On Tuesday, 4th August, members of the Farmers Association met with the Hon. Kyle Hodge, Minister responsible for Economic Development, Commerce, Information Technology and Natural Resources, in a healthy discussion on the vision and way forward for Agriculture in Anguilla.
Mr. Hodge shared the view that agriculture is a vital sector of the Anguilla economy and, despite having a multiplicity of challenges, should be structured to develop into a thriving industry. All in attendance shared a mirrored expectation to see agriculture in Anguilla grow to the place where it can efficiently supply the domestic market and expand to commercial scale manufacturing, then further to export.
The cross-section of farmers in attendance included a number of young persons who were particularly engaged with the Minister’s pledge to utilise science, technology and varied innovative ideas to bring about an era of modern farming that is needed in Anguilla.
As summarised by the Minister, the outlook on agriculture should not be one where its value is seen only in times of crisis. Local produce should be given first consideration and utilised at more establishments and households alike – once it meets the appropriate health and safety standards.
The two hour meeting highlighted the following which the Minister seeks to address in collaboration with the Farmers Association and other supporting bodies.
High water rates
Increase extension services by the Agriculture Department
Identification cards and benefits system for all farmers
Ploughing and tractor services scheduled by zones
Increase in seed supply
More technical advice and best practices
Workshops and standardisation of pest control practices
Retrofitting and revitalisation of the People’s Market
Control of stray dogs, goats and invasive species (iguanas and monkeys)
Forecasting and Marketing Support so that produce is sold within the local stores and neighbouring islands
Immediately, Minister Kyle Hodge seeks to install a steering committee that will oversee efforts to explore and construct a well for farming activities in The Valley area first, and then other zones across the island. The Ministry will collaborate with Green Cuisine, a local hydroponic farm, to assist in building a desalination plant. This plant is projected to carry no construction cost to the Government of Anguilla.
To further address the access to portable water, exploratory talks have begun with a view to establishing special rates and practices similar to those of 2010-2015 where reduced rates were made available for farmers with higher than average levels of water consumption.
Support will also be extended to egg farmers through lowering the duty on the importation of crates, and increasing duty on importation of eggs when the egg farmers increase their production to handle the increased demand. It is expected that these alleviations will give way to food security in the first instance – and exports thereafter of five to six key crops and eggs, broilers, local goat meat and select fish products thus bolstering the farming and fishing industry.
- Press Release
