Minister of Agriculture Anthony Smith has announced that a shipment of heavy-duty agricultural equipment procured by the government will arrive in Antigua next week, with the machinery set to be deployed immediately in support of land clearing, farm road construction, and water infrastructure development across the country.

Minister Smith reported the development to Cabinet at its meeting Wednesday, describing the new equipment as part of the government’s ongoing strategy to modernise the agricultural sector, expand farm infrastructure, and provide greater operational support to farmers.

The shipment comprises two excavators, one backhoe, a five-tonne wheel loader, and a bulldozer.

Director General for Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant, said the ministry has already identified specific areas where the equipment will be put to work.

“As soon as they arrive on country, they’ll be put into operation,” Merchant said, adding that the machinery “cannot come too soon for the ministry and for farmers.”

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

The equipment will be used to assist with land clearing, construction of farm roads, water catchment infrastructure, and other essential agricultural works.

Merchant confirmed that a list of farmers who have indicated their willingness to participate in the programme has already been compiled by the ministry, and that plans for the construction of dams and ponds, as well as additional water storage facilities, have been developed in advance of the shipment’s arrival.

The arrival of the equipment comes as the government continues to prioritise food security and agricultural modernisation.