The Antiguan government has unveiled a comprehensive agricultural support program focused on solving critical water infrastructure challenges that hinder farming productivity. Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced during his weekly radio address that state resources will be deployed to assist farmers in constructing water retention systems including dams and ponds.
Browne emphasized that dependence on conventional pipe-borne water supplies represents an unsustainable model for agricultural operations. ‘Serious farming requires integrated water storage solutions,’ the Prime Minister stated during the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM. ‘We will provide technical and equipment support to develop tributary systems that channel water into purpose-built reservoirs.’
The administration has allocated heavy excavation equipment for this initiative, with additional machinery shipments expected from China within the next two months. This equipment pool will enable agricultural authorities to assist farmers in developing customized water storage infrastructure across the island.
Browne highlighted the successful Sanderson’s farm dam project as a model for the program, noting its capacity to retain over three million gallons of water. This demonstration project has shown significant positive impact on local agricultural output.
This water security initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to enhance food sovereignty and reduce dependence on imported food products. The government cited climate change pressures and rising temperatures as key factors driving the need for more resilient agricultural water management.
Complementary measures include improvements to farm access roads, installation of solar-powered lighting to extend working hours, and continuation of duty-free importation benefits for agricultural machinery and inputs. The Prime Minister additionally called for private capital investment in the agricultural sector, encouraging partnerships with existing farming operations to build a more robust food production system.