Farmers, Fishers Advocate Food Security at AACIS 2026

News in brief:

-Farmers and fishers from St. Kitts and Nevis emphasised the importance of agriculture and food security at AACIS 2026 in Abuja.

-The summit strengthened ties between Africa and the Caribbean, with new initiatives aimed at improving connectivity and agricultural collaboration.

Farmers and fishers from Saint Kitts and Nevis have highlighted the importance of agriculture and fisheries to economic development and food security during the Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit 2026 held recently in Abuja, Nigeria.

The summit brought together government officials, private sector leaders and agricultural stakeholders to strengthen economic cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean.

Push for Stronger Africa-Caribbean Connectivity

Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Terrance Drew, used the summit to advance efforts aimed at strengthening ties with the African continent.

He spearheaded an initiative to bridge the travel gap between the two regions, leading to the launch of direct air connectivity between Africa and the Caribbean.

The move eliminates the need for travellers to transit through Europe or North America, routes that often involve complicated visa requirements.

Agriculture Positioned as an Economic Driver

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, Samal Duggins, stressed the need to reposition agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and regional prosperity.

To deepen collaboration, the delegation included local farmers and fishers who participated in discussions and networking sessions at the summit.

Local fisher Mervin Maynard described the summit as a powerful moment of unity between Africa and the Caribbean. He noted the emotional significance of visiting Nigeria, which he described as part of his ancestral homeland, while encouraging fellow fishers to remain committed to their work.

According to him, dedication and hard work in the fishing industry can open doors to global opportunities.

Farmers Stress Importance of Nutrition Security

Crop farmer Denise Gillard highlighted the importance of nutrition security, describing it as essential for survival and sustainable development. She said the summit created opportunities to exchange ideas and establish partnerships with farmers and stakeholders from Africa.

Gillard also encouraged women farmers to remain determined despite the challenges often faced in a male-dominated sector.

Livestock farmer Devin Richardson also emphasised the importance of the sector in feeding the population. He described the opportunity to travel directly to Nigeria for the summit as a significant moment, noting that agriculture plays a crucial role in sustaining communities.

Richardson encouraged other farmers to remain confident in their work and continue contributing to national food production.

The collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean is expected to continue with the upcoming Fifth Annual AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum 2026.

The event will take place from July 29 to 31 at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort in Basseterre, where leaders and investors will further explore opportunities for trade, investment and agricultural cooperation between the two regions.