Minister Kyle Hodge in tractor driver’s seat and Permanent Secretary Chanelle Petty Barrett (third left) with Department of Natural Resources staff.
ANGUILLA--Themed “It’s Local, It’s Fresh! Home Grown is Always Best”, Anguilla’s Department of Natural Resources is launching a month-long Buy Local awareness campaign to promote and showcase the island’s diverse array of local agricultural and fish products. Beginning today, April 1, the month-long event will culminate with an Open Market Day on Friday, April 30.
Chief Natural Resources Officer Melissa Meade chaired a press briefing on Tuesday, March 30, to provide details of the month-long activity. She was joined by key stakeholders, who all provided short and insightful details into the planning and expected outcomes of this initiative. Stakeholders included Minister of Economic Development, Commerce, Information Technology & Natural Resources Kyle Hodge, Director of Natural Resources/Agriculture William Vanterpool, Director of Natural Resources/Fisheries Kafi Gumbs, President of the National Farmers’ Association Conrad Gumbs and Representative of the National Farmers’ Association/Livestock Calvin Samuel.
Meade said, “The recognition that this sector made up of agriculture, fisheries and the environment is of strategic importance to Anguilla has been one giant leap towards greater inclusiveness and strategic linkages with other sectors. We are currently under pressure to increase production and provide quality food to local consumers while reducing risks posed by climate change. This sector is constrained by limited resources as well as market access. However, there are technical persons within the department who can assist us [to – Ed.] manoeuver within this landscape. Food production within Anguilla must remain achievable and [we must] ensure that there is a healthy habitat for business development, from the fishers to the livestock and crop farmers.” She stressed that her department must be vocal about buying local.
Minister Hodge said it was a pleasure to attend the launch and added that he was totally in love with the campaign’s fitting slogan which amplifies the message clearly. He said, “Homegrown is always the best for many reasons, with the obvious one being that it is healthier, it is organic, it doesn’t contain harmful pesticides, and most importantly, Anguillians pride ourselves on producing the very best. We go all out to ensure quality and customer satisfaction.” He said he wanted to reassure all farmers, producers and fisherfolk that his ministry is fully committed to the diversification and growth of Anguilla’s economy in a way that benefits them. He said the combining of economic development and natural resources is a perfect marriage and over time will get better.
Following the one-hour presentation, both staff and attendees gathered to inspect and admire a brand new tractor delivered only a few days before. There will be a formal unveiling and introduction ceremony of the equipment in the near future, following the final acceptance inspections.
