PRIME MINISTER DREW UNDERSCORES REAP AS CRITICAL INVESTMENT IN FOOD SECURITY AND NATIONAL RESILIENCE
Basseterre, Saint Kitts, March 17, 2026 (SKNIS): Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, has reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to safeguarding farmers and fisherfolk with the launch of the Regional Economical Agri-Insurance Programme (REAP), describing it as a vital step toward building a sustainable island state.
Speaking at the official launch ceremony on March 17, 2026, at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, Prime Minister Drew emphasised that the programme is designed to reduce the risks long faced by those in the agricultural and fisheries sectors.
“A facility like this is to guarantee our registered farmers and fisherfolk the support they deserve,” the Prime Minister stated. “There are risks, but we are deliberately working to de-risk agriculture by offering this programme—so our people can have peace of mind, continue to practice their craft, and recover quickly in the event of disaster.”
Dr. Drew highlighted the harsh realities faced by farmers and fishers, noting that years of investment—often amounting to tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars—can be wiped out by a single extreme weather event lasting less than 24 hours.
“Imagine investing your time, energy, and finances over five years, only to have it destroyed overnight, with no guarantee of compensation,” he said. “The psychological trauma, the loss of hope, the financial strain, and the impact on families are real. This programme is about addressing those realities.”
The prime minister stressed that REAP goes beyond individual protection, contributing to community stability, economic growth, and national development.
“This initiative is not just about the individual farmer or fisher. It is about strengthening communities, supporting the broader economy, and advancing our vision of a sustainable island state,” he explained. “No country can be truly sustainable without food security, and food security must be treated as a central pillar of our national development.”
Dr. Drew further noted that the government’s investment in REAP reflects a deliberate effort to elevate agriculture from a secondary activity to a core component of the economy.
“Agriculture must no longer be seen as an afterthought. This is a significant investment, carefully developed over many hours of planning and collaboration. It signals clearly that agriculture is central to our future, and those who work in this sector must be treated with the respect they deserve,” he said.
He also outlined the broader economic benefits of strengthening local food production, including reduced food imports, increased employment, and expanded economic activity across related sectors.
The prime minister added that when farmers feel secure, they are more likely to invest, increase production, and create additional opportunities, noting that higher output reduces reliance on imports, generates jobs, and supports stronger economic growth, which underscores the importance of the investment.
Describing REAP as a groundbreaking initiative for the Federation, Dr. Drew encouraged farmers and fishers to fully embrace the programme.
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