-No. 2/3 GAPA group receives boat engine
FARMERS of the No. 2/3 Guyana Agricultural Producers Association (GAPA) group in West Coast Berbice, on Monday, received a five horsepower engine from Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud as a fulfillment to a promise made during a recent meeting in the village.
Minister Persaud, while handing over the item at his Ministry’s Regent and Vlissengen Road office, said the initiative will bring tremendous relief to farmers since it will aid in the easy transport of their produce.
He alluded to the fact that Government has been working with farmers countrywide over the years and will continue to do so in an effort to encourage agriculture and to boost productivity.
The Agriculture Minister also used the opportunity to encourage the Chairman of the group to exercise due care of the item since it plays a major role in their daily economic activities.
Chairman of the group, Nazirali Ali thanked the Agriculture Minister for the gesture since it will play a key part in their income.
“I would like to thank the Minister for us being able to acquire this (horsepower engine) through the Ministry of Agriculture. This initiative will be a great source of income for everyone because, due to the inclement weather, it was easier to transport this way,” Ali said.
The group currently cultivates watermelons and as such they were also provided with seeds.
Recognising the implications of the effects of climate change, the initiative stemmed from a recent meeting on the West Coast of Demerara. It is part of Government’s effort to bring the widest range of assistance possible to farmers.
It also demonstrates the commitment made by Government in partnership with farmers in expanding progress in the sector.  (GINA)