The current weather conditions which are being experienced in Guyana and other South American countries are testimony to the scientific data proving that climate change is upon us and mitigation measures must be implemented.

The current El Nino conditions and the recent spring tide must not be seen as coincidental; these are natural occurrences that will continue as climate change continues to take its toll should it remain unabated.

I recently noticed that the government through the Ministry of Agriculture has boosted its El Nino response to support farming communities along the coastland and hinterland communities. This is most welcome and more needs to be done as the effects of the current dry conditions can be devastating and can affect our agricultural production and exports if the current efforts are not sustained.

The proper management of scare water resources must be maintained to ensure our farmers have the necessary means to continue tilling the soil and providing affordable food on our tables. Too much of water for farmers means flooding and lack of water can result in reduced planting and sometimes also complete loss of crop. However, the Ministry of Agriculture has responded favourably by deploying its resources and technical support to farming communities to minimise the effects of the prevailing dry conditions.

Concurrently, farmers and other users of water have a moral responsibly to use water wisely and to avoid wastage. Conserving water is a top priority and all should support the relevant authorities in this national effort since all could be adversely affected.

In addition, the recent distribution of irrigation tubes to farmers by the Ministry of Agriculture is a well thought out initiative to assist farmers to help themselves to access irrigation water to cultivate their lands, despite the prevailing dry conditions, and at the same time conserve and recycle irrigation water.

Farmers need water to plant to provide food for all Guyanese and further afield, so let’s do our bit as citizens of Guyana to support the national effort to help each other to ensure Guyana move forward.
Terence William