Hailing from Windy Hill, Buffonge’s passion for his ministry originated in his rural upbringing. His Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) faith and Christian values have guided him throughout his journey, further enriched by his military service during the volcanic crisis. This period instilled in him a profound love for his country and reinforced his commitment to national service, supporting the lives and livelihoods of the people of Montserrat.
Buffonge’s decision to join the Movement for Change and Prosperity (MCAP) was strategic. Initially running as an independent candidate, he recognized the limitations of this path and sought a more structured platform to enact meaningful change. MCAP’s rich history and adherence to a constitution provided the framework necessary to drive his vision for Montserrat forward. MCAP’s commitment to fostering Montserrat’s development with its people at the heart resonated deeply with his principles. His familiarity with MCAP’s members and mutual respect for their dedication to public service further solidified his decision to join the party. Through this alliance, he found a platform for his aspirations and a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to realising Montserrat’s full potential.
Buffonge’s professional journey is marked by a profound passion for agriculture, a field in which he is largely self-taught. His dedication and expertise were recognized early on when he secured the title of Young Farmer of the Year, a testament to his commitment and innovative approach to farming. Under Buffonge’s leadership, Montserrat has seen a remarkable transformation in its agricultural landscape. He spearheaded initiatives that have significantly enhanced the island’s self-sufficiency in key produce, reducing imports of white potatoes, lettuce, plantains, and other essential crops.
Recognizing the critical role of water in agricultural sustainability, he implemented a water subsidy program benefiting commercial farmers, easing their financial burden and ensuring essential resource availability. Buffonge increased agricultural production by introducing the Plant Factory Indoor Farming (PFIF) technique to mass-produce plantains and utilising tissue culture from St. Vincent and the Grenadines to produce over 3,000 pineapple slips and more than 1,000 avocado slips. His efforts also led to increased yam production and the reintroduction of white potato cultivation. Additionally, he introduced new fruit varieties, including dragon fruit and various types of citrus, and partnered with private sector individuals to establish new farms, such as the SDA Church farm in Delvins.
Beyond agriculture, Buffonge has played a pivotal role in fostering economic development and infrastructure enhancement. His initiatives include creating a new boatyard and relocating fishing vessels, strengthening the island’s maritime industry, and providing vital support to local fishermen. He signed on to the Blue Belt and Blue Justice initiatives, reinforcing his commitment to sustainable marine and coastal management. He also reinstated the CRIF insurance for farmers, extending its coverage to include extensive damage from rainfall.
Buffonge successfully secured approximately $3 million for the upgrade, maintenance, and construction of social housing, demonstrating his commitment to improving living standards for residents. He ensured that $335,000, which had sat dormant for five years, was spent on repairing and rehabilitating social homes. His professional accomplishments are a testament to his visionary leadership, dedication, and advocacy for Montserrat’s agricultural, environmental, and economic landscapes.
Buffonge’s policy objectives include creating a sustainable agricultural framework that ensures food security while protecting the environment, significantly increasing food production, fostering the growth of agro-processing industries, expanding the Montserrat fishing zone, reducing dependency on imports, and elevating farming as a reputable career choice. He also aims to transform housing initiatives into dynamic economic drivers, enhance access to affordable housing, and invest in residences for the people of Montserrat, thereby elevating living standards across the island.
Vote for Crenston C. Buffonge—the name you know and trust, a man of the people, for the people.