ECCB approves EC$2.4m grant to boost Anguilla’s food security initiatives

The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has approved a second EC$2.4 million grant to strengthen Anguilla’s food security initiatives.

It will help to build on progress made through the first grant by supporting farmers and fishers, increasing domestic food production and reducing reliance on imported food.

Natural resources minister Kyle Hodge, speaking on behalf of parliamentary secretary Cordell Richardson, announced the additional funding at a government press conference on 20 July.

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He said that he and Richardson had met with the team from the Department of Natural Resources and chief natural resources officer Melissa Meade a few days prior.

Together, they reviewed the sector’s priorities and identified how the next phase of funding could be best used, Hodge said.

Over the coming weeks, the government will also consult with farmers and fishers to understand their priorities and ongoing challenges, and involve them in shaping how the investment is allocated.

“We want these resources to be directed where they will have the greatest impact and deliver lasting benefits to the sector,” Hodge said.

“Our goal remains clear – to continue strengthening Anguilla’s food security, reduce our dependence on imported food, support our farmers and fishers, and build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector for generations to come.”

‘Major achievements’

The natural resources minister told the press conference that the ECCB had previously awarded Anguilla $2.4m in grant funding around the same time in 2025.

“The first grant has enabled the government to make significant progress in strengthening agriculture, increasing domestic food production and improving the resilience of the sector,” he said.

Hodge said that among the major achievements were the successful importation of 18 sheep and goats under the livestock genetic improvement programme and the introduction of artificial insemination.

The government also procured 10 additional shade houses, bringing the total to 30, and invested in greenhouse materials to expand hydroponic systems and protected agriculture.

A comprehensive poultry development programme is in progress, while the first fruit orchard development programme has begun, with trees planted and plans to expand production to include citrus, guava, soursop, mango, starfruit and avocado.

Other initiatives included introducing farm data management systems, purchasing a walk-behind tractor to improve land preparation and farming efficiency, and acquiring an industrial agricultural shredder to improve agricultural waste management.

Wildlife population control measures were also implemented to reduce crop losses, protect agricultural production and improve yields for farmers, Hodge added.

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