Virgin Islands distributes 1,000 seedlings at World Food Day celebration

The Virgin Islands joined the worldwide marking of World Food Day on October 16 with a Market and Food Fair that brought together residents and visitors to recognise the importance of building food security across the Territory.

Under the theme "Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow", the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries gave away roughly 1,000 seedlings at no cost to the public. The plants included tomato, cabbage, arugula, eggplant, kale and cucumber, along with parsley seeds. Officials said the giveaway was designed to spur backyard gardening and household food production, helping residents take part in strengthening the Territory's food resilience.

The fair showcased the work of local farmers, fishers, egg producers, value-added entrepreneurs and food vendors, who displayed locally grown produce, innovative products, fresh seafood and traditional cuisine. The event aimed to deepen appreciation for what local producers contribute to the Territory's food supply and economy.

Educational partners used the occasion to teach practical skills in food preservation, value addition and waste reduction. Imagination Academy students displayed pickles, chutneys and eggplant-based products, including muffins and beverages made from locally grown ingredients. Agape Total Life Academy presented items derived from local plants, such as lemongrass oil for aromatherapy and trumpet leaf iced tea. The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College Culinary Department explained how to reduce food waste by using vegetables fully through salt and sugar pickling and other preservation techniques. Steakation Butchers demonstrated filleting and pickling red snapper and traditional fish-salting methods, showing how seafood can be preserved and value-added to reduce post-harvest losses.

Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley told attendees that buying locally produced goods strengthens the Territory's economy and resilience. "When local produce is available, buy local first," he said. "Buying local keeps more money circulating within our economy. It supports Virgin Islands families and businesses. It encourages greater production. And, importantly, it strengthens our ability to withstand the next international disruption."

Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer Ms. Henrietta Alexander stressed that food security must go hand in hand with food safety, and that environmental health services play a key role in ensuring food meets appropriate safety standards. Director of Agriculture and Fisheries Mr Theodore James said building a food-secure Virgin Islands requires commitment from farmers, fishers, consumers, educational institutions and the broader community.