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.
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.
FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean 39th Session
Permanent Secretary Walter Christopher (l) with other delegates at the 39th FAO Conference
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN held its 39th session of the Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean in Brasilia Brazil 2nd March to 6th March 2026.
The five days of meeting were held, two days for Senior Officers and three Days for Ministers, which addressed many issues around transforming AgriFood systems in LAC.e.g.
- Food price inflation for food security and nutrition.
- One Health in LAC: challenges and pathways forward to address animal, plant and human health issues.
- The challenges of Soil and Water Management.
The sessions also reviewed the main results achieved by FAO in Latin American & the Caribbean, during the 2024-2025 period, in advancing the transformation towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems.
Efforts were directed at the priorities for the biennium 2026-2027 and beyond under the FAO Reviewed Strategic Framework 2022-2031.
Further, CARICOM countries met with FAO Assistant Director (Regional), IICA Director General and The Vice Minister of Agriculture of Brazil and his senior programme officers.
In summary, the meetings resulted in opportunities to explore cooperation that will strengthen and influence FAO’s work programme in Antigua & Barbuda for the next two years, mainly in the areas of Soil and Water Management, Protected Agriculture and Organizational review of the Department of Agriculture to deliver Climate Smart Technologies & Approaches support.
Professions Safeguarding Land, Food Systems, and Marine Resources by Brent Simon
As we continue to explore professions in the agricultural sector, here are three more to consider:
Soil & Water Specialist
A Soil & Water Specialist works behind the scenes where most people never look—below the surface. This role focuses on understanding how land absorbs, stores, and loses water, and how soil health directly affects crop productivity and environmental stability. These professionals design solutions to reduce erosion, improve drainage, conserve moisture, and prevent contamination of water sources. In regions vulnerable to droughts, floods, and land misuse, their work determines whether agriculture adapts or collapses. It’s a science-driven role with real-world consequences: get it right, and farming systems endure; get it wrong, and damage compounds fast.
Horticulturist
A Horticulturist concentrate on intensively managed crops—food plants, ornamentals, and high-value specialty produce. Their expertise spans plant breeding, pest control, soil nutrition, and post-harvest handling, all aimed at maximizing quality rather than just quantity. In practical terms, they help farmers grow better produce, reduce losses, and meet market standards. For small economies, horticulture creates space for entrepreneurship, backyard farming, export niches, and food diversification. This profession proves that agriculture doesn’t have to be large-scale to be economically meaningful—it just has to be well-managed.
Marine Biologist
A Marine Biologist examines life below the waterline to understand how human activity affects ocean systems. Their work includes monitoring fish populations, studying coral reefs, tracking pollution, and advising on sustainable fishing limits. For island nations, this role is not academic—it is strategic. Healthy marine ecosystems protect coastlines, support livelihoods, and sustain tourism. When marine biology is ignored, overfishing and habitat loss follow quickly. When applied properly, it becomes a powerful tool for balancing economic use with long-term survival.
Conclusion
These professions operate in different spaces, but their impact converges on one reality: sustainable resource management is non-negotiable. Soil, crops, and oceans are interconnected systems, and professionals trained to protect them are essential to national resilience. Treat them as optional, and the costs show up later—financially, environmentally, and socially.
Understanding Indemnity and Parametric Insurance in Agriculture by: Tyreke G Thomas-Horsford
At the recently concluded session at the Fisheries Conference Room at the Point Wharf — the Final Community Phase 2 Session on Climate Disaster Risk Insurance hosted in Antigua and Barbuda — discussions highlighted the importance of indemnity and parametric insurance in safeguarding agriculture and food security across the island. These two approaches to agricultural insurance are central to building resilience against climate-related disasters, which are becoming increasingly frequent in the Caribbean.
What is Indemnity Insurance in Agriculture?
Definition: Indemnity insurance is a traditional form of coverage where farmers are compensated based on the actual losses they incur. After a disaster, inspectors assess the damage to crops or livestock, and payouts are made according to the verified loss.
How it works:
oA farmer reports damage after a hurricane, drought, or pest outbreak.
An assessment team evaluates the extent of the loss.
Compensation is calculated to “indemnify” or restore the farmer to their pre-loss financial position.
Advantages:
Tailored to actual losses, ensuring fairness.
Provides comprehensive coverage for a wide range of risks.
Challenges:
Time-consuming assessments can delay payouts.
Administrative costs are high.
Disputes may arise over the accuracy of damage evaluations.
What is Parametric Insurance in Agriculture?
Definition: Parametric insurance is a modern, data-driven approach where payouts are triggered by measurable parameters — such as severity of tropical storms or hurricane levels, wind speed, or drought indices — rather than actual on-the-ground damage assessments.
How it works:
A farmer purchases coverage linked to a specific climate index.
If the index crosses the agreed threshold, the payout is automatically triggered.
No need for lengthy inspections or damage verification.
Advantages:
Fast payouts, often within days.
Lower administrative costs.
Transparent and objective, reducing disputes.
Whether or not you sustain any damages once you have the policy you are still entitled to get a payout.
Challenges:
Farmers may receive payouts even if their personal losses are small, or conversely, may not receive payouts if the index does not trigger despite suffering damage.8
Requires strong data infrastructure and accurate climate monitoring.
Permission must be seeked from the global climatic authorities
Why These Models Matter for Antigua and Barbuda
Agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda is highly vulnerable to hurricanes, droughts, and shifting rainfall patterns. Farmers often face devastating losses that threaten livelihoods and food security.
Indemnity insurance ensures that farmers are compensated for actual damages, providing a safety net for those most affected.
Parametric insurance offers speed and efficiency in paying out, which is critical in disaster recovery when farmers need immediate support to replant and rebuild.
Together, these models can complement each other: indemnity insurance provides depth and more coverage, while parametric insurance provides speed and predictability. For small island states like Antigua and Barbuda, combining both approaches strengthens resilience against climate shocks and supports sustainable agricultural development.
Conclusion
The discussions at the Fisheries Conference Room underscored that climate disaster risk insurance is not just a financial tool — it is a lifeline for farmers and communities. By embracing both indemnity and parametric insurance, Antigua and Barbuda can better protect its agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers remain resilient in the face of climate change and that food security is preserved for generations to come.
Ministry of Agriculture Honours Plant Protection Veterans for Over 40 Years of Service by Brent Simon
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy formally honoured two stalwarts of the Plant Protection Division—Mrs. Ireatha Thomas-Hunte and Mr. Alexander “Wilbur” Simmons—during a retirement recognition ceremony celebrating more than four decades of dedicated public service.
The event marked the end of an era for the Ministry, as both retirees devoted the majority of their working lives to safeguarding Antigua and Barbuda’s agriculture sector, biodiversity and food security.
During her congratulatory remarks, Dr Jamil Gore-Francis – Chief Plant Protection Officer expressed her gratitude to the retirees for unwavering commitment to national service, noting that between them, they represent over 40 years of institutional knowledge, field experience, and frontline protection of the country’s agricultural systems.
A Legacy of Vigilance and Mentorship
Mrs. Thomas-Hunte began her career in Plant Protection in 1984, at a time when modern quarantine systems were still in their infancy. Rising through the ranks from ground-level inspection work, she became a frontline defender against invasive pests and plant diseases, responding to reports from homeowners and farmers alike.
As Antigua and Barbuda’s plant protection framework evolved, Mrs. Thomas-Hunte moved to the front lines at ports of entry, working closely with customs and immigration to ensure that no unauthorized plant material or pests threatened national food security.
Her role extended beyond inspections; she became a mentor to generations of officers, helping shape the standards and discipline that define the Division today.
Her service strengthened national resilience and quietly protected the country through periods of global upheaval, economic instability, climate challenges, and the COVID-19 Pandemic.
An Unsung Hero of Plant Protection
Mr. Alexander Simmon—affectionately known across the Ministry as “Wilbur”—began his Plant Protection journey in 1985, long before terms like “biosecurity” and “food systems resilience” entered everyday conversation.
Over the course of 40 years, Wilbur served as an all-rounder that involved being a pest control operator, field inspector, driver, and ground operations officer, navigating every corner of the island in defense of local agriculture. His work during closed cotton seasons, pest control operations, and station-based inspections played a critical role in protecting key crops and preserving biodiversity.
Described as an unsung hero, Wilbur consistently avoided the spotlight yet remained an essential part of the country’s first line of agricultural defense. His retirement in August leaves the Division stronger than he found it—a hallmark of true public service.
The well-wishers encouraged both retirees to embrace retirement not as an end, but as the beginning of a new chapter—one marked by rest, reflection, and well-earned freedom. While no longer inspecting fields or ports of entry, they were reminded that their legacy lives on in the systems they helped build and the officers they trained.
On behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, heartfelt thanks were extended to Mrs. Thomas-Hunte and Mr. Alexander Simmons by both the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Walter Christopher, and the Director of Agriculture, Mr. Gregory Bailey, for their decades of service to Antigua and Barbuda.
As one speaker aptly noted, retirement may mean
AGRICULTURE ON THE MOVE NEWS CLIP – WATER SAVING IRRIGATION TRAINING WEEK 2
The Do’s and Don’ts of Preventing African Swine Fever in Antigua & Barbuda
Essential Guidance for Farmers and the Support of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy by Tyreke G Thomas-Horsford
African Swine Fever (ASF) poses a severe threat to pig populations around the world, including in Antigua & Barbuda. This highly contagious viral disease affects both domestic and wild pigs, often resulting in heavy losses for farmers. ASF does not affect humans, but its impact on animal health and the agriculture economy is significant. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy remains dedicated to supporting local farmers in preventing and managing the risks associated with ASF.
What Is African Swine Fever?
African Swine Fever is a deadly viral disease for pigs, characterised by high fever, loss of appetite, skin reddening, and high mortality rates. The virus is resilient, surviving in pork products and on contaminated equipment or clothing for long periods. There is no vaccine or cure, making prevention and strict biosecurity measures essential.
Do’s: Best Practices for Preventing ASF
Practice Strong Biosecurity:
Limit access to pig farms—only essential personnel should enter pig pens.
Use disinfectant footbaths and require all visitors to wear clean clothing and boots.
Regularly clean and disinfect equipment, vehicles, and facilities.
Source Animals Responsibly:
Only purchase pigs from reputable sources with no ASF history.
Quarantine new pigs for at least 30 days before mixing them with the main herd.
Do not feed pigs with swill, food scraps, or meat products, as these can carry the ASF virus.
Use only commercial or properly processed feed.
Monitor Herd Health:
Check pigs daily for symptoms of illness, including fever, lethargy, or skin changes.
Report any unusual sickness or deaths immediately to veterinary authorities.
Dispose of Carcasses Properly:
Promptly report and safely dispose of any dead pigs according to guidance from the Ministry of Agriculture.
Don’ts: Actions to Avoid
Do not bring pork products onto the farm from unknown or unregulated sources.
Do not allow visitors who have been in contact with pigs abroad onto your farm without proper quarantine procedures.
Do not share equipment, tools, or vehicles with other farms unless they have been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Do not ignore signs of illness or delay notifying authorities if ASF is suspected.
Do not move pigs off your property without ensuring they are healthy and authorised by the relevant authorities.
How Farmers Should Care for Their Animals Now
Given the risk of ASF, farmers in Antigua & Barbuda must maintain heightened vigilance and biosecurity. Key steps include:
Keep pig enclosures secure and minimise external contact.
Work with your local veterinary officer to develop an emergency response plan for suspected ASF cases.
Educate farm workers and family members about ASF symptoms and reporting procedures.
Review your farm’s biosecurity plan regularly and update it based on current recommendations from the Ministry.
Support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy is fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s livestock and supporting farmers in the face of ASF. Farmers can expect:
Access to information and training on ASF prevention and biosecurity.
Prompt veterinary support for suspected cases of ASF.
Guidance on animal movement, quarantine, and carcass disposal regulations.
Assistance with emergency response planning and risk assessment.
If you have concerns or need help, contact your local extension officer or the Ministry directly. Together, we can protect Antigua & Barbuda’s pig industry and ensure a safe food supply.
Preventing African Swine Fever requires the commitment of every farmer, worker, and stakeholder in Antigua & Barbuda. By following these do’s and don’ts and collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy, we can reduce the risk of ASF and safeguard the future of our local agriculture sector.
Day Four: Indepth Design and Fertigation Precision – Advancing Water-Saving Techniques by Brent Simon
St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda — The Ministry of Agriculture’s three-week Water-Saving Irrigation Technology Training Program entered its fourth day today, continuing its mission to strengthen local capacity in sustainable water management and agricultural innovation.
Under the guidance of Mr. Huang Yanwu, Associate Research Fellow at Longping Agricultural High-Tech Co., Ltd., participants spent the day exploring two advanced topics central to modern irrigation practices.
The morning session featured Lecture 5: “Deep Design and Precise Calculation of Water-Saving Irrigation Systems.” The session examined the technical principles behind efficient irrigation system planning — including hydraulic design, pressure balance, and soil-water-plant interaction — to ensure maximum productivity with minimal water waste.
In the afternoon Lecture 6: “Commissioning of Fertigation Systems” focused on the integration of nutrient delivery within irrigation setups. Participants gained insight into calibration, automation, and the fine-tuning required for accurate and sustainable fertigation management.
Reflecting on the program’s progress, Ms. Anika Aska, Agricultural Officer and member of the management team, remarked that “the course is going well, and the participants have been very engaged in lectures and discussions. Many have shared experiences and exchanged knowledge. The course material has also been very informative and has given the 70-plus participants a lot of new perspectives on irrigation setups and water-saving technologies.”
Now in its second week, the training continues to blend theoretical instruction with real-world application, empowering agricultural professionals to design and maintain systems that make every drop count.
Praedial Larceny: Beyond Animals and Crops by Tyreke G. Thomas-Horsford
Praedial larceny — the theft of agricultural produce — continues to be one of the most pressing challenges facing the agricultural sector across Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean. For generations, the term has been associated mainly with the stealing of livestock, fruits, and vegetables. However, this issue has evolved far beyond traditional farm theft. Today, farmers are losing not only their crops and animals but also valuable equipment, tools, and materials that are vital to agricultural production.
A Modern and Expanding Threat
Under the oversight of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & the Blue Economy, efforts continue to strengthen food security, boost local production, and support farmers across the nation. Yet, praedial larceny remains a major obstacle to these goals.
While the theft of animals and produce is still widespread, the modern thief now targets irrigation systems, water pumps, power tillers, fuel, fertilizers, chemical sprayers, fencing, and even solar-powered lighting systems. Some go as far as removing harvested produce awaiting collection, or dismantling structures like storage sheds and gates to resell the materials.
These acts do more than rob farmers of property — they rob communities of progress. Every stolen hose, engine, or bag of fertilizer represents a setback in our collective mission to build a strong and sustainable agricultural economy.
The Human and Economic Impact
Praedial larceny is not a petty offense; it is a serious economic and social crime. For many small-scale farmers, a single incident can wipe out months — even years — of hard work and investment. Beyond financial loss, it creates emotional distress, reduces morale, and discourages others from entering or continuing in agriculture.
This, in turn, threatens national food security. When farmers lose confidence and production declines, the country becomes more dependent on imports, undermining local resilience and economic growth.
The Challenge of Enforcement
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & the Blue Economy, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, continues to address this growing issue. However, enforcement remains complex. Farms are often located in remote areas with limited security, making them easy targets. Identifying stolen goods is another challenge, especially when crops and livestock are unmarked or when tools are resold quickly.
This is why the Ministry continues to emphasize farm registration, traceability systems, and community policing initiatives — encouraging farmers to mark their livestock and equipment, maintain updated farm records, and report suspicious activities promptly.
Community Involvement and Technology
The fight against praedial larceny cannot rest on government action alone. It requires a united approach among farmers, communities, and law enforcement. Farmers’ groups and cooperatives have shown success in sharing information and organizing community watch systems.
Additionally, the Ministry encourages the use of modern technology such as CCTV cameras, motion sensors, GPS trackers, and digital recordkeeping. These tools can significantly reduce the risk of theft and make it easier to recover stolen items.
A Call for National Responsibility
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & the Blue Economy continues to call upon every citizen to recognize praedial larceny as more than just “taking a few things from the farm.” It is theft — and it impacts the entire nation. Vendors, consumers, and transporters must all act responsibly by verifying the source of agricultural goods before purchase.
By supporting farmers, respecting their labor, and holding perpetrators accountable, we protect not only livelihoods but also the national goal of food self-sufficiency.
Conclusion
Praedial larceny has evolved — and so must our response. It is no longer limited to the stealing of animals or fruits, but extends to equipment, materials, and infrastructure essential to production. The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & the Blue Economy reaffirms its commitment to strengthening legislation, supporting farmers, and fostering partnerships that ensure agriculture remains a secure, profitable, and respected profession.
Every stolen hoe, pipe, or animal affects the nation’s progress. Together, through vigilance, cooperation, and enforcement, we can protect the hands that feed us and secure the future of Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural sector.
