Youth Farmers – By Sharon N Simon
Youth Farmers Propose National
Youth farmers Michael Joseph and Twin I Payne are calling for a national agricultural zoning strategy and expanded water harvesting to meet Antigua’s food security goals.
The 2025 Youth Farmer of the Year and the owner of Twin Stod Enterprises outlined these solutions during an interview on Observer AM to specifically address actions such as the 15 percent regional import reduction target. Joseph proposed designating specific areas of the island for certain crops to prevent market gluts and ensure a steady food supply.
Payne emphasized that consistent production is currently hindered by water scarcity, which forces most farmers to plant only during the rainy season. To resolve this, they recommended the government prioritize additional dam construction and modern engineering to increase the capacity of reservoirs like the Potworks Dam.
On technology, Joseph reported an 80 percent reduction in chemical and fertilizer costs through the use of drones for precision crop care. Both men also noted that farmers must hire dedicated record-keepers to demonstrate creditworthiness to commercial banks, identifying financial documentation as a persistent barrier to accessing capital.
To combat high input prices, Payne advocated for cooperatives to engage in bulk-buying and duty-free imports. The duo further urged the development of proper storage facilities to manage excess produce and prepare it for international markets.
Joseph concluded that while citizens may only require a doctor or lawyer twice a year, they rely on a farmer three times every day.
