Every year on May 30, the world commemorates the International Day of Potato, and in 2025, the theme is fittingly “Shaping history, feeding the future.”

This global tribute celebrates the humble tuber’s power to nourish nations, adapt to changing climates, and drive innovation in agriculture.

While white potatoes may not dominate in Antigua and Barbuda, the sweet potato is the real “root” of attention.

In fact, we are digging deep into the potential of this vibrant, versatile crop.

As part of a region-wide push, Antigua and Barbuda joined the “Next Generation Sweet Potato Project,” backed by US $180,000 in funding.

The project aims to introduce improved varieties, reduce pest infestations (particularly from the destructive sweet potato weevil), and boost value-added products like fries, flour, and bread.

Local farmers are embracing over 16 varieties of sweet potato including Red King, Catch Me, and Ube.

Through a biocontrol initiative, farmers have swapped harmful pesticides for eco-friendly pheromone traps, proving that sustainability and productivity can go hand in hand.

With sweet potatoes gaining popularity on dinner tables and in agro-processing ventures, Antigua and Barbuda is turning this hearty root into economic opportunity and food security gold.

So as we mark the International Day of Potato, let’s toast to the “sweet success” of a crop that’s feeding futures, one tuber at a time. Because in Antigua and Barbuda, when it comes to agriculture, the future is looking sweeter.