PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali has called on the youths of Region Two to explore the wealth of opportunities available in the agriculture sector.
He made this appeal during a public meeting held at the Anna Regina Secondary School on Saturday, where he engaged with rice farmers, cash crop cultivators, and fisherfolk.
The President emphasised that agriculture should not be seen merely as a fallback option, but rather as a thriving and profitable industry with immense potential.

He urged young people to view agriculture as a sustainable and rewarding career path, highlighting his government’s continued efforts to build a supportive ecosystem for youth involvement in the sector.
“We want young people to trust that this government is committed to making agriculture viable. It is not just about surviving in the sector, but thriving,” President Ali said.

He outlined several measures and policies aimed at enhancing the sector’s viability. Among them are plans to open more lands for cultivation, reduce input costs and support farmers in owning their own equipment.
He also pledged continued investment in essential infrastructure and financial support for farmers.

“This government will continue to give grants and support education, our elders and most importantly, we are focusing on economic transformation—putting more money in your pockets, lowering your input costs, and backing agriculture,” he stressed.

resident Ali further announced the construction of all-weather roads to replace the current dam systems, significantly improving transportation and accessibility for farming communities.
To improve financial access, the government plans to introduce a co-investment fund and push for reduced interest rates through tax incentives, similar to what has already been achieved in the housing sector.
“It will happen in agriculture too,” the President assured.

Calling on young people to show genuine interest in the sector, President Ali underscored that agriculture offers both additional income and long-term stability.
He noted that this is not a one-off initiative but part of a wider plan to develop small agri-industries, such as aquaculture ponds and shade house farming.
“Resources are available, and this government will continue to provide support,” he reiterated.

The President also stated that Essequibo is poised to become the breadbasket for both agriculture and tourism, revealing that three new cold storage facilities will soon be established in the region to support cash crop farmers.

Additionally, Region Two benefits from the presence of a branch of the Guyana School of Agriculture, which offers residents the opportunity to pursue formal training and realise their dreams in agriculture.