St. Kitts and Nevis is steadily advancing towards CARICOM’s ambitious “25 by 2025” initiative, a regional objective to cut food imports by 25% by 2025. Despite challenges like rising import costs and climatic impacts, the Federation has demonstrated notable progress, achieving self-sufficiency in egg production and enhancing its overall agricultural resilience.
A significant milestone was recently achieved with the launch of the Bayford’s Layer Chicken Breeder Farm and Hatchery, facilitated by the Ministry of Agriculture with support from the Republic of China (Taiwan). This hatchery, alongside the arrival of 640 parent stock chicks, empowers local farmers with resources to maintain poultry production without the high costs associated with importing the birds. This advancement in the poultry sector not only strengthens food security but also opens up the possibility of exporting surplus eggs to neighbouring Caribbean islands.
Minister of Agriculture Samal Duggins hailed this progress, noting that the hatchery symbolises a shift towards sustainable agricultural practices.
“Our aim is to equip our farmers with the resources they need to thrive locally while reducing dependency on imported products. This initiative supports both food security and economic development by allowing St. Kitts and Nevis to explore the export market for eggs,” said Minister Duggins.
Further supporting its commitment to food security, the government has also implemented a major plant distribution initiative. Over 400,000 banana and plantain plants were distributed to local farmers and home gardeners, an investment expected to boost local produce supplies, reduce import needs, and support families with sustainable sources of fresh food. The initiative underscores the Federation’s holistic approach to agriculture, targeting both commercial production and community self-sufficiency.
These efforts align closely with CARICOM’s “25 by 2025” goals, as member states focus on strengthening agricultural production, increasing intra-regional trade, and reducing food costs.
While St. Kitts and Nevis has achieved success in its egg and crop production, the journey to meet the 25 by 2025 target remains challenging for some other Caribbean nations, which continue to grapple with extreme weather events and economic pressures. For example, Hurricane Beryl had devastating impact Grenada’s agricultural production, highlighting the regional vulnerability to climate-related disruptions.
Despite these challenges, the progress of St. Kitts and Nevis reflects a strong commitment to building a resilient, sustainable agricultural sector that can support local food needs and contribute to regional food security.
As the Federation continues to innovate and expand its agricultural capabilities, it sets a promising example for other CARICOM states working towards a self-sustaining food future.
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