Gov’t meets farmers, fishers on future of agriculture

The Premier’s Office has met with farmers and fishers across the Virgin Islands to discuss a unified strategy for the future of the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

The move comes as the government steps up its push for food security and economic diversification in the territory.

The one-day planning meeting, held on October 3, brought together stakeholders from the Premier’s Office, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the private sector. Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, Permanent Secretary Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe, Deputy Secretary Dr Lavon Chalwell-Brewley, and Director Theodore James were among the officials who participated.

In her opening remarks, Stoutt-Igwe said agriculture and fisheries were not just policy matters but key to national well-being.

“Agriculture and fisheries are not just subjects under the Premier’s portfolio, but vital sectors for our territory’s sustainability. It is often said that the health of a nation is the wealth of a nation. At the heart of this statement is the importance of agriculture and fisheries. What we eat has a major role to play in how healthy we will be,” she stated.

She noted that, in anticipation of the Food Security and Sustainability Act coming into force, the Premier’s Office has established an Agriculture and Fisheries Management Unit. The new unit aims to strengthen engagement between the government and key industry players.

Discussions during the session focused on legislative and policy development, training opportunities, the expansion of school gardens, and plans for World Food Day 2025 and Agriculture and Fisheries Month 2026. Updates were also given on capital projects and the designation of agricultural lands in Anegada.

Premier Wheatley told attendees that agriculture and fisheries have the potential to play a vital role in the Virgin Islands’ economy. He emphasised that direct investment in the private sector could drive innovation and growth while urging responsible resource use to ensure long-term sustainability. He also outlined plans for a new farming and fishing complex to help modernise operations and improve food production.

“Farmers and fishers are the heart of our food system. You live the reality of farming and fishing every day, and your ideas will shape the future of these sectors. Without your voice, the vision would not reflect reality,” Dr Chalwell-Brewley stated during a visioning exercise.

The session ended with a commitment to reconvene for further consultations to finalise a shared vision for the development of agriculture and fisheries across the territory.