Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 9th, 2025 (PMO)— Significant investments in agriculture are propelling St. Kitts and Nevis closer to achieving food security goals despite the severe challenges posed by last year’s drought. During the January 8 Round Table, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to modernizing the agricultural sector, emphasizing resilience, innovation, and sustainability as key pillars of the country’s agricultural transformation.
“Drought has been a major obstacle, but we have responded with targeted programs, including the distribution of drip irrigation systems, seeds, and funding for drought recovery. The launch of the Tabasco program and other large-scale farming initiatives reflects our commitment to diversifying agriculture and securing sustainable food production for generations to come.”
The Tabasco program, introduced to boost agricultural output, has already shown significant potential, the Prime Minister expressed. Encompassing 100 acres of land designated for the production of peppers and other crops, the initiative is not only expected to increase local food production but also position St. Kitts and Nevis as a supplier to international markets. The program is part of a broader strategy to transition the Federation toward diversified, large-scale farming that reduces reliance on imports and mitigates the risks posed by environmental challenges such as climate change.
The Drew-led government has also implemented a drought recovery program to address immediate needs in the agricultural community. As part of this initiative, local farmers have been provided with essential resources such as drip irrigation systems to conserve water, protective coverings for crops, and high-quality seeds to ensure better yields. These measures have been supported by millions of dollars in funding, underscoring the administration’s commitment to strengthening the sector. “We are equipping our farmers with the tools and resources needed to thrive in an era of climate uncertainty,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Beyond these targeted programs, the government has also invested in critical infrastructure to ensure long-term agricultural productivity. Modern greenhouses are being constructed to enable year-round cultivation of high-value crops, while a newly launched hatchery has bolstered the Federation’s capacity to produce eggs domestically. These initiatives align with the government’s broader food security strategy, which emphasizes self-sufficiency and sustainability. “The hatchery is now producing sufficient eggs to meet local demand, reducing our dependency on imports and building resilience within the sector,” Dr. Drew noted.
Water security has been identified as a key component of the administration’s agricultural strategy. Recognizing the need for reliable water sources, the government recently conducted a comprehensive geological survey to identify new water reserves. Plans are already underway to drill additional wells and expand access to irrigation for farmers. These efforts are complemented by the construction of a state-of-the-art desalination plant, expected to come online later this year, which will provide 2 million gallons of water daily to the Basseterre area and surrounding communities.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the hard work and determination of the Ministry of Agriculture as well as the work of local farmers, crediting them with driving innovation and powering progress despite significant obstacles. He also praised Minister of Agriculture Hon. Samal Duggins for his leadership in spearheading these transformative initiatives. “The success of these programs is a testament to the dedication of our farmers and the innovative leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture. Together, we are building a resilient agricultural sector that can weather any storm,” he said.
Looking ahead, the government plans to further expand its agricultural initiatives to strengthen food security and create new economic opportunities. Partnerships with international organizations, such as the United Arab Emirates and the Food and Agriculture Organization, are being pursued to enhance technical expertise and secure additional funding for sustainable projects. These partnerships are expected to play a critical role in ensuring the long-term viability of the sector.
“We are building a future where St. Kitts and Nevis can proudly feed itself. This journey will not be easy, but with the right investments and the continued support of our people, we will succeed. Agriculture is not just an economic pillar—it is the lifeblood of our communities and a cornerstone of our sustainable island state agenda.”
