–President Ali emphasises
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has called on farmers, fishers, agro-processors, private-sector partners and citizens to renew their collective commitment to food security, as Guyana joined the international community in observing World Food Day 2026 under the theme “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow,” on Friday.
In his message, the President said ensuring that every person has access to sufficient, safe, nutritious and affordable food is a shared responsibility. He stressed that this requires not only increased production, but resilient, inclusive and sustainable food systems that benefit every household and community.
“Food is more than a commodity; it is a fundamental human necessity,” the Head of State said.
President Ali pointed to measurable results from government’s investments in the sector. He cited the International Monetary Fund’s most recent report, which shows that Guyana’s agricultural sector has grown by an average of 10 percent annually since 2022. The sector accounts for 6 percent of national GDP and 20 percent of non-oil GDP.
The President said government intends to build on this progress by diversifying production across crops, livestock, fisheries, aquaculture and agro-processing, while strengthening traditional industries.
Farmers remain central to the transformation, the President said. Through the Guyana Development Bank, financing is available to help farmers and agro-processors invest in machinery, land preparation, improved seeds, livestock, irrigation, storage and modern technology.
By expanding production of rice, corn, soya, poultry and other priority commodities, and strengthening processing, packaging and cold-chain infrastructure, government aims to reduce import dependence, create livelihoods, and improve the availability and affordability of nutritious food.
The President said this year’s theme reinforces the vision of a productive, technology-driven and competitive agricultural sector. He added that Guyana is building an integrated agri-food economy that connects production with innovation, financing, storage, processing, transportation and marketing.
President Ali said Guyana’s national efforts also serve a wider regional purpose. Through CARICOM’s food-security agenda, including the 25 by 2030 initiative, Guyana is helping to reduce the Caribbean’s reliance on imported food.
He noted that stronger trade links, harmonised standards, improved transportation and regional investment will be essential to building a more integrated and resilient Caribbean food system.
Concluding his message, the President said that through innovation, investment and responsible stewardship of national resources, Guyana can build a modern agricultural sector that expands opportunity, strengthens livelihoods and ensures every family has access to safe, nutritious and affordable food.
