Dear Editor,

SINCE returning to office in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration has brought substantial improvements to Guyana’s fishing sector, revitalising an industry that had seen stagnation and neglect under the previous APNU+AFC government.

Under the PPP/C, fisherfolk across the country have benefitted from targetted support, including a $150,000 cash grant distributed to over 5,000 fisherfolk in 2022 as part of the government’s COVID-19 relief and economic recovery plan. This direct intervention provided critical assistance to a community hit hard by global fuel prices and disrupted markets.

In addition, the administration has prioritised improved infrastructure, including rehabilitating fishing wharves and upgrading access roads to key fishing areas, making the sector more efficient and sustainable.

Moreover, the PPP/C has been actively working to strengthen regulatory frameworks and introduce sustainable fishing practices. Collaborations with international partners have been enhanced to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, safeguarding local fisherfolk’s livelihoods and marine biodiversity. Training programmes and access to low-interest financing have also been rolled out to modernise fleets and boost productivity.

In stark contrast, the APNU+AFC administration failed to offer any meaningful development for the sector during their time in office. Fisherfolk were left to struggle with high fuel costs, declining catches and inadequate facilities. There was no comprehensive plan, no targetted relief and no infrastructural investments that benefitted the fishing communities.

The PPP/C’s results-driven approach has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development and sustainable economic growth. Fisherfolk, once sidelined and ignored, are now seeing tangible benefits from a government that recognises their value and contributions to the national economy.

Sincerely,
Fawaz Harry