Residents Urged to Boost Local Food Production
Director of Agriculture Theodore James has urged BVI residents to take a more active role in food production, saying agriculture cannot be left solely to farmers or government. His comments echo Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s recent call for backyard farming and greater public support for local farmers and fishers amid global supply uncertainties.
Director of Agriculture Theodore James is asking residents across the British Virgin Islands to take personal responsibility for food production, saying the task cannot fall exclusively on farmers or the government. Speaking in a recent ZBVI interview, James emphasised that building food security requires a collective effort. "It is not only on the farmer, it is on all of us as individuals," he said, urging people to invest in backyard gardens, hydroponics and aquaponics to help stabilise local food supplies.
James’ remarks follow similar appeals from Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, who has urged residents to support local producers and consider small-scale food production at home. The Agriculture Director warned that global uncertainties affecting supply chains make local production more important than ever for ensuring consistent availability of food in the territory.
While acknowledging the government’s role, James stressed limits on what officials can do alone. "We are doing the best that we can — to assist where we can, to provide finances where we can, to provide training where we can," he said. He encouraged farmers, fishers and backyard growers to take the training and resources offered and multiply their efforts to create a wider "ripple effect" across the islands.
James also called on those in the sector to adopt a business mindset. "A farmer and fisher are not just that — they are CEOs of their company," he said, noting that successful operations require entrepreneurs willing to make tough decisions about production, marketing and financial management.
For BVI residents, James’ message translates into several practical steps: start or expand a backyard garden, explore low-footprint systems such as hydroponics and aquaponics, buy directly from local farmers and fishers where possible, and take advantage of any government training or small-grant opportunities.
Strengthening local markets and supply chains can reduce dependence on imports and cushion the territory against external shocks. As the territory navigates rising costs and global instability, officials are framing food security as a shared responsibility. James’ appeal underscores that government support and individual initiative must work together if the BVI is to grow a more resilient, locally sustained food system.
Primary source: BVI News