Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. says the government has launched the Plant2Plate Antigua and Barbuda Initiative, anchored by a renewed Backyard Gardening Competition aimed at strengthening local food production and national food security.

“We’re thrilled to launch the ‘Plant2Plate Antigua and Barbuda Initiative’ with our beloved Backyard Gardening Competition,” Smith said in a public statement.

The initiative encourages households to grow their own food, with this year’s competition built around the theme, “Homegrown today, food secure tomorrow.” Smith said the theme underscores the role that home gardening can play in improving food security across the country.

“Every seed sown contributes to food security,” he said.

As part of the programme, the Ministry is also introducing a new “Cook What You Grow” Culinary Showcase, which will highlight dishes prepared using produce grown in participants’ backyard gardens.

Smith urged residents to take part in both components of the initiative, calling on them to “join the competition and showcase your gardening skills.”

“Let’s dig in, plant those seeds, and cultivate a food secure Antigua and Barbuda,” he said.