The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a major agricultural water infrastructure programme designed to boost food production and build climate resilience across the twin-island nation.
Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith informed Cabinet that construction on a new dam in the Table Hill Gordon area is nearing completion. Separately, work is actively underway on a significant agricultural dam project in Bethesda.
The Bethesda Dam initiative is expected to emerge as a flagship agricultural project, owing to its location within an area encompassing more than 50 acres of productive farmland. Officials say the expanded water infrastructure will meaningfully improve irrigation capacity, reduce the impact of drought conditions, and increase domestic food production.
Cabinet also noted that the project will support the Ministry of Agriculture's tissue culture programme and open pathways for farmer training, youth involvement, and the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.
The initiative forms part of a broader government strategy to modernise the agriculture sector and reduce Antigua and Barbuda's dependence on imported food products.
