THE production of ginger in Guyana’s spices capital, Barima-Waini, has significantly increased owing to efforts being made by the National Agricultural Research and Extension

Institute (NAREI) to resuscitate this lucrative industry.
According to NAREI’s Research Scientist, Ramnarace Sukhna, between 2016 and 2018, increases in acreages have highlighted the relationship between the growing demand for this commodity and the farmers’ response. In 2016, there were 46 farmers cultivating 90 acres of land. Within two years, 14 more farmers commenced planting ginger and the acreages increased to 90.

The above figures represent data obtained by NAREI through collaboration with farmers in several communities such as Barima, Hossororo, Kachi-Kamo, Morwhanna, Lower Koriabo, St. Anslem, Kamwatta, and Aruau. However, Suhkna clarified that there may be more farmers involved in ginger production but are doing so in remote areas.
He related, that prior to the resuscitation project in 2008, ginger was already being produced in the region. The majority of the crop was exported to Georgetown with a portion reaching as far as Suriname. NAREI’s intervention resulted in more farmers dedicating lands for ginger production.

One farmer, who has taken up the mantle to produce ginger on a large scale, is Victor Oselmo. The 56-year-old farmer owns 45 acres of farmlands, of which five acres is dedicated to ginger production. The average ginger production per acre is 8,000 pounds. The remaining 40 acres are used to grow yam and corn in a riverine community; he grows ginger in Kumaka- close to the market.

Situating his ginger farm close to the market has proven financially beneficial. Oselmo has been able to reduce his cost of production by reducing transportation cost. Also, easy access from farm to market has allowed him to access large quantities for huskers, who travel to Kumaka in search of quality spices, particularly ginger.

Although Tuesday and Saturday are designated market days, Oselmo sells ginger and other crops daily at the Kumaka Market. There, he grasps the opportunity to sell his commodity to huskers. They often times pay $140 per pound for ginger. This price would fluctuate from time to time depending on the availability of ginger on the market. During peak season (between November and December) ginger attracts a price of $500 per pound.
Oselmo plans are to expand his cultivation, as well as introduce new crops such as turmeric and black pepper. The father of four has been utilising the technical support offered by NAREI’s Extension Officers to better his production. As such, he is confident that the spices industry will be a profitable one in Guyana.