By Special contributor
St JOHN’S, Antigua – The Renaissance, 2026 manifesto of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), says it will put food security and food sovereignty at the heart of national development, heading into the April 30, 2026, general elections.
The Country Programming Framework (CPF) for Antigua and Barbuda, notes:
“This CPF sets out three government priority areas to guide FAO partnership and support with the government of Antigua and Barbuda – bringing together innovative international best practices and global standards with national and regional expertise during four years, from 2016 to 2019.
“Food and Nutrition Security, focusing on agricultural diversification, nutrition education, strengthened governance in FNS and poverty reduction programmes, addressing strategies for reducing food loss across key value chains, and improving the capacity of government to make better evidence-based decisions using an efficient data management system for agriculture.
“Small scale Farming/Family Farming, supporting farmers’ organisations by developing public purchasing policy and programmes which will link farmers to national institutions, such as the school feeding programmes, developing strategies to strengthen the inclusion and productivity of small livestock farmers and emphasising market access and value chain development.
“Natural Resource Management and Risk Reduction, focusing on sustainable agroforestry management, improved institutional capacity for water resource management and pest and disease management in the agricultural sector.”
Backyard gardening
In addition, the FAO document notes meeting the zero hunger challenge:
“Antigua and Barbuda has a long tradition of backyard (or “kitchen”) gardens. With most households producing enough to meet their immediate needs, the main benefits are savings on food purchases and improved nutritional status. However, a number of households do sell produce at local markets and shops. Backyard vegetable production is also a good means of food security in times of extreme weather events. [ …]”
The Renaissance: “Will put food security and food sovereignty at the heart of national development.“
“We will continue investing in the productive strength of our farmers through land clearing and ploughing support, farm roads, dams and ponds, subsidised water, free fertilisers, and duty and tax concessions on tractors, transport, and agricultural equipment. We will also modernise farm security and productivity through solar lighting and cameras, helping farmers work more safely and more effectively, including in periods of extreme heat linked to climate change.
“At the same time, we are building the infrastructure required for a stronger agricultural future. Two abattoirs, including a poultry abattoir, will support local meat production. Investment in the Central Marketing Corporation will be increased. The new facility at Cassada Gardens will provide cold storage, refrigeration, and a modern food emporium, improving distribution, reducing waste, and strengthening market access.
“The benefits will be direct and practical. Farmers will enjoy more reliable markets and stronger support. Consumers will benefit from improved supply, better quality, and lower prices. We will also encourage greater value-added activity through processing, packaging, canning, and bottling, so that more of the wealth generated from agriculture remains in Antigua and Barbuda.
“Affordable financing through the Prime Minister’s Entrepreneurial Fund and other accessible credit mechanisms will continue to help farmers expand, modernise, and succeed.”
