Young Virgin Islands Farmers Join OECS Agriculture Talks in Costa Rica

Two young farmers from the Virgin Islands recently represented their Territory at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Council of Ministers for Agriculture meeting, held from May 26 to May 30 at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).

Marley Donovan of Aukie’s Farm and Basheera Maduro, a student and crop and livestock farmer, participated in the regional event alongside Honourable Dr. Karl Dawson, who attended on behalf of Premier and Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley.

The meeting brought together ministers, policymakers, and young agricultural leaders from across the Eastern Caribbean to address current challenges in the sector, explore sustainable practices, and discuss strategies for boosting youth participation in agriculture.

Workshops, technical site visits, and collaborative sessions focused on topics such as climate-resilient farming, regenerative agriculture, market development, and the integration of technology in food production.

“We were exposed to regenerative agriculture and natural pest control methods, which can make a big difference in how we farm at home,” Donovan said following the event.

Maduro noted the importance of learning from regional peers and accessing innovation: “There were so many valuable insights on the role of technology and partnerships in helping young farmers succeed.”

The OECS Council identified several barriers facing young people in agriculture, including restricted access to financing, land, and infrastructure, as well as high input costs. Proposed solutions included the creation of mentorship programs, integrating agriculture into school curricula, expanding agro-processing facilities, and offering greater access to low-interest loans and grants.

A key outcome of the meeting was the formation of the OECS Agriculture Forum for Youth—a new platform aimed at giving young agricultural professionals a voice in shaping policy and programming.

According to the Government of the Virgin Islands, these regional efforts align with its ongoing commitment to youth empowerment in the agricultural sector. The participation of young farmers in international discussions is seen as an important step toward ensuring long-term sustainability and economic resilience.