MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE BIDS HAPPY RETIREMENT AND FAREWELL TO MISS ANNELL NICHOLAS

On Saturday, February 8th management and staff of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy (MoA) gathered together to wish a long, faithful and hard worker, Miss Annell Nicholas, farewell and happy retirement.  Miss Nicholas served over forty-four unbroken years in the government service, during that time she served in several positions and ministries the last of which was as one of the Principal Assistant Secretary at the ministry of agriculture.  During her tenure at the MoA she also served several times as the Permanent Secretary.

Happy retirement wishes were extended from her family, many of the coworkers and permanent secretaries she encountered along this significant milestone.  Although, unfortunately for the civil service but fortunately for Miss Nicholas, she has served her country well and leaving behind closed doors to that chapter and on to the new one.  According to her those who were fortunate to be over sixty (60) are on their last bend of life.  They should be thankful, looking forward to embrace, and enjoy their retirement in ways that they want or chose. She left with us a legacy of fairness, honesty and exemplary team spirit which many consider are impeccable qualities a role model should have.  Miss Nicholas was a diligent and a hard worker who will be missed by many.

Enhancing Food Safety and Trade in the Caribbean: The Role of the Caribbean Taskforce on Food Safety (CTFS) by Shenequa Williams & Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

The Caribbean’s food trade faces ongoing challenges due to inconsistent safety standards across the region. While some countries have well-developed food safety systems, others struggle to meet international requirements, creating barriers to trade and posing risks to public health. To address these issues, the Caribbean Taskforce on Food Safety (CTFS) was established as a technical advisory body dedicated to improving coordination and harmonizing food safety measures across CARICOM.

Recently, a two-days meeting was held in Bridgetown, Barbados during 28th and 29th January.  Representatives from Caricom member states to include countries such as Trinidad & Tobago, Belize, Dominica, Suriname, St. Lucia, Barbados and Haiti were in attendance at this very important meeting.  Dr. Diandra Payne/Veterinary Officer within the Veterinary and Livestock Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, fisheries and the Blue Economy represented Antigua and Barbuda at this forum. The Caribbean Task Force on Food Safety engaged in this very important meeting to develop a 3-year work plan to address the food safety issues.  Additionally, this meeting served as a follow-up from the conference held in Suriname from September 10th to 12th, 2024. At that event, members actively supported the prioritization of the food safety issues which led to some recommendations.

The idea for the task force emerged from a 2019 regional workshop in Suriname, where senior food regulators emphasized the need for a structured approach to food safety management. They recommended a permanent body to facilitate collaboration, share best practices, and streamline regulatory frameworks. This led to the formation of the CTFS, which was later endorsed by CARICOM’s Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED).

Operating under the guidance of the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA), the CTFS plays a key role in shaping food safety policies. Its mandate includes advising on priority areas for intervention, recommending legislative updates, and identifying emerging food safety risks. The task force also supports investment in food safety infrastructure, training programs, and laboratory testing capabilities.

Beyond policymaking, the CTFS acts as a central hub for coordinating responses to food safety incidents, such as contamination outbreaks or regulatory alerts. By working closely with national food safety authorities and international partners, it ensures timely action and effective risk management.

CAHFSA provides administrative and logistical support to the CTFS, facilitating its operations and ensuring alignment with regional goals. Specialized working groups within the task force tackle specific projects, such as developing food safety guidelines and conducting risk assessments.

With the CTFS in place, the Caribbean is moving toward a more cohesive and resilient food safety system, reducing trade barriers while protecting consumers. By fostering regional cooperation and aligning food safety regulations, the task force helps position CARICOM as a stronger player in the global food trade.

Minister of Agriculture Press Conference: Focus on Food Security, Youth Involvement, and Agricultural Innovation by Brent Simon and Shenequa Williams

Perry Bay, Antigua: 11/2/25 – At today’s press conference in the Multi-Purpose Centre VIP lounge, the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy (MoA) laid out the vision for the future of the country’s agricultural landscape. Moderated by Ms. Carol-Faye Bynoe-George/MoA Head-Communication Unit, media reps and other attendees listened as, the Honorable Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, the Blue Economy, Permanent Secretary Walter Christopher, and Director Gregory Bailey, addressed local media, underscoring the key areas of food security, youth development, the development of a sustainable agricultural sector and the economy.

Minister Smith began by emphasizing that Food Security remains a top priority for the government. Despite challenges, the agricultural sector has shown resilience, achieving a 7% growth in 2024, contributing 116 million ECD, or 2 % of the GDP. He stressed that food security is not just the responsibility of the government but of every citizen, calling for a collaborative effort to ensure the availability, affordability, and sustainability of local food sources.

“We cannot do this alone. Every citizen must play their part in ensuring our country’s food security.” Minister Smith asserted.

In line with these goals, the Minister encouraged more investment from the private sector, focusing on commodities that are vital to the local economy.  Additionally, Mr. Christopher reiterated the minister’s assertions and further explained that the ministry’s goals could be achieved by the increased production of ten key crops include pineapple, sweet potato, sweet pepper, yam, chicken, pork, goat, eggs, cassava, and honey. This effort he noted, is a critical part of the broader strategy to double the agriculture sector’s contribution to the national GDP.

Addressing the water situation, Minister Smith with the support of Mr. Bailey highlighted the ongoing work to enhance natural waterways and develop strategic mega dams to supplement the present supply of water. Additionally, the ministry will be utilizing materials from its quarry build better access to the farms roads for farmers while improving accessibility to markets.

“Land management and water resources are the cornerstone of our agricultural strategy. With efficient land and water use, we can ensure sustainable growth,” the director remarked.

The main topic of the press briefing was the need for youth involvement in agriculture. The average age of farmers in Antigua and Barbuda is over 50, a statistic that calls for urgent action. Therefore, the government is particularly proud of the relaunch of the ABAFY (Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture Forum for Youths), which encourages younger generations to view agriculture as a lucrative and essential career.

The Minister also announced the government’s plan for the Bethesda School of Agriculture which will be housed in the former Bethesda Primary School. This state-of-the-art agricultural institution will provide the education and skills necessary for young people to thrive in the evolving agricultural sector. According to the director, the curriculum is being developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education at present.

“We need to show young people the potential of agriculture and the impact it can have on their lives. This school will be a game changer for the sector,” Minister Smith Added.

Permanent Secretary Walter Christopher echoed these sentiments, thanking the Cabinet for providing $700,000 in support of agricultural initiatives. He emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency and the Ministry’s on-going efforts to aggressively seek additional resources to fuel agricultural development. “We are committed to making Antigua and Barbuda a leader in sustainable agriculture.” Christopher stated.

The Director of Agriculture, Mr. Gregory Bailey, took the opportunity to address the potential for the agricultural sector to grow. He also highlighted the need for sustainable practices, infrastructure and reiterated that efforts will be made to integrate livestock, fisheries and crop production more effectively to ensure a resilient and diversified agricultural sector. Comments were also made pertaining to the ongoing Antigua Black pineapple project and the broccoli training given by the Chinese government through the Long Ping High Tech Corporation.

The panel emphasized that national food security is an ongoing challenge that requires a collaborative effort from all sectors of society. Minister Smith called on the public, private entities, and youth to come together to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future for Antigua and Barbuda. Additionally, in his closing remarks the minister thanked all the stakeholders and partners such as the Inter-America Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA), the Chinese and the Venezuelan Governments.

With bold steps in place including a school of agriculture, and a focus on strategic commodities, the Ministry of Agriculture is positioning Antigua and Barbuda to not only meet its food security needs but also lead the way in agricultural innovation.

Celebrating World Pulses Day 2025: The Power of Pulses for Nutrition, Agriculture, and Sustainability by Brent Simon

Each year on February 10, the world celebrates World Pulses Day, a global initiative that highlights the importance of pulses in nutrition, agriculture, and food security. This international observance was proposed by Burkina Faso to raise awareness about the benefits of pulses in addressing food challenges, improving soil health and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Pulses are edible seeds of leguminous plants that grow in pods. They include lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas, which are cultivated and consumed worldwide. Unlike other crops, pulses are defined as dry grains and do not include fresh beans or soybeans. These staple foods have been an integral part of human diets for centuries, providing essential nutrients and sustainable agricultural benefits.

Pulses are among the most nutrient dense foods, making them a vital component of healthy diets. They offer:

· High-quality plant protein: Essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health, making them a valuable alternative to animal protein.

· Rich fiber content: Support digestive health, regulates blood sugar, and contributes to heart health.

· Packed with essential vitamins and minerals: Including iron, folate, potassium, and magnesium, which are crucial for immune function and overall well-being.

· Gluten-free and low glycemic index: ideal for people with dietary restrictions or managing diabetes.

Beyond their nutritional value, pulses play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture by improving soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation. Unlike other crops that require synthetic fertilizers, pulses naturally pull nitrogen from the air and enrich the soil, reducing the need for chemical inputs. This process:

· Enhances soil fertility.

· Reduces dependency on synthetic fertilizers, lowering production costs.

· Improves crop rotation systems, breaking disease cycles and increasing yield potential.

Pulses are highly resilient to harsh climatic conditions, making them essential for climate adaptation strategies. Many varieties thrive in semi-arid and drought-prone regions. Requiring significantly less water than other protein-rich crops. Their ability to withstand extreme conditions makes them a valuable crop for climate-smart agriculture, ensuring food production remains stable even in changing weather patterns.

As the global population continues to grow, ensuring access to affordable and nutritious food is critical. Pulses contribute to food security in several ways:

· High yield potential in small farming systems.

· Long shelf life, reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring availability year-round.

· Affordable protein source, making nutritious diets accessible to low-income populations.

The global pulse market presents significant opportunities for farmers, traders, and agri-businesses. Investing in pulse production and value-added processing can:

· Increase farmer incomes, particularly in developing nations.

· Support export markets as demand for plant-based proteins rises.

· Promote rural development, creating jobs in farming, processing, and distribution.

Countries with strong pulse production have the potential to diversify their agricultural economy and reduce reliance on imported food.

As we celebrate World Pulses Day 2025, individuals, policymakers, and farmers are encouraged to incorporate more pulses into daily diets for better health. Support local farmers by purchasing locally grown pulses. On an administrative level, leaders can promote sustainable pulse production and market expansion and invest in research and innovation to enhance pulse productivity and climate resilience.

Pulses are more than just food- they are a solution for nutrition, sustainability, and economic empowerment. This World Pulses Day lets recognize their role in shaping a healthier planet and a more resilient future!

Ottos Comprehensive School Students Visit Fisheries: Explores Seafood Fish Health & Nutrition by Brent Simon

St. John’s, Antigua – 7^th February 2025

Students from the Ottos Comprehensive School second form Home Economics class visited the Fisheries Division today for an educational session on seafood, fish health, and nutrition. The visit provided a unique learning experience, reinforcing key lessons about safe seafood handling and the nutritional benefits of fish in a balanced diet.

Upon arrival, at the Point Wharf Fisheries Complex, they were greeted by Mr. Ian Hosford / Chief Fisheries Officer and Mr. Hilroy Simon / Senior Fisheries Officer who ushered them to the conference room where they were introduced to the critical roles seafood plays in food security, health and nutrition. The session covered topics such as identifying fresh fish, proper storage methods, and the benefits of seafood consumption, including high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, essential vitamins and minerals.

They learned about the importance of hygiene in seafood handling to prevent contamination and maintain food safety. Additionally, they were taught the key indicators of high-quality seafood:

• Clear eyes
• Red Gills
• Firm Flesh

The interactive session also allowed students to ask questions about local fisheries, sustainable fishing practices, and the role of seafood in a healthy diet. By the end of the visit, students left with a greater appreciation for the seafood industry and its importance in daily nutrition. The Fisheries continues to support educational outreach, ensuring that young learners understand the significance of seafood health and nutrition.

For more information on fisheries education programs, contact the Fisheries Division by telephone at 462-6106 or visit them in their building at the Point Wharf Fisheries Complex.

NOTICE – Fisheries Division urges Fishers to Renew Licenses and Maintain Compliance

The Fisheries Division is reminding all fishers of the annual licensing requirement for fishing vessels. As part of the renewal process, vessels and all required equipment must be made available for inspection to ensure compliance with safety and fisheries regulations. Persons in possession of Fisher ID cards are also encouraged to renew them if they are expired.

Persons desirous of entering the fisheries industry or want to register a vessel for operations contact the Fisheries Division via telephone at 462 6106, or visit them on location at Point Fisheries Complex, for guidance on the registration process.

The Fisheries Division urges fishers to prioritize their fisher ID card renewals and vessel registrations to avoid penalties or restrictions on fishing activities.  Additionally, inactive fishers should contact the Fisheries Division, as well as Social Security and Medical Benefits, regarding their required contributions and status updates.

Mr. Ian Horsford/Chief Fisheries Officer

Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy