ENHANCING AGRICULTURE THROUGH DIGITAL INNOVATION: DOA AND FAO CONDUCT REGIONAL E-AGRICULTURE DRONE MAPPING AND GEOSPATIAL ANALYSIS TRAINING IN ST. KITTS AND NEVIS

(MOA Basseterre, St. Kitts, 28 March 2025):

The Department of Agriculture (DOA) in St. Kitts, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), is currently conducting an intensive 12-week training program under the “Regional E-Agriculture” project, with a special focus on Drone Mapping and Geospatial analysis tools. This initiative is designed to bolster the capacity of the agriculture sector in the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis by integrating digital agricultural solutions and cutting-edge technological training.

The training, which began on January 29 and runs until April 03, 2025, is providing participants with hands-on experience in drone flight operations, practical insights into data collection, mapping techniques, and the integration of drone technology into modern farming practices.

Recognizing the transformative potential of these tools, the DOA has engaged Dr. Kim Baldwin, Founder & Director, Marine Spatial Information Solutions (MarSIS), to facilitate the training on drone operations and environmental mapping. Dr. Baldwin, a renowned expert in geospatial applications, used the opportunity to equip participants with the skills needed to utilize drones for precision agriculture and land management.

She said, “I’m thrilled to lead this transformative FAO project together with the St. Kitts and Nevis Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources. Over the next few months, we’ll establish a commercial ‘Drone Unit’ and provide extensive training using drone technologies and geospatial analysis tools to enhance data-driven decision-making nationwide.  At the core of the FAO project lies my ‘Participatory-UAS’ approach, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to equip stakeholders with the skills to revolutionize agricultural and marine resource management and build a resilient future in St. Kitts & Nevis!”

With her extensive expertise in commercial Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), Dr. Baldwin expressed that the project’s expected output includes the development of a commercial UAS Policy and Standard Operating Procedures Manual, including training to operationalize a UAS drone unit and support for team members in the planning and development of national monitoring strategies.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Acting Director at the Department of Agriculture, Yushaner Jeffers said, “This project aligns with the government’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development and the integration of innovative technologies to improve food security and environmental management.” Staff from the Department of Agriculture on Nevis, the Department of Physical Planning, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) are also participating in the training.

By embracing digital innovation, the DOA and FAO also seek to empower local farmers, agribusiness professionals, and agricultural stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance productivity and sustainability. 

As the Regional E-Agriculture project continues, it is expected to foster a more resilient and technologically adept agricultural community, positioning St. Kitts and Nevis at the forefront of digital agricultural transformation in the Caribbean.

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