Farmers and agricultural officials in Antigua and Barbuda are stepping into a new era of precision agriculture, thanks to the introduction of high-tech soil scanners and comprehensive training provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This initiative, which took a significant leap forward on May 7, 2025, is set to transform how soil health and fertiliser use are managed in the twin-island nation.
The FAO recently donated two portable soil scanners and accompanying software to the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, and Fisheries. These advanced devices are equipped with infrared sensors that measure crucial soil properties such as organic matter, pH levels, Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), and concentrations of essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. The scanners are lightweight, wireless, and transmit results directly to a mobile app, enabling multiple scans and instant data analysis each day.
To ensure that this technology is effectively utilized, the FAO hosted a hands-on training session at Indies Greens in Sea View Farm. The workshop was led by FAO representatives Melvin Medina Navarro, Plant Production and Protection Officer, and Rontia Crichlow, Plant Production and Protection Assistant. The session saw participation from 21 individuals, including Ministry of Agriculture officials and local farmers, who were trained to use the scanners to assess key soil health indicators in real time.
The implications of this initiative are far-reaching. Agricultural extension officers can now provide farmers with more accurate, science-based guidance to improve soil fertility and increase crop yields. This advancement is particularly timely given the ongoing challenges faced by the local agricultural sector, including land degradation, nutrient depletion, inconsistent rainfall, and pest and disease outbreaks.
Jahmel Ralph, Operations Manager at the Cades Bay Pineapple Station, who attended the training, expressed enthusiasm about the new technology. “This is a positive step towards improving fertiliser recommendations for farmers,” he said. The initiative is part of the FAO’s broader “Digital Solutions to Improve Horticultural Crop Management” project, which aims to enhance water and crop management, as well as pest and disease control through digital tools.
Melvin Medina Navarro emphasized the FAO’s commitment to supporting the Ministry of Agriculture. “FAO is committed to supporting the Ministry of Agriculture by promoting the use of the digital soil scanners,” he said. “The scanners will provide extension services with the necessary information and resources to make data-driven decisions that will revolutionise agricultural practices and enhance the livelihoods of farmers.”
This initiative not only equips farmers with the tools they need to make informed decisions but also represents a significant step towards modernizing agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda. By leveraging technology, the agricultural sector can overcome traditional challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable and productive future.