Dear Editor,
RECENTLY, the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, along with his team, visited various locations in Berbice to engage with residents and farmers.

This is not a new occurrence, as the minister has been actively visiting since taking office. Over the past three years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of young individuals eager to participate in the agricultural sector.

During a meeting held in Sandvoort Village, West Canje Berbice, several young farmers expressed their admiration for the minister and his team, as they have been a source of inspiration for them to pursue agriculture.

It was particularly encouraging to witness Minister Mustapha’s prompt offer of support. While criticism is inevitable, it would be unjust to claim that the government is not prioritising the involvement of youths in agriculture. The minister’s objective is crystal clear – to transform Guyana into the “bread basket of the region.”

He emphasised that the government will continue to enhance the livelihoods of its citizens. I firmly believe that by equipping individuals with the necessary skills and providing opportunities to those who are willing to seize them, this vision will undoubtedly become a reality. There is a well-known saying, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”

This is precisely what the current government is doing, leaving it up to us to decide whether we want immediate sustenance or the ability to sustain ourselves in the long run.

Yours sincerely,
Malisa Harry