BASSETERRE – Agriculture Minister The Hon. Samal Duggins delivered a compelling address for World Food Day 2025, emphasizing collaboration as the key to building a sustainable food future for St. Kitts and Nevis.
Speaking under this year’s theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” Minister Duggins outlined the Federation’s progress in strengthening food security despite facing climate change, rising costs, and global economic pressures.
“This is more than a slogan. This is a promise,” Duggins declared, highlighting the government’s commitment to working alongside farmers, fishers, communities, and international partners.
The Minister pointed to the success of the Food Import Reduction Program, which has increased local production of bananas, plantains, pineapples, and vegetables. These efforts not only reduce dependency on imports but also celebrate the nation’s agricultural identity and pride.
Duggins emphasized investments in agro-processing and value-added products, enabling farmers and fishers to expand beyond traditional farm sales. This initiative creates jobs, grows businesses, and retains economic value within local communities.
Sustainability remains central to the strategy, with measures protecting soil, water, and marine resources ensuring long-term viability.
The Minister acknowledged key partnerships with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and CARICOM as essential to achieving food security goals.
“When we work hand in hand, we don’t just grow food, we grow resilience, we grow opportunity, and we grow hope for generations to come,” Duggins concluded, offering blessings to the nation’s farmers and fishers.