Celebrating those who feed the nation

From the rising of the sun to its setting in the evening, farmers across Barbados can be found tending to the land, watering seedlings, feeding livestock and harvesting crops. Their hands are calloused, their days are long, but their work ensures that every Barbadian has food on the table.

It is this tireless dedication that World Food Day 2025 seeks to celebrate.

Observed on October 16, under the global theme Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future, the day is both a tribute to those who feed the nation and a reminder that food security is everyone’s business.

Acting Chief Agricultural Officer Michael James said the theme captures a truth that Barbadians must never forget: agriculture is the foundation of life — and no one can do it alone.

“You can’t be an island. We all must do it together. The ministry can’t do anything without the farmers, and the farmers can’t do everything by themselves. We must help one another — and for that matter, we must also get help from the citizenry,” James explained.

When Barbadians walk through a supermarket, few pause to consider the journey that food takes to reach the shelves.

“Food doesn’t just appear. It comes from the hands of farmers who work long hours to produce the primary products that are later transformed into what we see, from cornflakes to orange juice,” James reminded us.
He stressed that agriculture is not just about production, but about partnership.

“If a farmer is out in the field before sunrise tending to his animals or crops, and then someone steals what he has produced, that affects the whole supply chain,” he said, referring to the challenge of praedial larceny.
He added: “This is why we need the support of the public because the food we eat depends on their protection and participation.”

The ministry continues to support farmers through rebate programmes, access to improved crop varieties that can withstand drought and flooding, and breeding initiatives designed to strengthen livestock resilience.
“All of this is to ensure that Barbadians have access not only to food, but to safe and affordable food. That’s what true self-sufficiency means,” James explained.

James noted that a strong agricultural sector today must also be a scientific one. The ministry is modernising its laboratory facilities at both the Veterinary Services Department and the Government Analytical Services Unit to provide high-quality testing and diagnostic services for farmers and food producers.

A major development is the creation of a new tissue culture facility to supply farmers with clean planting material.

“Last year’s sweet potato crop suffered because of unclean material and too much rain. By providing clean tissue culture plants, we can ensure stronger yields and safer food for consumers,” he recalled.

At the same time, the Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (BADMC) is expanding its Accelerated Cultivation Programme, focusing on key crops such as onions, sweet potatoes, and yams.
“It’s about ensuring that we have a steady, reliable supply of locally grown produce — and that farmers have more opportunities to market what they grow through BADMC,” James said.

This year’s celebration will be more than a day of speeches: it’s an entire week of education and engagement designed to bring agriculture to life.

Since early October, students have been visiting key agricultural facilities such as the Cheapside Market, Southern Meats, and the Tissue Culture Laboratory.

“We want our young people to see agriculture in action. They are the ones who will drive the sector in years to come,” the acting chief agricultural officer said.

The week culminated in an open day at the Ministry of Agriculture, Graeme Hall, on Thursday, October 16, where the public experienced everything from machinery demonstrations and innovation displays to local produce and entertainment.

Among the highlights:

• Agricultural machinery demonstrations, including a rock crusher, soil layer, and onion topper.
• Drone and virtual reality showcases introducing modern farming techniques.
• Displays of hydroponics and aeroponics systems for sustainable production.
• Young farmers from the Feed Programme exhibiting and selling their produce.
• Live entertainment by Marvay and a “Get Fit with Spinny” session promoting healthy living.

As part of its community outreach, the ministry will also present food hampers to four organisations: the HIV/AIDS Food Bank, Street Lamp, the Child Care Board, and the Geriatric Hospital.

“It’s a way of sharing the fruits of our labour with those who need it most,” the senior agriculture officer stressed.

James shared the view that achieving food sovereignty begins with valuing what is grown at home.

“We must appreciate what we produce and make it part of our diet. Eat local; use the cassava, the yams, the sweet potatoes when they are in season,” he urged.

He echoed the timeless words of agricultural pioneer Carmeta Fraser: “Food comes first: Eat what you grow, grow what you eat.”

“This year’s theme, Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future, is not just a slogan,” he further added: “It is about healthier citizens, empowered farmers, and a nation that values its own food. Together, we can make it happen.”

For the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security, World Food Day represents more than a celebration — it’s a reaffirmation of purpose. The ministry’s mission aligns with the government’s vision of ensuring that every Barbadian has access to nutritious, affordable, and safe food.

“Our message from the minister, the permanent secretary, and all our officers is clear. We cannot do it alone. Hand in hand, we can secure better food, better health, and a better future for Barbados,” acknowledged James.

(BGIS)