bees and other beneficial pollinators.
World Honey Bee Day serves as a reminder that protecting bees is not solely the responsibility of beekeepers. It requires the combined efforts of farmers, gardeners, policymakers, businesses, communities and consumers.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy and the Antigua and Barbuda Beekeepers Cooperative Society look forward to expanding their partnership, strengthening the local beekeeping industry and creating greater appreciation for the small but mighty pollinators that contribute so much to the nation.
Protect the bees. Support local beekeepers. Choose local honey. Together, we can create a sweeter and more sustainable future for Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda Participants to Attend Water-Saving Irrigation Seminar in China By Tyreke G. Thomas-Horsford
Four participants from Antigua and Barbuda traveled on Sunday 16th August to the People’s Republic of China to participate in the Seminar on Water-Saving Irrigation in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions for Developing Countries, an international training programme aimed at strengthening knowledge and technical capacity in modern water-saving agricultural practices.
Representing Antigua and Barbuda at the seminar are Mr. Jerres George, Farmer, Mrs. Clementina Morgan, Ms. Claire Thomas both of the Antigua and Barbuda Agricultural Forum for Youth (ABAFY); and Ms. Alsiah Benjamen, Science Teacher.
The seminar will be held from August 19 to September 1, 2026, primarily in Beijing, China, with participants also expected to visit Baoding City in Hebei Province. The programme is organized by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Mechanization Sciences Group Co., Ltd. (CAAMS) and will bring together approximately 20 participants from developing countries.
Strengthening Knowledge in Water-Saving Agriculture
The two-week programme was designed to expose participants to China’s experience, technology and practical approaches in agricultural water management, particularly in areas where water resources are limited.
Training will combine lectures, discussions, technical visits, inspection and practical activities, allowing participants to gain both theoretical knowledge and first-hand exposure to technologies being utilized in China’s agricultural sector.
Among the major areas to be covered are the development and application of water-saving agricultural irrigation technology; agricultural water resources and soil information monitoring and management; canal water measurement; efficient utilization of reclaimed water; soil analysis and soil-water balance; sprinkler irrigation technology; irrigation principles and irrigation district water management; and water-fertilizer integrated irrigation technology.
Participants will also learn how digital technologies, intelligent sensing, data collection and remote monitoring can be used to improve the management of soil, water quality, soil moisture and water-fertilizer applications.
Special attention will be given to sprinkler irrigation systems, including their design, installation, operation and maintenance, as well as their application in fields and orchards. The seminar will examine how modern irrigation systems can help farmers conserve water, reduce production costs and improve crop yields and quality.
Practical Exposure to China’s Agricultural Technology
Beyond classroom sessions, the participants are expected to visit several agricultural research and technology facilities, including the National Engineering Laboratory of Agricultural Machinery and Equipment of CAAMS and the National Agricultural Machinery Quality Supervision and Inspection Center.
The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Mechanization Sciences Group Co., Ltd. (CAAMS) was established in 1956 and operates in areas including high-end agricultural equipment, agricultural engineering, information technology and technical services.
Since its establishment, CAAMS has organized and completed the development of more than 3,000 agricultural machinery products across nine categories. It has also played an important role in China’s international technical cooperation programmes.
Visits to agricultural irrigation technology and equipment research institutions and enterprises in Baoding City, Hebei Province, are also planned. These activities will allow participants to observe irrigation technologies and agricultural equipment in operation and explore how similar approaches could potentially be adapted to the agricultural realities of their respective countries.
The seminar will be facilitated by specialists from organizations and institutions including CAAMS, China Agricultural University, China Foreign Affairs University, the National Development and Reform Commission, and the China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research.
Under the guidance and support of China’s Ministry of Commerce, CAAMS has implemented approximately 260 China-Aid technical training courses and seminars since the 1980s, providing training to around 7,000 professionals from more than 100 developing countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and the South Pacific.
Sharing Antigua and Barbuda’s Experience
An important component of the programme will be the presentation of country reports. Participants are required to share information about their respective countries, including national characteristics, cultural features, the development of relevant sectors, existing challenges and areas where future cooperation may be beneficial.
For Antigua and Barbuda, participation in the programme provides an opportunity to share the country’s experiences and challenges as a small island developing state, while gaining greater exposure to technologies and practices that could support the efficient management of limited water resources and the continued development of climate-resilient agriculture.
With changing climatic conditions and the need for more efficient agricultural production, water-saving irrigation technologies can play an increasingly important role in supporting farmers, improving productivity and strengthening national food security.
The upcoming seminar therefore represents not only an opportunity for technical learning but also a platform for international cooperation, knowledge exchange and the development of stronger agricultural partnerships between China and participating developing countries, including Antigua and Barbuda.
STEM Infused 2026 Concludes with Celebration of Young Innovators by Shenequa Williams
The Ministry of Education’s fifth annual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Infused Summer Camp 2026 concluded yesterday, August 11, at the John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Center, following five weeks of hands-on learning, exploration, creativity and innovation.
The closing ceremony brought together Ministry of Education officials, parents, teachers, facilitators, partners, sponsors and, most importantly, the young innovators who participated in the programme. The event featured a musical rendition, a video presentation recapping the campers’ experiences, prize-giving and a spirited rendition of the camp song by all participants.
The camp has grown significantly since its inception in 2022. What began as an initiative designed to provide students with meaningful exposure to STEM has evolved into a comprehensive programme attracting more than 200 students annually. This year, approximately 250 attendees were present at the closing ceremony, with participants ranging from 8 to 17 years old.
The programme’s organizers emphasized that STEM Infused is about much more than academic subjects. It provides students with opportunities to explore, experiment, solve problems, think critically, work collaboratively and develop their creativity. Campers were encouraged to recognize that mathematics and science are not simply subjects required for examinations, but powerful tools that can be used to address real challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda.
This year’s programme placed particular emphasis on issues connected to climate change, the environment, water conservation and the health of the country’s marine ecosystems. Older campers explored ocean pollution, ocean health and ocean biodiversity, developing models and innovative solutions to address challenges within these areas.
Through a partnership with the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA), students also participated in AquaQuest, which introduced them to water conservation, smart water management, water reuse and recycling, and innovative approaches to water-related challenges. The Commonwealth of Learning (COL) also came on board this year to sponsor the Robotics programme of the STEM Camp. This will set the stage for the regional Robotics initiative planned for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026.
A representative from APUA congratulated the students and highlighted the importance of the organization’s partnership with the Ministry of Education. The representative encouraged campers to carry the lessons from the programme into their everyday lives by considering how they use water, reduce waste, protect the environment and use technology and innovation to address national challenges.
The representative also reminded students that although Antigua and Barbuda is a small island, many of the challenges it faces are shared throughout the Caribbean and the wider world. Students were encouraged to continue learning, asking questions, experimenting, connecting with others and using their knowledge to contribute to the development of the country.
The camp provided students with extensive practical experiences. Younger participants engaged in robotics, science and applied engineering, rotating through the different disciplines throughout the programme. They also participated in field experiences, including visits to the mangroves and Fort James, where they explored issues such as coastal erosion.
Older campers were challenged to move beyond simply assembling robotics kits and instead build with purpose. Their projects required them to apply their knowledge to real-world issues, including environmental and marine challenges. Students also gained experience using tools and equipment to develop their projects, demonstrating what young people can accomplish when given the opportunity and the appropriate environment.
The organizers emphasized the importance of giving children space to explore their interests and develop their own ideas. The camp’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that young people are filled with ideas and potential and should be given opportunities to think critically, create and produce rather than simply consume information.
A key message throughout the ceremony was that today’s young people will inherit many of the challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean, making it important to begin developing solutions now. The programme reinforced the message from Dr. Didacus Jules: “No one is coming to save us.” The sentiment encouraged young people to recognize the importance of taking action and developing solutions to the challenges they will inherit.
The ceremony also recognized the dedication of the many individuals who worked behind the scenes to make the camp possible. Appreciation was extended to the camp planning team, teachers, facilitators, mentors, safety officers, parents, partners and other Ministry officials whose contributions helped make the programme a success.
Special recognition was also given to organizations that have provided consistent support to the camp since its inception, including the Board of Education, the School Meals Programme, the National School Bus Service and Flow. Their continued contributions have helped ensure that students can participate in the camp at no cost while receiving meals, transportation, connectivity and other essential support.
The camp also celebrated former participants who have returned to assist as facilitators and mentors. Their involvement demonstrated the lasting impact of STEM Infused and how participants can transition from campers to contributors within the programme.
As part of the prize-giving ceremony, two campers—one male and one female—received special recognition following a request from APUA and ECAB. One camper was recognized as the overall performer in the Robotics programme, while the other was recognized for their performance in the AquaQuest programme. Both students received gift baskets containing an iPad and other items.
Appreciation was also extended to APUA and ECAB for providing tokens to the campers in recognition of their participation and achievements.
The closing ceremony served not only as the conclusion of STEM Infused 2026, but as a launchpad for the next generation of innovators. With continued emphasis on practical learning, technology, environmental sustainability and problem-solving, the programme is helping to prepare young Antiguans and Barbudans to become scientists, engineers, coders, designers, entrepreneurs and leaders.
The event concluded on a high note as all campers stood together and sang the STEM Infused camp song, marking the end of five weeks of learning, discovery and collaboration.
The message to the young innovators was clear: the future is theirs to design. They were encouraged to keep asking “why?” and “what if?”, to keep building, questioning, leading and innovating, and to use their knowledge and ideas to help create a stronger and more sustainable Antigua and Barbuda.
2026 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George
Established since 1999 and being observed for the last twenty seven (26) years, this special day was first tabled in 1998 as a recommendation from Ministers responsible for youth at a World Conference. However, the first celebration took place in 2000 as a platform for dialogue, inclusion and policy action.
This United Nations observance main aims and objectives is to highlight Youth Contributions and addressing the challenges Youth experience in education, employment, health and civic life. Additionally, it serves to sensitize politicians, decision makers and others of the younger generation’s creativity and leadership skills could advance sustainable development, drive innovation, and shape communities.
By setting firm foundation and legacy for our youth is the order of the day and we – the older or maturing generation are responsible for paving a pathway for meaningful growth and futuristic sustainable development. “On International Youth Day, we reaffirm our commitment to investing in the whole development of our young people. By connecting education, agriculture, fisheries, food security, technology and entrepreneurship. We can equip our youth to create opportunities, strengthen our communities and build a more resilient Antigua and Barbuda. Our youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow—they are vital partners in shaping our nation today”. Remarks by Minister Randy Baltimore/Minister of State within the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy.
 
