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.
Feed Pigs Safely:
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.

Going Nuts for Coconuts AKA the Tree of Life: Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates World Coconut Day by Shenequa Williams

Every September 2nd, the world takes a moment to go a little… well… coco-nuts. World Coconut Day is a global celebration of the humble yet mighty coconut, an iconic tropical fruit that has been dubbed the “Tree of Life” for its endless uses, from food and drink to beauty products and construction materials.
First marked in 2009 to commemorate the founding of the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (now the International Coconut Community), World Coconut Day shines a spotlight on the coconut industry’s importance to livelihoods, health, and culture. Each year comes with a theme to inspire awareness and innovation. This year’s focus? “Sustaining the Coconut Sector for the Present and Future Generations,” a reminder that if we want to keep enjoying our coconut water under a shady palm, we need to invest in sustainable practices now.
Here in Antigua and Barbuda, coconuts are more than just a pretty addition to a postcard-perfect beach scene. They’re an essential part of our culinary heritage, our culture, and, if we’re being honest, our snack life.
Take ducana, for example: a sweet potato dumpling infused with grated coconut, spices, and raisins (optional), then wrapped and boiled to perfection. It’s comfort food with a tropical kick, often paired with saltfish for a true island classic.
Coconut water, the Caribbean’s original sports drink, is also a staple at roadside stalls and village shops, offering a naturally refreshing burst of electrolytes. And let’s not forget coconut oil, which in Antiguan homes is as likely to end up in a frying pan as it is in a hair care routine.
World Coconut Day isn’t just a tropical excuse to enjoy a cold drink under the sun, it’s a chance to honor an age-old resource, promote sustainability, and appreciate the deep cultural roots the coconut has in island life. In Antigua and Barbuda, where coconut trees sway as proudly as our flag, it’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest things, like a fresh jelly coconut, can be the sweetest.
So, this September 2nd, let’s raise a glass (preferably filled with coconut water) to the Tree of Life, and make sure our coconut traditions keep growing for generations to come.

 

Week 2 Day 2: MoA Interns Explore Sustainable Farming at Mr. Alvin Christian’s Farm and Greencastle Station by Shenequa Williams

As part of their ongoing agricultural internship, Ministry of Agriculture interns embarked on a hands-on learning experience at two local farming locations, gaining valuable insights into sustainable practices and crop cultivation.
Their first stop was one of the picturesque farms of Mr. Alvin Christian, known for its natural charm and productivity. The highlight of the farm was a large pond running through its center, contributing to the lush environment. Mango and coconut trees lined the property, offering a serene yet practical demonstration of local fruit production and land management.
Next, they journeyed to the Greencastle Agricultural Station, where they explored a more diverse crop environment. There, they were introduced to dragon fruit trees and educated on the different varieties of peppers being cultivated at the facility. With guidance from the staff, the interns carefully uprooted small mango trees from the field followed by the transplanting process. This involved loosening the soil around the roots, gently removing the saplings, and placing them into grow bags filled with a balanced soil mix.
They learned the importance of minimizing root disturbance, ensuring proper moisture levels, and labeling each plant for tracking. The activity helped reinforce skills in plant propagation and gave the interns a clearer understanding of how nurseries operate and how fruit trees are prepared for future planting in the field.
To end the enriching day, the interns took part in a small fruit harvest, picking ripe mangoes and star fruits straight from the trees, a sweet reward after a productive and educational visit.

Congratulations to Twinstod Enterprise for winning the St. Croix Agrifest 2025 Off Island Exhibit competition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Antigua and Barbuda did it again. Congratulations to Twinstod Enterprise for winning the St. Croix Agrifest 2025 Off Island Exhibit competition.

Antigua and Barbuda last won this in 2020 just at the start of Covid. Antigua and Barbuda had an eight-member Delegation attending the 53rd Agrifest, which is held under the theme “”From Soil to soul, Nurturing VI Agriculture. ” 15-17 February 2025. Second place in the competition went to Nevis.

                              

 

 

 

UPDATE ON THE ANTIGUA BLACK AND THE SWEET POTATO PROJECTS by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

Today February 28th, Mr. Craig Thomas/IICA National Representative held a meeting held with Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture, some of the ministry’s department heads, technicians and other partners. Discussions were held on the current status and all the details surrounding both the Antigua Black and the Sweet Potato projects being coordinated by IICA and supported by its partners. Important information discussed were on the Ministry of Agriculture’s involvement, contributions and the responsibilities of its various departments.  Additionally, activities to be implemented in 2025 were deliberated on and plans for ways forward were formalized.

 

ABAFY: EXTRACT FROM POINTE-EXPRESS