Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural sector is set to receive a major boost through an expanding dam construction and rehabilitation programme aimed at improving water access for farmers and strengthening national food security.
Agriculture Minister the Hon. Anthony Smith updated Cabinet on Wednesday regarding ongoing work under the initiative, including progress on the dam currently under construction in the Table Hill Gordon area.
Cabinet was advised that the project is nearing completion and is expected to significantly improve water availability for agricultural activities in surrounding farming communities.
Members were also informed that work is progressing on the construction of a major agricultural dam in Bethesda, which the Ministry intends to develop as a flagship pilot project due to its location within an area comprising more than fifty acres of agricultural land with strong production potential.
The Government said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernize agricultural infrastructure, improve climate resilience, and reduce the impact of drought conditions and irregular rainfall on farming operations.
Expected benefits include increased water storage and irrigation capacity, improved agricultural productivity, and the rehabilitation of underutilized lands into productive farming areas. Officials also anticipate that the project will support the cultivation of crops such as pineapples, vegetables, and fruit trees while helping to reduce the country’s dependence on imported food products.
Cabinet further noted that the Bethesda project is expected to complement the Ministry’s expanding tissue culture programme by providing areas for crop demonstrations, farmer training, planting material multiplication, and climate-smart agricultural practices.
The initiative is also projected to create employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases while encouraging greater youth participation in agriculture.
Cabinet commended the Ministry of Agriculture for its proactive approach to water-resource management and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural development.
