640 layer chicks arrive in St Kitts and Nevis; agriculture sector continues to flourish

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources of St Kitts and Nevis welcomed 640 layer chicks at the RLB International Airport, aiming to boost the poultry industry. The arrival of chicks highlight the continuous efforts undertaken by the authorities towards achieving their “25 by 25 agenda.

As per the details, the arrival of 640-layer chicks is a part of the Layer Chicken Industry Sustainable Development Project. It is a joint venture between the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (Taiwan ICDF) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources.

The main motive behind this project is to provide farmers with the essential support of over twenty-thousand-day-old chicks per year. It would later play a huge role in helping farmers in both meat and egg production.

Recently, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources of St Kitts and Nevis also officially commissioned the new Layer Chicken Hatchery at the Bayford’s Livestock Centre of Excellence.

These continuous steps and projects undertaken by the Ministry shed light on their commitment towards increasing local egg production and food security in the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis.

The authorities added that they are committed to establishing a sustainable agricultural economy in the Federation. These projects outline their commitment to leading their agenda of becoming a sustainable island state.

Moreover, the Minister of Agriculture, Samal Duggins shed light on the achievements of the authorities made by them in the sector over the years. The Minister stated that they embarked on their journey in 2022 aiming to reduce imports by 25% by December 2025.

He stated that they held several consultations with their food heroes and found land preparation, one of the biggest challenges in their way of the 25 by 25 agenda. He added that they made several significant investments and efforts and finally, they were able to secure a brand-new land preparation equipment for the first time in 7 years.

Minister Samal Duggins also mentioned about obtaining new tractors, backhoe and stated that they are committed to build a more resilient and self-sufficient St Kitts and Nevis. He added that all these investments shed light on their unwavering commitment to empowering their farmers and boosting local food production.

The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance Drew also lauded the Minister of Agriculture, Samal Duggins and the SKNLP government. He added that the Ministry of Agriculture have done an excellent work with the strong collaboration by the Republic of China (Taiwan).

The Prime Minister stated that the agriculture sector of St Kitts and Nevis is elevating to greater heights with the new farm equipment and the launch of the new hatchery. He added that their farmers are now truly set and ready for their 25 by 2025 agenda.