Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), has called on residents, businesses, and institutions across the Virgin Islands to prioritise locally produced food as Government moves to strengthen the Territory’s food security and resilience. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) outlined several Government initiatives aimed at increasing local agricultural and fisheries production. He announced that Government land at Paraquita Bay has been allocated for expanded farming and agricultural production as part of efforts to boost local output. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the 2026 World Food Day Market and Food Fair which took place on Friday, October 16, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the 2026 World Food Day Market and Food Fair which took place on Friday, October 16, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the 2026 World Food Day Market and Food Fair which took place on Friday, October 16, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scences from the 2026 World Food Day Market and Food Fair which took place on Friday, October 16, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Premier Wheatley appealed while addressing a ceremony to observe World Food Day 2026, which was observed globally under the theme 'Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow'. The theme encourages the use of forward-thinking solutions alongside traditional knowledge to build food systems that can nourish current and future generations.

“The day reminds us of our shared responsibility to confront hunger, improve nutrition, and build food systems capable of providing sufficient, diverse, safe and nutritious food for present and future generations,” the Premier said.

He noted that recent disruptions to global fuel supplies, shipping, and supply chains have highlighted the vulnerability of small island economies that rely heavily on imported goods. According to Premier Wheatley, reducing that dependence requires action from every sector of the community.

“Food security is not simply about agriculture and fisheries. Food security is about national resilience,” he said, urging a Territory-wide response to reduce dependence on imported food and energy.

Government investments

Premier Wheatley outlined several Government initiatives for increasing local agricultural and fisheries production. He announced that Government allocated land at Paraquita Bay for expanded farming and agricultural production as part of efforts to boost local output.

Construction is also underway on a permanent Farmers Reservoir at Paraquita Bay, which is expected to provide irrigation water to farmers. The project is scheduled for completion in 2027.

The Premier further reaffirmed that the Agriculture and Fisheries Grant Policy is now in effect, with the first tranche of grants in the final administrative stages. The grants are intended to support farmers, fisherfolk, and other food producers across the Territory.

In addition, the Government has begun the process of constructing a fish landing site at the Omar Hodge Fishermen’s Wharf. Premier Wheatley said the project will help strengthen the local fishing sector and improve support for fisherfolk.

Call to buy local

The Premier urged consumers, hotels, and restaurants to give preference to local produce, poultry, eggs, meats, and seafood whenever they are available. He said increased local purchasing would help keep money within the Virgin Islands economy while supporting local families and businesses.

“Buying local keeps more money circulating within our economy, supports Virgin Islands families and businesses, and strengthens our ability to withstand the next international disruption,” Premier Wheatley said.

He also praised the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for organising the Farmers Market and Food Fair and for promoting food-security awareness in schools and communities.

Support for producers

Premier Wheatley paid tribute to farmers and fisherfolk for their commitment to increasing local production, describing their work as central to the Territory’s resilience.

“Every crop planted, every harvest gathered and every catch brought ashore contributes to our collective resilience. Rest assured, you have the support of your Government and the Territory,” he said.

World Food Day is observed annually on October 16 and highlights the need for collective action to address hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity while promoting resilient and sustainable food systems.