From dawn till dusk, Barbadian farmers labor tirelessly, nurturing crops, tending livestock, and ensuring food reaches every table across the island. Their relentless efforts are the backbone of the nation’s food security, a cornerstone of life that World Food Day 2025 seeks to honor. Observed on October 16 under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” the day serves as both a tribute to farmers and a reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard food systems. Acting Chief Agricultural Officer Michael James emphasized that agriculture is the foundation of life, a task that requires unity and collaboration. “We cannot do it alone. Farmers need support from the ministry, and the ministry needs the public’s participation,” he stated. James highlighted the challenges farmers face, including praedial larceny, which disrupts the supply chain. To combat these issues, the Ministry of Agriculture has implemented rebate programs, introduced drought-resistant crop varieties, and strengthened livestock resilience initiatives. Modernization efforts are also underway, with upgraded laboratory facilities and a new tissue culture facility to ensure clean planting materials and higher yields. The Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (BADMC) is expanding its Accelerated Cultivation Programme, focusing on key crops like onions, sweet potatoes, and yams to boost local production and market opportunities. World Food Day celebrations in Barbados extended beyond a single day, encompassing a week of educational activities. Students visited agricultural facilities, while the public enjoyed an open day at the Ministry of Agriculture, featuring machinery demonstrations, innovative farming techniques, and local produce displays. The event also included community outreach, with food hampers distributed to organizations supporting vulnerable populations. James urged Barbadians to embrace locally grown produce, echoing the words of agricultural pioneer Carmeta Fraser: “Eat what you grow, grow what you eat.” He emphasized that the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future” is a call to action for healthier citizens, empowered farmers, and a nation that values its food. The Ministry of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring nutritious, affordable, and safe food for all, aligning with the government’s vision for a self-sufficient Barbados.