Dr. Jerome Thomas to Receive Star of Merit at Agriculture Open Day and Marine Expo

The 30th annual Agriculture Open Day & Marine Expo in St. Kitts, scheduled for October 2nd and 3rd, 2025, carries a special significance this year. It serves as a platform not only to showcase the Federation’s advancements in food security, innovation, and sustainability, but also to honour the remarkable career of Dr. Jerome Thomas, C.S.M., a distinguished son of the soil who has dedicated nearly five decades to the advancement of agriculture and rural development. This landmark event, held at the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park under the theme “Celebrating 30 Years: From Soil to Sea; The Journey to Sustainability,” will pay tribute to Dr. Thomas’s profound impact on the agricultural landscape of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Caribbean region, and beyond. His recent award of the Star of Merit underscores the national and international recognition of his unwavering commitment to the sector.

Dr. Thomas’s journey began humbly in 1974 as a trainee within the St. Kitts Department of Agriculture, a period marked by significant shifts in the nation’s agricultural landscape. The decline of the sugar industry necessitated a critical focus on diversification, and Dr. Thomas emerged as a key figure in this transition. His early research focused on sustainable farming practices, crop diversification, and the modernization of traditional methods. As he climbed the ranks, his influence grew, culminating in his appointment as Director of Agriculture in 1995, a position he held for 12 years. This period encompassed significant challenges, including globalization, shifting trade agreements, and the eventual closure of the sugar industry in 2005. Dr. Thomas’s leadership proved crucial in navigating these turbulent times, guiding farmers through uncertain transitions and advocating for policies that prioritized food security, fisheries development, and building resilience within the agricultural sector.

Dr. Thomas’s influence extended beyond the borders of St. Kitts and Nevis. Following his tenure as Director of Agriculture, he served as a project coordinator at the FAO Sub-Regional Office in Barbados from 2008 to 2010. During this time, he played an instrumental role in supporting the Windward Islands’ transition away from the banana industry, assisting rural communities in diversifying their economies and establishing sustainable livelihoods. This regional experience further solidified his reputation as a leading expert in agricultural development and positioned him for an even more significant role on the international stage. In 2010, his expertise was further recognized with his appointment as FAO Representative for Jamaica, The Bahamas, and Belize, based in Kingston, Jamaica. This significant appointment allowed him to shape agricultural and food security policies across multiple nations, focusing on building resilience, ensuring food safety, and promoting sustainable fisheries management.

The decision to award Dr. Thomas the Star of Merit and to name him patron of the 30th Agriculture Open Day & Marine Expo marks a significant homecoming. It symbolizes the profound impact of his work, which has originated from the soil of St. Kitts and extended to the wider Caribbean and beyond. This recognition highlights not only his technical expertise but also his deep understanding of the interconnectedness between agriculture, fisheries, and rural development, a philosophy that has consistently guided his career. The event’s theme, “From Soil to Sea: The Journey to Sustainability,” perfectly encapsulates Dr. Thomas’s holistic approach to agricultural development and his unwavering belief that the future of small island states rests on the sustainable management of both land and sea resources. It underscores the importance of innovation, equity, and long-term vision in building a prosperous and resilient agricultural sector.

The 30th Agriculture Open Day & Marine Expo provides a unique opportunity to celebrate Dr. Thomas’s legacy and inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders. His career trajectory serves as a powerful example of the transformative power of knowledge, persistence, and vision. Dr. Thomas’s dedication to agriculture is not just a professional accomplishment, but a testament to his belief in the power of agriculture to elevate livelihoods and contribute to national development. His story reminds young people in St. Kitts and Nevis, and across the region, that agriculture remains a vital pillar of survival, food sovereignty, and regional cooperation. By highlighting Dr. Thomas’s contributions, the event aims to instill a sense of pride and encourage greater involvement in this crucial sector.

The recognition bestowed upon Dr. Thomas at this pivotal event transcends mere ceremony; it serves as a powerful educational moment, highlighting the importance of agriculture in national development and regional cooperation. His story underscores the vital role of agriculture in ensuring food security, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and fostering resilience in the face of global challenges. As the Caribbean celebrates Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2025 in conjunction with this event, St. Kitts and Nevis proudly showcases its commitment to the sector by honouring one of its most distinguished sons. Dr. Thomas’s life’s work embodies the resilience and creativity inherent in agriculture, bridging past struggles with present resilience and future possibilities. His recognition reinforces the importance of investing in agricultural development and empowering future generations to carry on the legacy of innovation and sustainability.

The two-day event promises a rich program of activities, showcasing the latest advancements in agriculture and marine resources, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and networking, and celebrating the achievements of individuals like Dr. Thomas who have dedicated their lives to advancing the sector. It is a fitting tribute to a man who has not just talked about farming, but lived it, taught it, and transformed it into a pathway of dignity and opportunity for countless individuals. The 30th Agriculture Open Day & Marine Expo stands as a testament to the enduring importance of agriculture and a celebration of the visionaries who shape its future.