Statia Delegation Gains Insights from St. Kitts & Nevis Field Trip
On 4 December 2024, Commissioner Rechelline Leerdam and a delegation from Statia visited St. Kitts and Nevis as part of a two-week workshop facilitated by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).
The delegation also comprised of board members from the island’s farmers and fisherman’s foundation. The trip aimed to gather insights on sustainable agriculture and fisheries practices to support Statia’s Strategic Action Plan for Sustainable Agriculture (SAPSA). The SAPSA, part of the EU Budget Support Programme, focuses on reducing Statia’s dependence on imported food and fostering economic growth. During the workshops, various sustainable practices which could be suitable for Statia was explored. Discussions focused on developing advanced poultry and goat farming, fish processing, and sustainable crop production methods such as hydroponics and container farming.
During the visit to Nevis, the delegation observed government-led crop and meat processing facilities and learned how small-scale farmers integrate into a larger system, producing value-added goods like seasoned meats and alternative flours. The visit also highlighted the importance of nurseries for providing farmers with affordable, high-quality seeds and seedlings, and the use of cooling storage solutions to maintain product quality.
On their visit to St. Kitts, the delegation examined semi-intensive livestock farming and shade house systems, which offer resource-efficient crop production methods that align with Statia’s goals. These insights will help Statia develop its SAPSA plan, fostering regional collaboration to achieve shared goals of sustainability, food security, and economic resilience.