GUYANA’S future in food security is bright, with significant investments being made to expand agricultural production, strengthen food systems and reduce the country’s dependence on imported commodities.
This was the message from Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, during the observance of World Food Day 2026 at Lake Mainstay, Region Two, on Friday, October 16, under the theme “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow.”
The event, hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), brought together farmers, exhibitors, representatives of agricultural agencies, government officials and members of the Indigenous community to celebrate Guyana’s agricultural achievements and highlight opportunities for further development.
Minister Mustapha said World Food Day provides an important opportunity for countries to reflect on the importance of ensuring that every person has access to safe, affordable and nutritious food.
He noted that food security cannot be taken for granted, particularly as countries worldwide continue to grapple with climate change, rising production costs and uncertainties in international markets.
The minister said Guyana’s observance was not merely a celebration, but also an opportunity to reflect on the investments being made to strengthen the country’s agricultural sector and build a more resilient food system for future generations.
He pointed to the country’s progress in reducing its reliance on imported agricultural commodities, highlighting developments in corn and soybean production.
Mustapha said Guyana previously imported corn and soybeans but has since begun producing these commodities locally, with the country working towards self-sufficiency and the potential to generate approximately US$40 million in annual revenue from the sector.
He emphasised that innovation, stronger partnerships and sustained investment would be critical to ensuring that the country continues to advance its food production agenda.
Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Vikash Ramkissoon, said the government remains committed to ensuring that Guyana becomes a food-secure nation, while working towards achieving the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) regional food production targets.
He also highlighted the opportunities being created for young people and women to participate in agriculture, noting that their involvement is important to the sector’s continued growth and sustainability.
Meanwhile, FAO Country Representative, Julian Smith, said hunger is not inevitable, noting that the world has the capacity to produce enough food to feed its population.
She stressed that innovation must translate into improved livelihoods and more productive agricultural systems, with no one being left behind.
Smith also underscored the importance of investing in research and development, strengthening partnerships and creating an enabling environment for farmers and other stakeholders to expand production.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan called on farmers to continue contributing to the development of agriculture, noting that Region Two continues to make progress across several sectors.
He encouraged farmers to remain active in the sector and contribute to strengthening local production and the region’s role in national food security.
Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, Marsha Williams, expressed pleasure that the Indigenous village was selected to host the national observance of World Food Day 2026.
Williams highlighted the community’s contribution to agriculture, noting that farmers continue to supply the market with pineapples and other locally produced commodities.
She said the event provided an opportunity to recognise the contributions of Indigenous communities and showcase the important role they play in Guyana’s agricultural development.
The programme also featured a segment highlighting women in agriculture, along with farmers’ exhibitions and competitions, live cooking demonstrations, local cuisine and displays by agencies under the Ministry of Agriculture.
The celebration served as a reminder of the importance of supporting farmers, embracing innovation and investing in sustainable food production to ensure that Guyana continues to strengthen its food security for generations to come.
