The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) in Antigua and Barbuda hosted its 2025 Accountability Seminar on Tuesday under the theme “Agriculture Today… Food Sustainability Tomorrow”, bringing together government officials, farmers, youth representatives, development partners and other stakeholders.

Held at the John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Centre, the seminar reviewed IICA’s achievements during 2025 and outlined priorities for 2026, with a focus on food security, climate resilience, agricultural innovation, youth engagement and rural development.

Participants heard testimonials from local beneficiaries, including SHAADE Hydroponics CEO Sherrie-Ann Brazier and Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture Forum for Youth (ABAFY) President Michael Joseph, who highlighted the positive impact of IICA-supported initiatives.

IICA Eastern Caribbean States Representative Gregg Rawlins emphasized the importance of partnerships and innovation in addressing challenges such as climate change, food insecurity and rising food import costs.

A key feature of the event was the presentation of IICA’s 2025 Annual Report and 2026 Workplan by National Specialist Craig Thomas. The report highlighted initiatives including the Next Generation Sweet Potato Production Project, rehabilitation of the Antigua Black Pineapple, climate-smart agriculture programmes and disaster preparedness efforts.

Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. commended IICA’s contribution to the sector and stressed the need for continued investment and collaboration to strengthen local food production and sustainability.

The seminar concluded with an open discussion on future priorities and the distribution of annual reports to key partners and stakeholders, reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing agriculture and food security in Antigua and Barbuda.