In a recent meeting with various agricultural stakeholders including cash-crop farmers, rice growers, and fisherfolk, President Dr. Irfaan Ali outlined a detailed vision for the future of agriculture in Guyana. He conveyed that his administration has developed a strategic framework aimed at enhancing the agricultural and related industries.
Addressing perceptions around the rice sector, President Ali encouraged the public to consider the core values driving the government’s decisions. He posed critical questions regarding trust and accountability in leadership, reaffirming that his government approaches agricultural challenges head-on rather than evading them.
Key aspects of the strategy include lowering essential input costs such as fuel, drainage, and land preparation. Notably, the government has not levied any taxes on fuel for the past five years, which supports rice production modernization efforts and aims to reduce spoilage through enhanced storage and drying facilities.
Productivity is a major focus, with plans to incorporate high-value crops within existing farms to diversify and minimize risk. President Ali also mentioned the establishment of a Special Development Fund, designed to co-invest with farmers, lower interest rates, and broaden the fiscal landscape for risk mitigation.
Furthermore, he highlighted the need for expanding market access by improving infrastructure and increasing resources for irrigation. Initiatives around better-quality seeds and cold-storage facilities were also emphasized to boost export viability. Finally, he proposed legislation to ensure that local agricultural products are prominently featured in supermarkets throughout Guyana.
Source: guyanachronicle.com
