A shipment of heavy-duty agricultural equipment procured by the government is expected to arrive in Antigua and Barbuda next week as part of efforts to strengthen food production and support local farmers.

Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. informed Cabinet that the machinery will be used to expand farm infrastructure and improve land preparation across the country.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the equipment forms part of the government’s broader strategy to modernize the agricultural sector.

“The minister explained that the new machinery forms part of the government’s ongoing strategy to modernize the agricultural sector, expand the farm infrastructure, and provide greater operational support to farmers across the country,” Merchant said during the Cabinet briefing.

The shipment includes two excavators, a backhoe, a five-ton wheel loader and a bulldozer.

Merchant said the equipment will be deployed to assist farmers with several critical tasks needed to expand agricultural production.

“They will be deployed by the ministry to assist with land clearing, construction of farm roads, water catchment infrastructure and other essential agricultural works,” he said.

Officials said the machinery will also help the ministry develop water storage systems and improve access to farmland.

Merchant said the equipment will be placed into operation soon after arriving in the country.

“As soon as they arrive on country, they will be put into operation,” he said, noting that the ministry has already identified areas where farm roads, dams and other agricultural infrastructure will be constructed.

Authorities said the initiative is part of a series of investments aimed at addressing longstanding challenges faced by farmers while boosting domestic food production.