– 13,000 Brazilian green dwarf coconut seed nuts en route to Hope Coconut Estate

IN a groundbreaking revelation, the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, shared exclusive details with the Guyana Chronicle, disclosing that 13,000 high-yielding Brazilian green dwarf coconut seed nuts, valued at approximately GUY$13 million, are currently en route to the Hope Coconut Estate on the East Coast of Demerara. The move underscores Guyana’s strategic focus on further developing its coconut industry, already recognised as one of the most lucrative crops in the agricultural sector.

Minister Mustapha highlighted the remarkable growth in coconut cultivation, stating that, over the last three years, Guyana has increased coconut cultivation by over five thousand acres. He emphasised the government’s commitment to making coconut one of the largest crops in the country, citing its global popularity due to health benefits and versatile applications.
The Minister also revealed that two experts from India recently conducted a study on Guyana’s coconut industry, with a report currently in the works. Mustapha expressed optimism about expanding the coconut industry and acknowledged ongoing efforts to achieve this goal.

Minister Mustapha emphasised the government’s significant investment in building nurseries across the country to support the expansion of the coconut industry. He stated, “In almost all the regions throughout Guyana, we are investing in building nurseries, with the exception of regions seven and eight, where they don’t have any nurseries established.”

He lauded the farmers’ active participation and receptiveness to the industry’s growth, highlighting plans to expand the coconut industry by an additional 1500 acres by the end of the year.
Mustapha outlined initiatives to educate farmers on value-added products, including the use of coconut fiber and shells. He expressed satisfaction that Guyana is utilising the entire value-added chain for coconuts, going beyond traditional products like coconut water and oil.

Addressing the Venezuela/Guyana controversy, Minister Mustapha reassured the public that it has not hindered progress in the agriculture sector or the nation’s economy. He emphasised the directive from President Ali to continue pursuing activities in all sectors, expressing optimism about meeting economic growth targets.
Minister Mustapha encouraged farmers to capitalise on foreign markets, including the Caribbean, North America, and Europe, emphasising the potential for Guyana’s coconut products on the international stage. The Minister’s ambitious plans and commitment underscore Guyana’s determination to make significant strides in the coconut industry, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.