Michael Joseph, representing Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture Forum for Youth (ABAFY) and one of the youths from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), recently returned from the first official OECS Joint Meeting and Study Tour of Ministers, Women, and Youth of Agriculture in Costa Rica. The trip, organized by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and the OECS Commission, focused on policy development and partnership building.

“It was an honor and a humbling experience,” Joseph said of the event, where he delivered an address encouraging regional collaboration. “We often talk about great ideas, but real progress comes when we follow through.”

Key issues discussed included climate-resilient agriculture, youth and women empowerment, and implementation of the OECS FAST Strategy. Joseph emphasized the importance of tailored lending policies, crop insurance, and technical training. “We need more flexible lending options for youth, and access to training at institutions like CATIE to build our capacity.”

At CATIE, Costa Rica’s top agricultural research and training institute, Joseph met with leadership to explore educational opportunities for OECS youth. “Their modular education system allows young people to earn a degree over time — perfect for those who are already farming or working.”

Field visits included cocoa, coffee, and banana plantations, where the group observed research on TR4-resistant banana varieties. “TR4 is a major threat to the banana industry,” Joseph noted. “Resistant strains could be a lifeline for the Caribbean.”

Joseph described the tour as inspiring, saying, “I left with a stronger network, deeper insights, and a clearer direction for advancing youth in agriculture.” Plans are now in motion to tailor CATIE programs for the region and to explore funding opportunities. Discussions have also begun on re-establishing a regional youth agriculture platform to strengthen advocacy and collaboration.

The study tour, Joseph said, marks a key step toward building a more resilient and inclusive agricultural future for OECS youth and organizations like ABAFY.