THE revival of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) under the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration is a commendable effort to restore an industry that has suffered greatly due to past mismanagement.

The previous APNU+AFC government’s decision to close several sugar estates not only devastated the economy but also left thousands of workers without livelihoods, effectively dismantling a cornerstone of Guyana’s agricultural sector.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent pronouncement that “heads will roll” if production targets are not met, signals a serious commitment to accountability within GuySuCo. However, it also raises critical questions about the effectiveness of management and the strategies employed to bring this vital industry back to life.

The challenges facing GuySuCo are immense, stemming from years of neglect and mismanagement. The PPP/C government has made strides in restoring the physical infrastructure of sugar estates, yet the President rightly points out that the industry must be viewed through a broader economic lens.

Sugar is not merely a commodity; it is a vital source of employment and community stability. The historical reliance on sugar as a major revenue generator underscores its importance in national development.

Dr. Ali’s acknowledgment of the dilapidated state of sugar fields and factories upon taking office in 2020 illustrates the monumental task that they faced. The government’s investment plan aimed at enhancing efficiency is a positive step, yet it must be accompanied by a cultural shift within the industry.

A “winning culture,” as described by the President, is essential for fostering productivity and instilling a sense of ownership among workers. This cultural transformation will require not only investment in modern equipment but also training and development programmes that empower workers and instill pride in their roles.

Moreover, while international support is crucial for addressing immediate infrastructural needs, it is imperative that GuySuCo develops robust internal mechanisms for accountability and performance evaluation.

The warning from President Ali serves as a crucial reminder that complacency will not be tolerated; however, it must be matched with clear benchmarks and transparent reporting to ensure that all stakeholders are aligned in their goals.

As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, it is essential for the government to balance ambition with pragmatism. The revival of GuySuCo should not merely aim at restoring production levels but should also focus on creating a resilient industry capable of adapting to market demands and global trends.

This includes exploring diversification into value-added products and sustainable practices that could enhance profitability while safeguarding local communities.

The stakes are high, and as President Ali has indicated, there is no room for failure. It is time for all involved to rise to the occasion and ensure that GuySuCo not only survives but thrives as a beacon of hope for the nation’s agricultural future.