– rejects Opposition Leader’s claims

THE Ministry of Agriculture has rejected claims by Opposition Leader Mohamed Azruddin that the Abary Creek Drainage and Irrigation (D&I) Project could threaten the livelihoods of rice and cattle farmers, saying the project is intended to expand agricultural production and strengthen water-management infrastructure.
The ministry said the project is supported by a feasibility assessment which projects improved drainage and irrigation access for approximately 55,282 acres stretching from Mahaica to Abary, with an estimated 300 farmers in the Abary area expected to benefit directly.
According to the ministry, the project forms part of the Government’s wider programme to modernise Guyana’s D&I infrastructure and bring additional areas into agricultural production.
The works include the construction of high-level embankments, internal drainage and collector canals, a high-level canal, bridges, culverts, and high-level and regular sluices.
The ministry said the infrastructure is designed to improve water management, strengthen resilience to flooding and other climate-related challenges, and increase productive capacity for farmers.
The feasibility assessment estimates that the project could generate a net annual economic benefit of more than $1.595 billion in Region Five and more than $3.85 billion across Regions Three and Six.
The ministry said the projected benefits include increased agricultural production, improved resilience and stronger economic opportunities for farming communities.
It also rejected suggestions that the Government is proceeding without regard for affected landowners and occupiers.
According to the ministry, consultations and negotiations with affected persons have been ongoing since April 2022, with the most recent engagement held on September 21, 2026.
The ministry said the works are being undertaken as public works in accordance with the applicable legal framework, adding that consultations will continue as the project advances.
It maintained that the ongoing engagement demonstrates that affected stakeholders are being consulted while the Government pursues the long-term development of the agricultural sector.
The ministry also pointed to investments in drainage and irrigation, agricultural infrastructure, production, climate resilience and farmer support since 2020, describing agriculture as a key component of Guyana’s development strategy.
It said the sector remains important to employment, rural communities, food security and economic growth.
The Ministry of Agriculture said it would continue implementing projects aimed at expanding agricultural opportunities and improving the conditions under which farmers operate, while maintaining that the Abary Creek project is intended to benefit, rather than undermine, farming communities.