Basseterre, St. Kitts, 17th March 2026 — The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially launched the REAP (Risk Exposure and Adaptation Protection) St. Kitts and Nevis Insurance Programme, marking a transformative step in strengthening the resilience and sustainability of the Federation’s agriculture and fisheries sectors.
Speaking at the official launch ceremony held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, the Honourable Samal Duggins, described the initiative as a “turning point” for the nation’s food producers.
“For decades, our farmers and fishers were asked to take on significant risk with limited protection. Today, that reality changes,” Minister Duggins stated. “REAP ensures that when disaster strikes, there is a system already in place — structured, responsive, and ready.”
The REAP Programme introduces a multi-peril parametric insurance system tailored to the Caribbean context, covering crops, livestock, and fisherfolk. Using real-time data, satellite monitoring, and predefined triggers, the programme enables rapid payouts within weeks, significantly reducing recovery time following adverse events.
Minister Duggins emphasized that the initiative is designed not only to protect livelihoods but also to strengthen the economic viability of the sector.
“Speed is the difference between recovery and collapse,” he noted. “By ensuring timely support, REAP allows farmers to replant, rebuild, and continue production without prolonged disruption.”
The Government has committed to supporting the programme through premium coverage and structured access, ensuring that participation is inclusive and not limited by financial barriers.
In addition to improving resilience, the programme is expected to enhance access to financing within the agricultural sector, positioning farmers as more secure and bankable participants in the economy.
“REAP is not just about protection,” Minister Duggins added. “It is about transforming agriculture into a more stable, investable, and sustainable enterprise.”
The Minister also extended appreciation to the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the REAP team and partners, the Ministry’s staff, and the nation’s farmers and fishers whose experiences helped shape the initiative.
The launch of REAP forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to advancing food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development in St. Kitts and Nevis.
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rnment Launches REAP Insurance Programme to Protect Farmers and Fishers
