Nevis Achieves Enhanced Food Security through Sustained Growth in Food Production

The Nevis Island Administration (NIA), spearheaded by its Ministry of Agriculture, has achieved remarkable success in boosting food production throughout 2024, significantly advancing the island’s journey towards food security and sovereignty. This accomplishment underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to sustainable agricultural development, as emphasized by Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Eric Evelyn, during the NIA’s 2024 Budget Debate. The minister highlighted the administration’s strategic focus on empowering local farmers and fishers, resulting in tangible increases in production across various agricultural sectors. This progress not only strengthens Nevis’ food security but also contributes to the island’s economic growth and resilience.

A key indicator of this success is the substantial increase in watermelon production, which surged by an impressive 92.5 percent compared to 2023, reaching 140,610 pounds. This growth signifies not only increased quantity but also diversified varieties, with red, yellow, and seedless watermelons now available in the local market. This increase in domestic production has led to a dramatic decrease in watermelon imports, further solidifying the island’s progress towards self-sufficiency. The expansion in watermelon production demonstrates the effectiveness of the NIA’s agricultural policies and the responsiveness of Nevisian farmers.

Beyond watermelons, other key crops like bananas and plantains also experienced significant production increases on private farms. This diversified growth further reduces Nevis’ dependence on imported produce, strengthening its local food system and supporting local farmers. The NIA’s commitment to providing support and resources to farmers has been instrumental in facilitating these production increases and fostering a thriving agricultural sector.

One of the key drivers of Nevis’ agricultural success has been the widespread adoption and implementation of shade house technology. The island has emerged as a leader in the sub-region, surpassing even the Leeward and Windward Islands in both the adoption and effectiveness of this innovative farming technique. With 24 shade houses currently under cultivation, producing a diverse range of crops including lettuce, tomatoes, sweet peppers, cucumbers, herbs, and cabbage, this technology has significantly boosted production while addressing land constraints. Shade houses now contribute approximately 50 percent of short-term crops grown on Nevis, demonstrating their crucial role in the island’s agricultural landscape. This has enabled Nevis to achieve near self-sufficiency in lettuce production, with 90 percent of the lettuce consumed on the island being locally grown.

The success of Nevis’ agricultural initiatives is further underscored by the increased payouts to farmers at the Larinson Parry Agricultural Depot, which rose by 29.8 percent in 2024, reaching $306,064. This increase reflects the growing productivity of Nevisian farmers and the effective marketing efforts of the Department of Agriculture. The Department plays a vital role in supporting farmers, not only by providing resources and technical assistance but also by facilitating the sale of their produce, ensuring that local food reaches consumers. This collaborative approach strengthens the entire agricultural value chain, contributing to both economic growth and food security.

The Department of Agriculture has also played a pivotal role in improving the availability, variety, and quality of produce at the depot. Through organized sales events held throughout the year, the Department has ensured that households across Nevis have access to fresh, wholesome, locally grown food. This commitment to accessibility and quality reinforces the NIA’s dedication to promoting healthy eating habits and supporting the local agricultural community. The increased availability and diversity of local produce not only enhances food security but also empowers consumers to make healthier choices.

The NIA’s sustained focus on agricultural development has yielded impressive results, establishing Nevis as a regional leader in food security. The significant increases in production, diversification of crops, and effective marketing strategies demonstrate the effectiveness of the administration’s policies and the hard work of Nevisian farmers. This continued momentum positions Nevis for further growth and strengthens its ability to provide for its citizens, ensuring a sustainable and resilient food system for the future. The NIA’s commitment to revolutionizing agriculture has not only enhanced food security but also contributed to economic growth and the overall well-being of the island community.