IN a significant boost to Guyana’s apiculture industry, more than sixty new and existing beekeepers from Regions Four, Five, and Six received apiculture starter kits on Wednesday from Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha. This distribution forms part of a broader $120 million investment aimed at strengthening honey production and fostering sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative is in line with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s national agricultural diversification strategy, which seeks to transform apiculture into a commercially viable and income-generating industry capable of serving both domestic and regional markets.

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony, Minister Mustapha emphasised that while beekeeping has existed in Guyana for decades, the sector has been historically underutilised. He said the current administration, since taking office in 2020, has prioritised the revitalisation of underdeveloped agricultural sectors like apiculture.
“Our goal is to provide the support necessary to transform apiculture into a real economic opportunity for families and communities. The time is now for beekeepers to scale up and meet the growing demand for local honey,” Minister Mustapha stated.

Recipients of the initiative were provided with fully equipped starter kits to support the establishment of apiaries. Additional resources, such as honey extractors, will be distributed following a validation process to ensure proper setup and functionality.

In addition, the programme is expected to expand into hinterland communities and other administrative regions over the coming months to create more equitable access to the apiculture value chain.
To complement this investment, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) is preparing to roll out a national training programme in apiculture. This initiative will focus on long-term capacity building, knowledge transfer, and improved management practices within the honey industry.

The move marks a significant step in supporting micro-enterprises and rural development while enhancing Guyana’s position as a player in the regional honey market.