St Kitts and Nevis on move to achieve CARICOM's 25 by 25 agenda: Samal Duggins

St Kitts and Nevis: The Ministry of Agriculture has been tirelessly implementing innovative initiatives to turn the vision of 25 by 25 into a tangible reality. This vision is aimed at reducing the food import bill by 25% by 2025 - a target set by the CARICOM Heads of Government.

The Ministry underwent a rejuvenation with the initiation of this tranformative agenda last year. To make this vision a reality, the Ministry has undertaken various initiatives such as the online platform 869 togo, making fresh produce more accessible. Minister Samal Duggins highlighted that the Greenhouse Village initiative was also launched, which promises a revolution in agriculture, while projects like the Drought Resilience Irrigation Project and Mexico-CARICOM-FAO Initiative ensure that the farmers thrive.

The Minister also commissioned new tractors for land cultivation in St Kitts, easing the work for the farmers, which ultimately led to more food production on the island.

Additionally, the Ministry orchestrated various training and development sessions, fostering skill enhancement and knowledge growth.

Simultaneously, the Ministry also enhanced accessibility to local produce by organizing vibrant night markets, creating avenues for the community to connect with fresh, locally sourced goods.

Samal Duggins also highlighted that last year, his team collaborated with Southern University to amplify their endeavours further and formalise their commitment through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

"This not only ensures the adoption of best practices but also opens doors to valuable scholarship opportunities for our people," outlined the Minister.

While mentioning all these initiatives, the Agriculture Minister extended a special thanks to the Permanent Secretary, Miguel Flemming and the entire team for a successful year.

While talking about this year and the things he strives to do, Minister Duggins said that he is anticipating a year where the Ministry not only surpass expectations but also breaks new ground, especially with the inclusion of the Cannabis industry, intensifying the commitment to diversify the economy.

He looks forward to making St Kitts and Nevis food secure and ensuring a sustainable island state through Agriculture.