Keynote speaker Jordan Every shared her thoughts on the global theme for this year, "Right to food for a better life and better future”.
Every stated that food is a cornerstone of society, with every individual deserving access to nutritious and affordable food. With traditional farming and animal husbandry, which has been historically embraced by the Saban community, Saba has also embraced modern practices such as hydroponics to nurture local food production.
Sam Frederick, the Lead farmer of Saba Grows Hydroponics, emphasized the importance of agricultural technology and community involvement in ensuring food security on Saba, given the limited space on the island as well as challenges with in-ground farming.
Frederick also gave a short tour showing the new improvements made to the hydroponic farm. These included two new green houses, two bucket units of 65 buckets each, one unit of 72 buckets, 15 tower units and one NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) unit.
The Public Entity Saba provided dozens of different kinds of seeds and seedlings to guests interested in backyard farming. This was part of the food security project funded by the NEPP (Nature and Environment Policy Plan). Cilantro, tomatoes, and eggplants were among the types of seeds distributed to guests. This project also helped make available raised beds at a subsidized price.
Working in collaboration with the World Food Day, the Reforestation team, with funding also by the NEPP, distributed 126 different kinds of trees such as mango, guava, and avocado to those who attended. For those who are interested in growing their own trees and were unable to get them on the day of the event, please contact justin.simmons@sabagov.nl.
The event concluded with a barbecue with local goat and pork meat provided by the butcher station.
As Saba hosted its 2024 World Food Day with innovative and traditional farming practices, the island steadily moves closer to achieving food security and self-sustainability, ensuring a resilient future for Saba.
