The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national food security and expanding agricultural production, following the successful repossession of underutilized agricultural lands.

According to Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, Cabinet has reviewed progress on its policy decision—taken several months ago—to reclaim unused and non-performing farmland and return it to active production.

Merchant said Minister for Agriculture, Anthony Smith, reported that approximately 150 acres of farmland have so far been repossessed by the Ministry of Agriculture. The lands were previously underutilized or not actively cultivated.

The Director General explained that the repossession initiative forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to increase domestic food production, reduce reliance on imported goods, and ensure that productive lands are placed in the hands of committed and capable farmers.

Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant (screenshot of state media)

During this week’s Cabinet meeting, Minister Smith presented recommendations for the immediate reallocation of a portion of the recovered acreage. Cabinet agreed to dedicate 75 acres specifically to youth and women farmers under a targeted empowerment and agricultural development programme.

Merchant noted that this allocation reflects the Government’s recognition of the vital role young people and women play in modernizing and sustaining the agricultural sector.

“This initiative is designed to expand access to arable land, foster entrepreneurship, increase agricultural output, and stimulate economic activity in rural communities,” Merchant indicated.

He further explained that the Ministry of Agriculture will issue structured rental agreements to selected farmers to ensure accountability and proper land use. Performance assessments will be conducted, and farmers who meet established production benchmarks will qualify for longer-term lease arrangements.

According to Merchant, this merit-based, productivity-driven approach ensures that land distribution aligns with national agricultural priorities while safeguarding land as a strategic national asset.

Cabinet emphasized that agricultural lands must be actively cultivated in the interest of food security, economic resilience, and national development.

The Government, Merchant added, remains resolute in its efforts to strengthen local food systems, support high-performing farmers who require additional acreage, and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders.