FARMERS in Dartmouth village on the Essequibo Coast are celebrating a significant boost in agricultural production, thanks to the fulfilment of commitments made by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. Regional Chairperson of Region Two, Vilma DeSilva, commended the President for his swift action in addressing the farmers’ needs, particularly the clearing of 300 acres of dormant farmland for cultivation.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Da Silva highlighted the progress made since President Ali’s outreach to the region in December. Over 180 acres of land is already being used for red-bean production and additional acreage is being prepared to further expand cultivation efforts.

“These requests for land-clearing were made by the farmers during President Ali’s visit and he immediately instructed that 300 acres of land be cleared to assist Dartmouth farmers,” Da Silva explained. She also noted that a trasher was provided to reduce the labour required for the task.

Acknowledging the exceptional quality of red beans produced in the region, President Ali directed that farmers receive high-yielding bean varieties to strengthen their production capabilities. The initiative is expected to meet domestic demand and open opportunities for regional exports.
Support from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) has also been instrumental, as extension officers provide guidance to ensure that crops remain pest-free and healthy.

Da Silva praised Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha for his unwavering commitment to the farmers in Region Two and beyond. She emphasised his hands-on approach to addressing farmers’ concerns and providing essential tools and planting materials.

“Compared to where our region’s agriculture was before 2020 and where it is now, the progress is unmatched. Minister Mustapha has gone above and beyond to ensure that farmers are empowered and their needs are addressed,” she remarked.

For the first time in Guyana’s history, farmers in the Pomeroon area now have access to free drainage services to enhance productivity. Four new excavators are working daily to drain farmlands and dredge koker trenches and outfalls, facilitating a smoother return to cultivation.

Additionally, Minister Mustapha has distributed over 7,000 Green Dwarf coconuts to farmers and pledged to provide more high-yielding planting materials. New varieties of cocoa and coffee are also being developed to benefit farmers, their families and the country’s economy.

The government’s initiatives have not only revitalised agriculture in Dartmouth, but have also paved the way for sustainable growth across the region. With ongoing support and strategic interventions, Dartmouth farmers are well positioned to contribute significantly to Guyana’s agricultural sector and its export potential.

“This collaborative effort between the government and the farmers is a shining example of how investments in agriculture can transform communities and improve lives,” Da Silva concluded.