BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — Minister of Cooperatives and Agriculture Samal Duggins on Friday (Jul. 3) joined the rest of St. Kitts and Nevis in recognising the vital role cooperatives play in promoting peace, strengthening communities and advancing food security.
The observance formed part of the 104th International Day of Cooperatives, celebrated under the theme "Cooperatives for a Peaceful World." In his message, Duggins said lasting peace is built not only through harmony, but also by creating opportunities for people to improve their lives.
He emphasized that peace is created when people can earn a living, support their families, participate in decision-making, and work together to improve their communities. "“It is created when people can earn a living, support their families, participate in decision-making, and work together to improve their communities. These are the very principles upon which cooperatives are founded. Here in St. Kitts and Nevis, cooperatives continue to demonstrate the power of collective action.”
Duggins highlighted the wide-ranging contributions of cooperatives across the Federation, noting their impact in agriculture, agro-processing, fisheries, savings and youth development.
He said these organisations are creating economic opportunities, strengthening livelihoods, enhancing food security and helping to build more resilient communities.
"I am particularly proud of the contributions being made by our agricultural and fisheries cooperatives, as well as our school-saving junior cooperative programme, which is helping to shape a new generation of responsible, entrepreneurial, and community-minded citizens. As we advance our vision of becoming a sustainable island state, cooperatives remain a vital partner in promoting shared prosperity, economic resilience, democratic participation, and community empowerment," he said
The minister added that as the Federation advances its vision of becoming a Sustainable Island State, cooperatives will remain essential partners in promoting shared prosperity, economic resilience, democratic participation and community empowerment.
Duggins also reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening the cooperative movement through modernisation, education and capacity building.
He said the ministry is also working toward introducing a new Cooperative Act that will position the sector for continued growth and long-term success.
While expressing gratitude to members of the movement, Duggins thanked cooperative members, volunteers, leaders and supporters for their continued service and dedication to nation-building.
"Together, let us continue to embrace the values of cooperation, solidarity, and shared responsibility as we build a stronger, more inclusive, and more peaceful St. Kitts and Nevis," he said.
