ACCORDING to the 2024 Auditor General’s Report, the Government of Guyana invested more than $59 billion in key agricultural agencies last year to strengthen the country’s non-oil economy and ensure that critical institutions remain equipped to fulfil their mandates.
The report shows that $35.706 billion was provided as current subventions, while an additional $23.327 billion was disbursed as capital support to 11 statutory bodies.
The Auditor General’s report lists the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) among the largest recipients, with $19.525 billion in current funding and $13.034 billion in capital allocations during 2024.
NDIA is responsible for maintaining Guyana’s drainage and irrigation systems, which are crucial for controlling flooding, supporting rice production and safeguarding low-lying coastal communities.
As for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), it received $10.289 billion in current funding and $5.219 billion in capital support. GuySuCo remains one of the country’s largest employers and a major pillar in sustaining economic activity across sugar-dependent communities.
The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI)—Guyana’s lead agency for crop research, pest management and technical agricultural support—received $2.414 billion in current allocations and $2.205 billion in capital subventions.
The institute plays a central role in expanding non-traditional agriculture, improving yields, and supporting farmers across the country.
Other beneficiaries include the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA); the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (NGMC); the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA); Hope Coconut Industries Limited; the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the Food Safety Authority.
These agencies collectively support livestock production, rice exports, agro-processing, food testing, and farmer education, sectors that continue to anchor Guyana’s non-oil GDP.
The Auditor General noted that while some agencies must improve their timeliness in submitting financial statements and laying audit reports before the National Assembly, the Ministry of Agriculture acknowledged these findings and has initiated steps to address the gaps.
The multi-billion-dollar allocations highlighted in the AG’s report reflect the government’s continued push to strengthen agriculture, which remains essential for national food security, export diversification, and rural employment.
These agencies, according to the report, serve core national functions and remain critical to preserving stability and growth in Guyana’s non-oil economic sectors.