The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) has received about G$60 million in vehicles to boost its extension services and surveillance of the Carambola Fruit Fly (CFF).
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha handed over the fleet of five pickup trucks, six all-terrain vehicles and 12 motorcycles. They were procured under the Agricultural Infrastructure Development Programme, which is financed by the CARICOM Development Fund.
Mustapha said NAREI plays a critical role in modernising the agriculture sector through research, extension and technical support to farmers.
"NAREI is the premier research institution in this country. We have been ensuring that NAREI has the facilities and is well equipped to provide the necessary guidance and services as we advance our food security efforts," he said.

Food Security Push

He said strengthening institutions such as NAREI forms part of the Government's food-security agenda and its aim of making Guyana a major agricultural producer in the Caribbean.
"Our President, as you know, is placing a lot of emphasis on food security, not only at the local level, but also at the regional level. We want Guyana to be the premier food producer in CARICOM, and we are moving aggressively in those efforts," he said.
Mustapha said the agriculture sector's budget has risen from about $18 billion to $113 billion in 2026, to fund infrastructure, equipment, technology and other resources that improve productivity and farmers' services.
He told NAREI staff they are responsible for executing the Government's policies and urged them to protect the vehicles.
"I urge that you use them in the best interest of the country and for their intended purposes. Let's not abuse these very critical assets," he said.

Fruit Fly Surveillance

The vehicles will improve the mobility of NAREI's technical and extension staff, particularly in farming communities that are hard to reach. A major focus will be the national CFF surveillance network, allowing officers to carry out regular trapping, monitoring and field inspections in major fruit-producing areas.
The Carambola Fruit Fly Programme aims to prevent the establishment and spread of the pest. Early detection and rapid intervention are critical to protecting the fruit industry, achieving pest-free status and safeguarding export markets.
The vehicles will also support extension visits, farmer education and public awareness, and help officers respond faster to problems in the field.

 

The ATVs that were handed over