St Vincent gifts 7,000 Pineapple, Banana plants to St Kitts and Nevis

St Vincent and the Grenadines gifted over 7,000 different varieties of plants to the St Kitts and Nevis agriculture ministry. The plants included tissue-cultured plants, mainly banana and pineapple saplings.

Following the receival of plants, Samal Duggins- the Minister of Agriculture St Kitts and Nevis hosted a seed-planting ceremony on Friday. It was hosted for the officials of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture who facilitated the handing over of  the 7,000 plants.

The donation comes as the region strives to improve food security and form a comprehensive plan to increase production of fruits, vegetables and other edible items.

[caption id="attachment_66034" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Tissue Cultured Plants[/caption] Minister Duggins said that this gesture of regional partnership showcases the significance of shared goals and mutual support in the pursuit of agricultural development and food security in the Caribbean region.

He said that as the world is fighting with challenges like economic fluctuations, climate change and food security, the government of St Kitts and Nevis is taking bold steps to address these concerns.

The vision of the Ministry is to become food secure by 2025, and Samal Duggins said that this vision is a necessary ambition.

"It reflects a deep understanding of the critical role agriculture plays not only in the economy but also in the social and environmental well-being of the nation," he outlined.

The introduction of new crops, such as the pineapple and banana varieties from St Vincent, is a strategic move. These crops are known for their adaptability, nutritional value, and economic potential.

[caption id="attachment_66035" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] ICCA officials with Minister Samal Duggins (PC - SKNIS)[/caption]

Notably, the Ministry aims to enhance food availability, boost local production and reduce reliance on imports by diversifying the agricultural landscape.

Minister Duggins said that embracing environmentally friendly techniques and leveraging modern agricultural technologies are key to achieving the goals set for 2025.

These practices not only ensure the efficient use of resources but also contribute to the preservation of the island's unique ecosystems. The significance of this event extends beyond the agricultural sector.

As St Kitts and Nevis is moving into 2024 with this green initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture has reaffirmed its dedication to 'Working For You.' Minister Samal Duggins said that this slogan is not just a tagline, but a promise to the people of the country to strive for agricultural excellence.

"The journey to 2025 is not without its challenges, but with continued dedication, innovation, and regional cooperation, St Kitts and Nevis is well on its way to achieving its vision," he added.