标签： Antigua and Barbuda

In response to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Caribbean region, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to enhance national food security. Recognizing the potential risks posed by rising uncertainties, particularly between Venezuela and the United States, the government has prioritized a significant boost in domestic agricultural production. This initiative aims to safeguard the nation’s access to affordable and reliable food supplies, ensuring resilience against potential disruptions in regional supply chains.

Over the past decade, Antigua and Barbuda has made notable progress in agricultural development, including the expansion of farm infrastructure, construction of dams, implementation of drip-irrigation systems, and provision of incentives for farmers. However, the Cabinet emphasized that current global and regional challenges necessitate a more intensified national effort. As part of this renewed focus, lands leased for farming but left unproductive will be reassigned. Farmers failing to utilize their acreage within 30 days will see their lands reallocated to active farmers and cooperatives ready to cultivate. The Cabinet clarified that this measure is not punitive but essential to maximize the contribution of agricultural assets to food security, employment, and economic sustainability.

To support this initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture has been directed to accelerate state assistance to the farming community. Immediate actions include fencing farms to prevent theft, expanding nursery production, constructing new wells and dams, lighting farms for enhanced security, and improving farm access roads. Additionally, fishermen will receive fuel subsidies, acknowledging their critical role in the domestic food supply chain.

The government also announced the establishment of an Agro-Industrial Park at Diamonds and an Eco Park at Christian Valley to modernize large-scale production and support agro-enterprise development. Furthermore, the national reforestation program has been revised, with a new target of planting 300,000 trees annually, deemed both challenging and achievable. This initiative aims to bolster climate resilience, restore watersheds, and enhance biodiversity.

Over the last decade, Antigua and Barbuda has expanded domestic egg, poultry, and livestock production, implemented duty-free concessions for farm equipment, and invested in drought-resilient technologies. The Cabinet underscored the urgency of transitioning into full “production mode” to reduce dependence on food imports, stating, “Food security is national security.”

The government reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with farmers, fishermen, the private sector, and educational institutions to position Antigua and Barbuda as one of the most food-secure small states in the Western Hemisphere.

The drag racing community is mourning the loss of Jerome Marsh, a passionate enthusiast who tragically lost his life in a devastating two-vehicle collision in Parham on Friday night. According to police reports, Marsh was behind the wheel of a yellow Toyota Vitz when it collided with a Toyota Noah van. Emergency responders utilized specialized equipment, commonly referred to as the ‘jaws of life,’ to extricate Marsh from the wreckage. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after the incident. Marsh’s 14-year-old son, who was a passenger in the vehicle, sustained injuries and remains hospitalized. The driver and a passenger of the Toyota Noah were also injured and are currently receiving medical care at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the crash are ongoing, with further details expected to be released in due course.

In a significant shift, the government has scaled back its ambitious tree-planting campaign from one million trees to 300,000, following recommendations from forestry experts. The decision was announced by Cabinet spokesman Maurice Merchant during Friday’s post-Cabinet briefing. Merchant explained that the Forestry Division had advised the Cabinet that the original target was unfeasible, prompting a reevaluation of the initiative. The revised goal, now set at 300,000 trees, reflects a more realistic and achievable approach, ensuring the program’s success and proper implementation. The Forestry Division, alongside the Department of Agriculture and other relevant agencies, will spearhead the adjusted campaign. This move underscores the government’s commitment to aligning its environmental agenda with expert insights, prioritizing practicality and sustainability in national reforestation efforts.

Antigua and Barbuda has been chosen as the host nation for a significant U.S. legal conference organized by the Black Bar Association of the United States, scheduled for January 2024. The announcement was made by Cabinet spokesman Maurice Merchant during a post-Cabinet briefing on Friday. Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin confirmed that the association has finalized its plans to hold the event in Antigua, marking another milestone in the country’s growing portfolio of international gatherings. This decision underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s emerging status as a prime destination for high-profile professional, legal, and academic conferences. Merchant emphasized that the government views this development as a testament to the nation’s enhanced reputation as a regional hub for major events. He highlighted the country’s improved infrastructure, robust air connectivity, and its welcoming environment for international delegations as key factors driving this trend. While specific details regarding the number of attendees and conference sessions remain undisclosed, Merchant assured that further information will be released by the Attorney General’s office closer to the event. The government anticipates substantial economic benefits from the influx of conference tourism, including increased hotel bookings, restaurant patronage, and local spending. This initiative aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to diversify tourism and attract new visitor demographics to the country.

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched a homicide investigation following a fatal shooting incident on Upper Fort Road. Louis Armstrong, a 43-year-old local resident, tragically passed away on Saturday morning at approximately 7:24 a.m. while receiving medical care at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The incident occurred early Friday morning near Toy Toy Restaurant, where Armstrong was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his chest, eye, and left hand. Police officers swiftly responded to the scene after receiving reports of the shooting. Authorities are now actively investigating the case as a murder and are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the perpetrator(s). Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or use the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).