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 investment potential
of local protected agriculture farms. The mission involved 15 farmers and over 20 stakeholders, focusing on transforming these farms into viable investment opportunities. The initiative included agribusiness training, farm surveys, and field interviews to strengthen the financial viability of greenhouse, hydroponic, and shade house farming systems. This effort is part of a broader strategy to scale up climate-smart and digital agricultural technologies in the region.
Why It's Important?
This mission is significant as it aims to transform Antigua and Barbuda's agricultural sector into a more sustainable and investment-ready industry. By focusing on climate-smart agriculture, the initiative supports national efforts to enhance food security and resilience against climate change. The development of investment-ready business cases is expected to attract capital and foster innovation in the agricultural sector, potentially leading to increased productivity and economic growth. This initiative also aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce reliance on imports.
What's Next?
The next phase of the project will involve analyzing the 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 into the agricultural sector. The focus will be on strengthening import substitution and improving livelihoods through sustainable agricultural practices. Continued collaboration with stakeholders and the implementation of new technologies will be crucial for the success of this initiative.
