What's Happening?
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda, has completed a mission to enhance the financial viability of local
protected agriculture farms. The mission involved agribusiness training, farm surveys, and field interviews with 15 farmers and over 20 stakeholders. Led by Dr. Omardath Maharaj, the initiative focused on greenhouse, hydroponic, and shade house farming systems, aiming to scale up climate-smart and digital agricultural technologies. The mission is part of a broader effort to transform the island's agricultural sector into a prosperous, investment-ready opportunity.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is crucial for Antigua and Barbuda as it seeks to strengthen its agricultural sector's resilience and sustainability. By focusing on protected agriculture and climate-smart technologies, the mission supports national efforts to improve food security and reduce reliance on imports. The development of investment-ready business cases will help attract financing and foster innovation in the sector. This aligns with global trends towards sustainable agriculture and highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change and food security challenges.
What's Next?
The next phase of the project involves analyzing collected data to produce tailored business cases by February 2026. These cases will support farmers in securing financing and assist the Ministry in attracting investment. The focus will be on creating a more sustainable and profitable agricultural sector, enhancing import substitution, and improving livelihoods. Continued collaboration with stakeholders, including supermarkets and hotels, will be essential to validate market demand and operational realities.
