In a remarkable display of agricultural excellence, Antiguan cultivator Twin I Payne has secured consecutive championship titles at Agrifest 2026 in St. Croix, marking an extraordinary achievement in Caribbean farming circles. The regional agricultural showcase, renowned for gathering the finest producers across the archipelago, witnessed Payne’s unprecedented back-to-back victory—a feat rarely accomplished in the event’s history.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy publicly celebrated Payne’s accomplishment, emphasizing how this repeated triumph positions Antigua and Barbuda prominently within the regional agricultural landscape. Ministry officials highlighted that Payne’s consistent performance not only demonstrates exceptional skill but also reflects the nation’s growing agricultural capabilities and commitment to food security initiatives.
Agrifest, established as the Caribbean’s premier agricultural exposition, transforms St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands annually into a vibrant hub of agricultural innovation. The event attracts farmers, agro-processors, and exhibitors from across the Caribbean basin who present livestock, diverse crops, and value-added products in a competitive showcase of regional agricultural prowess.
Government representatives noted that Payne’s achievement serves as both an inspiration to established farmers and a compelling model for youth considering agricultural careers. The consecutive wins underscore the potential for consistency and excellence within the sector, particularly important as Antigua and Barbuda continues to strengthen its domestic food production capabilities and regional competitiveness.
The ministry’s statement further emphasized that such accomplishments validate ongoing investments in agricultural development while demonstrating the high standards achievable through dedicated practice and innovation. Agrifest continues to be recognized as a critical platform for knowledge exchange, commercial opportunities, and regional collaboration in agricultural advancement.