By Indrawattie Natram
FARMERS, with the assistance of the Ministry of Agriculture, are expected to commence the cultivation of onions in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) next week as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to expand local food production and reduce the country’s dependence on imported onions.
Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha made the announcement on Tuesday during a meeting with prospective onion farmers held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).
According to Minister Mustapha, the ministry will initially collaborate with 36 small farmers who have expressed interest in participating in the cultivation programme.
He related that the initiative forms part of the government’s wider agricultural diversification agenda aimed at creating new income opportunities for farmers, while strengthening food security in Guyana.
The minister noted that preliminary soil testing is currently underway to determine the suitability of lands for onion cultivation, while technical officers from the ministry will continue to provide guidance and support to participating farmers throughout the process.
He emphasised that Guyana has the potential to produce onions on a much larger scale, and said the government is committed to investing in crops that can significantly reduce the country’s food-import bill.
“We want to ensure that more of the produce consumed locally is grown right here in Guyana. Onion production is one of the areas we are now focusing on as we continue diversifying the agriculture sector,” Minister Mustapha told farmers.
He further expressed satisfaction at launching the initiative in Region Two, noting that the region has strong agricultural potential and farmers are willing to embrace new opportunities.
Meanwhile, farmer Sahadeo Nandlall welcomed the move, describing it as a positive step for the farming community.
He said several farmers are prepared to dedicate portions of their lands for onion cultivation and are optimistic about the project’s success.
The onion-cultivation programme is expected to expand gradually once the pilot phase proves successful, with additional farmers likely to be included in the future.