AGRICULTURE Month was officially launched yesterday at the Ministry of Agriculture by Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, under the theme “Linking the Caribbean for Regional Food and Nutrition Security and Rural Development”.

In observing Agriculture Month, Guyana is joining with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to celebrate World Food Day on October 16 and the 12th Caribbean Week of Agriculture, beginning October 6.

Minister Ramsammy highlighted that over the years Guyana has hosted Agriculture Month. It has been successful and it has not only touched the lives of Guyanese, but persons around the world.
“Guyana is known for its agriculture. We have historical impacts on people around the world. The best known products in Guyana are in fact our agricultural products and it is not a new thing. What is new about the impact we have made is that in some areas we are improving our products and in some areas we are adding new products”, pointed out Minister Ramsammy.
He added that the ministry will reaffirm the commitment and belief that Guyana will be known for many more things than just sugar, rum and rice. More products will be added so as to produce more in the country for the people. Most of the products that Guyana has been importing are now produced locally, such as broccoli and corn. Guyana has also been exporting more fruits and vegetables than before.
According to Minister Ramsammy, Guyana is known for being a food secure nation and is working to ensure that the country produce higher quality agriculture products that are more nutritious.

“This year, on World Food Day, we note that the agriculture sector works closely with the Ministries of Health and Education to keep our children healthy, keep our people healthy”, he added.
The ministry has been looking at systems that support from the farm to the table, and this year persons from the University of the West Indies, among persons from other countries, are coming to work with the ministry.
During the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, the ministry will also be signing a number of agreements. Highlighting that the Jagdeo Initiative will be continued, the minister stressed that the Caribbean needs to know about this flagship programme.
World Food Day will be hosted at Mon Repos with the celebration of a Cassava Festival.