Antiguan Michael Joseph is CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year
Published on October 7, 2025
Michael Joseph, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture Forum for Youth (ABAFY) has been named CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year 2025, earning recognition for his innovative approach to agriculture that includes spray drone technology, water-saving techniques, and natural farming methods.
The award was presented during the opening ceremony of the 19th Caribbean Week of Agriculture in St Kitts and Nevis on Monday, where Joseph’s story of walking four miles daily to his farm and starting with recycled plastic bottles for irrigation resonated with regional leaders focused on transforming Caribbean food systems.
Joseph operates just over one-and-a-half acres using no-till methods and sustainable practices that enable him to produce twice the average yield per acre compared to traditional farms.
Micheal Joseph with OECS Director General Dr.Didacus Jules
His operation includes two spray drones that reduce labour, water, and chemical use by over 50 percent while increasing coverage and yield.
“I started with nothing,” Joseph said in his acceptance remarks. “Today, I provide drone services to over 20 farmers across the island.”
Joseph’s techniques include using water-storing crystals that cut water consumption in half while keeping crops productive during dry spells and practicing Korean-styled natural farming techniques to revitalize soil and strengthen plant health.
He also creates USDA-approved natural insecticides and fungicides using local materials to avoid synthetic chemicals.
Beyond his own farm, Joseph operates a tractor and excavator to support other farmers with land preparation and clearing.
Source Antigua Observer
