The Ministry of Agriculture has officially launched Agriculture Month 2025 under the theme “Transforming livelihoods through Agri-food systems,” unveiling a range of activities and initiatives aimed at modernizing and diversifying Guyana’s agricultural sector.
At the launch, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha highlighted the sector’s central role in national development, citing a record G$104.6 billion budget allocation for agriculture this year. He said the funding supports projects that meet domestic demand while positioning Guyana as the “breadbasket of the Caribbean.”
“For the first time in our country’s history, we are producing corn and soya, and I’m hoping by next year, we can be self-sufficient in producing all our needs to reduce the import bill of corn by US$40 million,” Minister Mustapha said. He noted that achieving this milestone would strengthen livestock feed supply, reduce foreign dependence, and create new agribusiness opportunities.
The Minister also highlighted emerging ventures in hydroponics and aquaculture, pointing to successful pilots in prawn production and a surge in black shrimp output—from about 10,000 kilograms monthly to nearly 120,000 kilograms. He said these initiatives demonstrate how diversification can generate employment for young people while expanding export potential.
Infrastructure development is another priority. Minister Mustapha outlined significant works across Regions Five and Six, including new pump stations, canals, and drainage and irrigation systems to reduce flooding and enhance resilience against climate challenges.
Minister within the Ministry, Vikash Ramkissoon, noted agriculture’s historic importance in Guyana, with rice and sugar long serving as pillars of the economy. FAO Representative Gillian Smith praised Guyana’s commitment to innovation and resilience, describing agriculture as “the backbone of rural livelihoods and a driver of innovation worldwide.”
Stakeholders welcomed the focus on modernization but emphasized the need for inclusive growth that benefits small-scale farmers alongside commercial operators. Agriculture Month 2025 is expected to showcase Guyana’s potential to achieve food sovereignty and strengthen its leadership in regional agri-food systems.
