Seedling distribution activities in Barbuda formed part of the ongoing Backyard Gardening Plant 2Plate Competition, aimed at strengthening household food production and improving national food security.

According to Mr. Ika Fergus, Acting Chief Extension Officer, the initiative received a strong response from residents of the sister island, with an encouraging turnout and positive energy throughout the visit.

The engagement was two-fold. Through a collaboration between the Department of Agriculture within the Barbuda Council, an the Extension Division, of the Ministry of Agriculture, a total of 20 trays of seedlings were distributed to participants.

The seedlings include watermelon, cucumber, tomato, sweet pepper, and Chinese cabbage, providing a diverse mix of crops suitable for backyard production and household consumption.

The second objective of the visit focuses on data collection and verification. Extension officers updated records on backyard gardens across Barbuda to identify active producers and better understand their scale of production in an effort to quantify their input to the national food basket.

Accurate data is critical when assessing food security, particularly in determining the contribution backyard gardening makes to Antigua and Barbuda’s overall food supply. This information allows the Ministry to deliver targeted technical support and advisory services where they are most needed.

The broader goal remains clear: to promote the “Grow What You Eat” principle, improve the quality of locally grown produce, and reduce dependence on imported foods.

A structured follow-up plan is already in place through the Backyard Gardening Committe and Extension Officers, including the collection of crop cycle data, ensuring continued monitoring, support, and measurable outcomes from the initiative.