The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and labour launched its activities to commemorate World Food Day 2025 on Thursday, October 9th, at the Grenadines House conference room.

This year’s celebration, which is observed annually on October 16th, marks the 80th anniversary of World Food Day and will be held under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”

World Food Day, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, aims to raise global awareness on food security and the promotion of sustainable agriculture. 

Addressing the event, Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Saboto Caesar, highlighted the vital role the agricultural sector plays in every country as well as the opportunities and the exponential growth in the different industries that rely on the sector.

Saboto Caesar

Minister Caesar also expressed his anticipation for a brilliant exposition involving students, farmers and fishers on October 16th.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Cuthbert Knights said that World Food Day serves as an opportunity to make tangible and meaningful steps towards enhancing resilience, inclusiveness and sustainability within the agri-food systems.

Cuthbert Knights

Mr. Knights further noted that the observance of the day reflects the progress Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has achieved under the Food Security and Nutrition Policy Framework, while reaffirming the nation’s commitment to future development goals.

Additional remarks were delivered by Mr. Colville King, Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer; Mr. Renato Gumbs, Chief Agricultural Officer; Dr. Coleen Phillips, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) National Correspondent; and Mrs. Safia Horne-Bique, Chief Executive Officer, Zero Hunger Trust Fund.

Coleen Phillips

Safia Horne-Bique

World Food Day 2025 will be celebrated at the North Union Playing Field and will feature an exhibition of agricultural produce as well as displays by Agro- processors and agricultural entrepreneurs.

Students from various schools across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will be in attendance at the event.

SOURCE: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour