MINISTER of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha has encouraged farmers on the Essequibo Coast to expand and diversify their agricultural operations, assuring them that the government will continue making significant investments to reduce production costs, improve market access, and create greater opportunities for growth across the agriculture sector.
He made this appeal to farmers on Saturday, during an engagement with farmers and residents at Anna Regina as part of the two-day Cabinet Outreach in Region Two led by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Addressing farmers, Minister Mustapha said the government remains committed to strengthening agriculture through sustained investments that directly benefit farmers and enhance national food production.
He noted that over the past five years, billions of dollars have been invested in critical areas including drainage and irrigation infrastructure, farm-to-market roads, agricultural extension services, and a range of support programmes aimed at increasing productivity and improving farmers’ livelihoods.
According to the minister, these investments have helped farmers overcome longstanding challenges while creating a stronger foundation for the continued growth of Guyana’s agriculture sector.
Minister Mustapha also emphasised the importance of attracting more young people to agriculture, describing generational renewal as essential for the long-term sustainability and modernisation of the industry.
He highlighted flagship initiatives such as the Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP) and President Ali’s Tunnel Ventilated Poultry Project, explaining that these programmes are providing young people with opportunities to engage in modern, technology-driven, large-scale farming.
The minister said the government’s vision is to build a resilient and competitive agriculture sector that not only strengthens food security but also creates employment, increases farmers’ incomes, and supports Guyana’s expanding economy.