St. Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew along with Samal Duggins planted the first Tabasco Pepper seedlings at Fahies Estate in Newton Ground. On Wednesday, November 06, 2024 they marked an important and transformative milestone in boosting agricultural productivity. 

PM Drew shared the glimpses of the activity on his official social media handle along with a note, in which he expressed that their partnership with the TABASCO brand, produced by the McIlhenny Company is all set to create numerous job opportunities that will further strengthen the economy. 

He added further that the government will remain committed to invest in agriculture as part of their broader vision to transform St. Kitts and Nevis into a sustainable island state. 

The project, which was launched through a groundbreaking partnership with the globally renowned TABASCO Brand, signifies the start of what could be the nation’s largest crop export since sugar. 

As per the sources, it is not only about peppers, but also majorly about the promise of a resilient and self-sufficient economy, that will be built on the soil. Through this SEED initiative, the Sustainable Economic Expansion and Diversification, the ministers need to turn their focus towards the land, that will prioritize sustainable, local food production, reducing dependence on external income sources and will position the farmers for access to global markets. 

Considering this, Prime Minister Drew said during his speech that through this initiative, St. Kitts and Nevis can look forward to the increased agricultural productivity, which will create new jobs and more robust economy capable of withstanding global economic pressures.  

PM Drew extended special thanks to Agriculture Minister – Samal Duggins and his team for their tireless efforts in advancing the vital sector. 

Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries – Samal Duggins acknowledged that with the support of the esteemed Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew and SKNLP government led by him, their objective is to foster sustainable economic growth, empower the farmers and bring agriculture back to the forefront of the nation’s future. 

Duggins expressed further that as Minister of Agriculture, he is honoured to lead this mission as they work together to create a prosperous St. Kitts and Nevis, one seedling at a time.