WITH food security remaining a top priority on CARICOM’S agenda, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has highlighted the substantial investments being made in Region Two’s infrastructure to enhance agricultural productivity.

Speaking at Saturday’s commissioning of the pump station at Andrews, Minister Mustapha revealed that billions of dollars have been spent on improving drainage systems in the Pomeroon River to support cash crop farmers.

He emphasised that President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s visit to the Pomeroon River spurred immediate government intervention, allocating $500 million to dredge the river’s mouth. “Many farmers are now experiencing improved drainage due to these significant investments,” he stated.

Highlighting the importance of diversified agriculture, Minister Mustapha noted that the ministry was working with Pomeroon residents to expand cocoa and coffee cultivation and has distributed over 4,000 high-yield coconut plants.

He added that more than 6,000 acres of coconut cultivation have been established over the past four years, reflecting the government’s commitment to revitalising the sector.

Minister Mustapha also celebrated historic achievements in rice production, announcing that, for the first time, output reached a record-breaking 725,000 tonnes.

“We are working to position Guyana as a leading agricultural hub. Our President is deeply passionate about the sector and is committed to ensuring agriculture remains resilient,” Mustapha said.

Plans are underway to cultivate 25,000 acres of corn and soya, aiming for self-sufficiency and if this happens, the country will save US$40 million annually.

Efforts to revitalise the sugar industry are also a priority, with systematic investments in GuySuCo over the past four years.

Minister Mustapha urged residents to seize the opportunities provided through these initiatives and to continue supporting the government’s vision for a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.

“We want to bring back the Pomeroon to surpass its former glory,” he said, emphasising the transformative potential of these investments.