Guyana showcases bold agricultural vision
–– achievements in increased production, investments and diversification take centre stage during Agriculture Month 2025
OUTLINING Guyana’s ambitious strides and its rising influence in regional and global agri-food systems, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha highlighted the country’s expansive agricultural sector.
Speaking at the launch of this year’s Agriculture Month celebrations and calendar of events held under the theme, “Transforming Livelihoods through AgriFood Systems ,” Mustapha stated that Agriculture Month is not merely a ceremonial observance, but a moment of national recognition.
“It’s time for all of us to celebrate the people whose works sustain our nation,” he said, addressing farmers and other stakeholders present at the ministry’s Regent Street office.
Reflecting on the sector’s broader role, he emphasised agriculture’s social and economic importance.
“The food we grow not only nourishes our nation, but also creates meaningful employment, helps to re -
duce poverty and promotes equity in every region.”
Highlighting a dramatic rise in public investment, the minister pointed out that the agriculture budget has grown from $13 billion in 2020 to $104 billion in 2025, crediting this with enabling rapid development and diversification across sub-sectors.
Looking at some of the country’s achievements, Guyana, he said, has entered large-scale production of corn and soya, with a goal to become self-sufficient by 2026, saving US $40 million in import costs.
Minister Mustapha outlined progress in traditional and emerging areas such as hydroponics, high-value crops, and coconut farming.
Guyana has also started producing Vietnamese prawns and expanded black shrimp output from 10,000 kilogrammes monthly to approximately 120,000 kilogrammes.
He noted too a shift in how young people perceive the sector.
“Gone are the days when
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha
young people see [sic} agriculture as a menial activity. Today, we are having graduates from the University of Guyana embracing agriculture and making their livelihoods out of it.”
Minister Mustapha called on stakeholders to unite behind the government’s vision: “Let us redouble our effort here. Let us work together as a team and let us ensure that we take the opportunities that
are being created by the government.”
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Vikash Ramkissoon, said agriculture is the backbone of our economy and has played a significant role in the country’s history.
“Over the last five years, this government has been able to transform the agriculture sector, investing heavily in modernising the sector with improved
technologies, modern infrastructure and value-added initiatives. A resilient and efficient agri-food system must encompass sustainable production practices, expanded market access, and ongoing capacity development.”
Meanwhile, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative, Gillian Smith, highlighted the nation’s commitment to sustainable agrifood systems, emphasising Guyana’s leadership in reducing the food bill by 25 per cent by 2030 and integrating food-system strategies into national policies.
“Agriculture is not just about the crops and the livestock. It is the backbone of rural livelihoods. It’s a driver of innovation worldwide,” Smith said.
She stressed the importance of this year’s theme, highlighting Guyana’s evident commitment through its programmes and policies, which speak directly to the FAO’s mission to create inclusive, resilient, and sustainable ‘agri’ food systems
that nourish.
“As we mark Agriculture Month, we reaffirm with you our shared commitment to empowering farmers and other value-chain holders, especially women, especially youth, with access to technology, finance and markets, supporting livelihoods and initiatives, strengthening rural enterprises and community-led initiatives such as the small-grants programme that is being undertaken by FAO,” she added.
She noted too that Guyana’s commitment is reflected in the many leadership portfolios it holds in the region, championing food security in the Caribbean and Latin America.
“By working together, we can unlock the full potential of ‘agri’ food systems to drive the prosperity, to drive the equity and the resilience of Guyana and from Guyana to the Caribbean and from the Caribbean to the world together, it is our work, and it is our honour to be able to transform food systems,” Smith added.
Guyana stands ready to share expertise, partner with others to advance global food systems
–– President Ali tells UN, challenges
POSITIONING itself as a leader in both regional and global initiatives to transform food systems, Guyana stands ready to share its expertise in food security, and engage willing stakeholders to address the global vulnerabilities.
Speaking at the 80th United Nations General Assembly held in New York recently, President Irfaan Ali called for decisive action to combat hunger, promote food security, and strengthen resilience in agricultural production.
Highlighting Guyana’s leadership within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President Ali spoke of ongoing efforts to implement the CARICOM Agri-Food Systems Agenda through “Vision 2030”, a strategy aimed at boosting
food production, ending hunger, and strengthening food security across the region.
He noted that Guyana’s experience proves how strategic investments, and strong political will can drive real transformation in both national and regional food systems.
“Our experience demonstrates that strategic investment and political will can transform national and regional food systems,” the Head of State said.
Beyond the Caribbean, President Ali called for a global transformation of food systems to make them more resilient, sustainable, and equitable, particularly by strengthening local production and reducing dependence on volatile international markets.
world leaders to make decisive investments, strengthen political will
He warned that current global food systems remain too vulnerable to external shocks, disproportionately affecting developing nations and small economies.
With growing global concern over food insecurity, particularly in the context of conflict, climate change, and economic instability, the President positioned Guyana as a willing and capable partner in global cooperation.
“Guyana stands ready to share its experience and partner with others to ensure nutritious food for all,” President Ali added.
Out of 186 countries, only Guyana produces enough food to self-sufficiently feed all its citizens without foreign imports, according to a recent study published in Nature Food.
Nature food had investigated how well each country could feed their populations in seven food groups: Fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, meat, plant-based protein, and starchy staples.
Worldwide, the study
found that 65 per cent of countries were overproducing meat and dairy, compared to their own populations’ dietary needs.
It also found that Guyana was the only country that could boast total self-sufficiency, while China and Vietnam were close behind, being able to produce enough food in six out of seven food groups. Just one in seven of the tested countries was judged self-sufficient in five or more categories.
Hatching success: Victoria farmer builds thriving poultry enterprise from grandmother’s legacy
INSPIRED by his grandmother, Brian Smith a poultry farmer from Victoria Village, along the East Coast of Demerara, has turned a simple childhood passion into a thriving agri-business.
What began as a small chicken coop in his home has grown into one of the community’s most promising farms, supplying fresh eggs and other poultry products to meet residential demands.
“My grandmother was a farmer; she planted sugarcane and cassava, reared chickens and pigs. Farming became part of our lives because it was part of the society we grew up in,” he said.
Brian recalled the farm being his first classroom. There, tending to crop and nurturing small ruminants were the lessons he learnt that later led him to become an educator.
“I did poultry farming from a young age,” he said, a gleam in his eyes, before adding: “Those simple tasks sparked purpose in me.”
Now retired, Brian shared that his decision to take poultry farming seriously came from both demand and community need, leading to the establishment of the Always Fresh Poultry Farm.
“Victoria didn’t have any major poultry farms; people had to leave the village to buy eggs,” he explained.
“Now I’m rearing poultry for both eggs and meat on a larger scale.”
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A FARMER
A typical day on the Always Fresh Poultry Farm begins just before the sun rises.
“Around 06:30hrs. I check the water supply, clean
the sanitation basins with Jeyes Fluid or bleach, and then start collecting eggs,” Brian shared.
Egg collection takes place thrice a day, from first light at 07:30hrs to the final round at 16:30hrs, woven between the steady rhythm of feeding, cleaning, and sanitising the pens.
These days, Smith tends to more than 2,300 chickens, mostly ISA Browns and White Leghorns.
“What I enjoy most is watching them grow healthy and strong,” he said, his face lighting up with the quiet satisfaction of someone who has turned daily routine into a labour of love.
Brian further explained that while his passion runs deep for farming, he has experienced his fair share of challenges along the way. A case in point, two weeks ago, he lost 30 birds to a bacterial
infection, despite his best efforts to nurse them back to health.
Though a hit to his usual production, Brian was still able to meet the demands of his customers.
“None of my eggs go out with cracks or spoilage,” he said. “I check every tray carefully before selling. My biggest motivation is seeing my products grow healthy, and keeping my customers satisfied.”
Brian takes pride in maintaining top quality production.
“Agriculture will never fail you,” he said confidently. “Food is always in demand; it provides security for families and the nation.
“It makes me proud to see how far I’ve come from just a few chickens in the backyard to a full farm, feeding my community,” he added.
Innovative tissue culture ‘lab’ transforming crop cultivation
GUYANA has taken a major step towards advancing sustainable agriculture, by commissioning its first biotechnology plant-tissue culture laboratory that was inaugurated on Tuesday by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha.
The state-of-the-art facility, established with an investment of approximately $450 million, represents a key component of the government’s broader agenda to modernise and strengthen the agricultural sector.
Delivering the feature address at the commissioning ceremony, Minister Mustapha emphasised that the government continues to prioritise agriculture as a cornerstone of Guyana’s non-oil economy.
He noted that the sector has recorded steady growth in recent years, contributing significantly to GDP expansion, job creation, and export diversification.
“Over time, this increases the national supply of key crops such as plantains, pineapples, citrus, and root crops, which will strengthen domestic food security and sustain the local agro-processing industries, such as fruit processing, packaging and export,” Minister Mustapha explained.
Developed in collaboration with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) of India, and financed through the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) under the Sustainable Agricultural Development Programme (SADP), the laboratory is expected to transform the country’s crop-production capabilities.
The facility is designed to produce over one million plantlets annually, a significant leap from the previous output of 15,000.
These plantlets will be clean, high-yielding, and disease-free, supporting crops such as pineapple, citrus, plantain, sweet potato, breadfruit, sugarcane, and even exotic fruits such as strawberries and blackberries.
The biotechnology ‘lab’ marks a major milestone in Guyana’s efforts to enhance food security, agricultural innovation and sustainable economic growth, laying the foundation for a more resilient and diversified agricultural future.
Brian Smith
Guyana embracing evidence-based management, stakeholder collaboration to propel local fisheries
By Faith Greene
FROM the pristine waters of our shores to the buzzing market stands, and finally to our plates, fishing may seem simple, but beyond the casting of nets and trawling by those brave enough to face varying tides is an expanding industry that not only feeds a nation, but also contributes to di-
versifying an economy.
In Guyana, local fishers have been working closely with researchers and specialists to ensure that the local fishing industry becomes resilient, sustainable and innovation driven.
Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Vickash Ramkissoon, has said that every policy of the government is people-centred, with
the aim of building lasting prosperity.
He said the government recognises that for the fisheries sector to be sustainable, management must be grounded in evidence-based decision-making, establishing a strong partnership among all stakeholders.
Ramkissoon pointed out that over the last five years, the government has placed
tremendous effort into making the sector resilient, while addressing a symposium of stakeholders from the University of Guyana’s Faculty of Natural Sciences and Faculty of Agriculture, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
“Over the last five years in the agriculture [sic] sector,
The fisheries sector allows for community development. Despite low numbers, it is also inclusive for women and youths
for example, we have placed tremendous efforts on making the sector resilient, one, sustainable, two, and it’s innovation-driven,” he said.
He added that the sector is moving at a “very fast rate,” and attributed this growth to modern technologies and innovative tools.
“It’s important. So, in terms of fisheries, it remains very vital to our national development agenda, our food security and also as a source of employment,” the Minister said.
Meanwhile, Fisheries Officer at the ministry here in Guyana, Randy Bumbury, presented on the development of fisheries and aquaculture, as well as the challenges and opportunities that are available.
Bumbury affirmed that both fisheries and aquaculture production are on the rise and that the global capture in fisheries remains stable.
The officer said the fisheries sector is split into three pillars, mainly for inland, aquaculture, and marine sectors. Within the marine sector are the industrial, semi-industrial, and artisanal fisheries.
The sector, Bumbury said, provides a number of benefits to all Guyanese, which also extend to our sister countries in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the wider Latin America region.
He noted that Guyanese can secure economic gains from the sector. This helps with the creation of employment. It also creates indirect employment for persons interested in venturing into this sector.
Looking at poverty alleviation, the fisheries sector helps to enrich families and is inclusive of women and youths. While inclusive, the turnout of women and youth is quite low in this sector.
“Our aim is to ensure
that we can have zero hunger, gender equality, ensure that life below water is quite accessible and measures to mitigate climate action.”
TECHNOLOGY
Embracing technological innovation, Bumbury revealed that Guyana’s fisheries sector has made significant strides by deploying drones for monitoring and surveillance at sea.
Drones are now essential tools used to track fishing vessels along the coastline, boost enforcement operations, and ensure compliance with national regulations. Several pilot programmes have been launched to identify the most effective drone models for marine use, adapting technology to the unique challenges faced at sea. According to Bumbury, one ongoing difficulty has been safely landing drones, as their flight paths can diverge from pre-set landing points. Nonetheless, officers continue to rely on drones for real-time aerial surveillance, coastal monitoring and data collection. This has proven invaluable for detecting illegal fishing activities, monitoring environmental conditions and supporting sustainable management of the sector.
According to Bumbury: “For our activities out at sea, we tend to utilise drones still to ensure that we are able to help in terms of monitoring.”
He pointed to the current construction of an Aqua Feed Mill to produce shrimp feed at a capacity of two to three tonnes per hour. This $200 million investment is expected to be completed in 2026 and will be located at Mon Repos on the East Coast of Demerara. While the industry has seen successes, Bumbury believes Guyana has not yet unlocked its full potential in expanding its fisheries sector.
Fertile Soil: The foundation of Guyana’s agricultural renaissance
By Shaniya Harding
AGRICULTURE in Guyana is reaching new heights, with a growing variety of crops being cultivated, new sub-sectors emerging and production levels being higher than ever before.
This growth is attributable to a combination of factors, proactive leadership, scientific and technological development and expert insight.
But, according to Professor Gomathinayagam Subramanian of the University of Guyana (UG), one of the leading reasons for the country’s agricultural success is simply arable soil.
Professor Gomes, as he is popularly known by his students, has spent nearly two
decades nurturing agriculture in Guyana and combining scientific research with traditional techniques.
Also serving as the Director of UG’s Berbice Campus, Professor Gomes believes more emphasis on soil fertility, disease control, and sustainable practices are key measures that could propel Guyana to being the leader in organic farming.
“I work closely with farmers and learn a lot from them. My goal has always been to help control plant diseases, improve crop growth and production and maintain soil fertility. My main dream is to see Guyana become an organic country. We can make it happen by minimising the use of chemical fertilisers,” he shared during
Professor Gomathinayagam Subramanian, affectionately known as Professor Gomes, has dedicated nearly two decades to advancing agricultural science and farmer-education in Guyana (Photo credit: Ministry of Education )
an interview with this publication.
Over the years, Professor Gomes has collaborated with the Ministry of Agriculture and countless other agencies focused on strengthening Guyana’s agricultural capabilities. While some projects are still ongoing, he notes that Guyana’s agricultural success, though it may appear sudden, is the result of long-term effort and a gift of nature.
“Guyana can grow everything.
With our soil, water, and environment, this country has unlimited potential. The government’s focus on agriculture makes me even more hopeful we can feed not only ourselves, [but also] the entire Caribbean.”
BUT WHAT TRULY MAKES GUYANA’S SOIL SO SUITABLE FOR A WIDE VARIETY OF HEALTHY CROPS?
Having published more than 97 scientific papers and attended over 85 conferences worldwide, many of them in Caribbean countries; Professor Gomes says it all comes down to the microorganisms present in our soil.
These microscopic organisms are vital to soil health, and in Guyana, they are thriving. Between 2006 and 2008, Professor Gomes conducted extensive soil testing in Region Six,
See page 11A
Fertile Soil: The foundation ...
collecting and analysing samples across the area. He found that not only is Guyana’s soil nutrient-rich, but it is also ideal for a vast range of crops.
“Soil health depends on micro-organisms. When micro-organisms are active, they help decompose organic matter and release nutrients, making the soil fertile and helping plants absorb what they need. I conducted a soil survey from Moleson Creek to New Amsterdam, collecting and analysing more than 200 soil samples. The results were excellent. Guyana’s soil contains strong microbial populations, which is why I always say this country can grow anything.”
While Guyana’s fertile soil is no secret, Professor Gomes believes that the sector’s recent growth is driven by leadership and research. The potential has always been there, but now it is being fully harnessed.
With the right approach, he says, Guyana’s agriculture could surpass national expectations.
“Today, I can confidently say, as a Guyanese, that we can feed not only our own population but also the wider Caribbean. With institutions like [sic] NAREI (National Agricultural Research and Extension institute), and the GRDB (Guyana Rice Development Board) improving crop varieties and resistance, our agricultural potential is expanding. Guyana truly is a fortunate country,” he said.
FEEDING THE SOIL, NOT JUST THE PLANTS
However, while soil quality, sunlight, research, and modern techniques are advancing the sector, challenges remain, especially among small-scale farmers.
Professor Gomes explained that traditional fertilising practices, though familiar, often need to be modernised.
“In Guyana, many farmers still rely on traditional fertiliser methods, such as applying urea three times during the crop cycle. This practice needs to change: Urea is important for vegetative growth, but excessive use encourages disease in crops like [sic] rice, okra, tomato, and pepper. When too much urea is applied, plants develop brown or black spots and wilt easily.”
Fortunately, bold steps are being taken by Guyana’s agricultural institutions. According to Professor Gomes, as regards soil-testing, NAREI plays a vital role in managing fertiliser use.
“To manage this, soil-testing is crucial. Fortunately, NAREI offers free soil-testing, which takes about two to three weeks.
This service helps farmers understand what nutrients their soil needs before they plant. Just as a doctor examines a patient before prescribing medicine, farmers must diagnose their soil before applying fertilisers,” he explained further:
“Knowing what crops were previously planted, what nutrients are present and what the soil conditions are can make a big difference. With proper soil management, farmers can reduce costs, protect the environment, and improve yields sustainably.”
BREAKING GROUND WITH NEW CROPS
Recently, Guyana has been cultivating entirely new crops, extending its reach into new markets and industries. Among the most impressive developments has been the successful introduction of soya and corn, both
new frontiers for Guyana’s farmers.
Professor Gomes highlighted that these crops not only demonstrate Guyana’s natural capability, but also signal entry into new international markets.
“Guyana has started cultivating crops that were not traditionally farmed here, such as soybeans and maize. These crops are very interesting because they provide protein-rich food sources and have strong market potential. Soybean harvests, for example, are often exported directly, meeting international demand,” he said.
“New crop varieties, improved pest-resistant species, and salt-tolerant plants are being developed by NAREI and the GRDB. These innovations make it possible to grow crops that were once imported, such as onions and carrots. Aromatic rice varieties similar to basmati are now being cultivated locally.”
Despite the challenges, Professor Gomes remains optimistic about Guyana’s agricultural future, emphasising that the nation is bound to see continued agricultural success.
“Guyana has tremendous agricultural potential. With fertile soil, abundant water and a favourable environment, we can grow nearly anything and feed not only our own population, but also the wider Caribbean,” he said. Ultimately, the future of agriculture in Guyana depends on knowledge, adaptability, and care.
“Success in agriculture requires careful monitoring and proper practices.
Farmers must pay daily attention to their crops, just as parents care for their children. Observing plant health, adjusting for soil and water conditions, and responding to environmental changes are essential for productivity.”
Over US$10 million invested in corn & soya beans project
––– David Fernandes says Guyana is ‘lucky’ to be the only country that is self-sufficient in food production
–– Highlights govt’s efforts to diversify economy
GUYANA’s ambitious goal of agricultural self-sufficiency and value-added production is gaining traction as over US$10 million has been invested in the flagship corn and soya beans project, which is transforming the country into a regional powerhouse.
This was disclosed by the Lead Director and Chairman of the project, David Fernandes, during his appearance on the Starting Point Podcast last week.
The corn and soya beans production is being undertaken by a group of mainly local investors under the name, “Tacama Gold.” The investors are the owners of Guyana Stock Feed Limited, Royal Chicken, Edun Farms, SBM Wood, Dubulay Ranch and Bounty Farm Limited, along with the Brazilian-owned N F Agriculture. Fernandes is also the Managing Director of Bounty Farm Ltd.
During the discussion, Fernandes highlighted that this project, among other initiatives - which are being pushed by the government - signals a strategic shift towards economic diversification and sustainable development, even as the burgeoning oil and gas sector dominates headlines.
Guyana’s future extends well beyond oil and gas, as in August, it was reported locally harvested soybeans were transported by vessel, for the first time, from the Tacama drying and storage facility, located approximately 90 miles up the Berbice River, to a processing mill where it was then converted into poultry feed.
President Irfaan Ali announced the development and highlighted the achievement as a landmark moment, given the fact that the project commenced in 2021.
Guyana is expected to achieve self-sufficiency in the production of all livestock feed, resulting in a decreased reliance on imports.
This progress is evident as 12,000 acres of corn and soya were produced in 2024. To become self-sufficient, the government invested significantly in the Tacama, Savannah area [along the Berbice River], where more than 40 kilometres of road have been constructed. While initially there was not much optimism about being able to tackle the grain
industry, Fernandes said, “As Richard Branson always says, ‘If someone gives you an opportunity, say yes, and then try to figure it out, because the opportunity doesn’t come again,’ because if you say no, he’ll give someone else the opportunity.”
While those companies leading the project are competitors, the objective, as highlight-
ed by Fernandes, is to make Guyana grow.
“So, as the Lead Director on this project, it is a privilege for me to be a part of it,” he said, while explaining that initially, the companies worked on their own with their individual resources, but then came together to secure a loan from a commercial bank at a favourable rate.
Additionally, while over 7,500 acres of soya and corn are under cultivation in Tacama, Berbice River, some will be harvested now, and the remaining in March 2026.
“We have the capacity on our farm to do about 15,000 acres, and we will be greater than 50 per cent of that by 2026. By 2027, we will probably be planting the full land
given to us,” he stated.
The goal is to become self-reliant and self-sufficient with the best quality product while simultaneously saving on resources, providing employment and all elements that are necessary to work in harmony with the environment.
On that note, he noted that the project is environmentally responsible as they are using savannah lands and not forest lands.
“We’re not the only company doing this, so I’m very excited that others will follow us, and some have already, and together, we’ll do it. You know, where we can become, at least in the region, an exporter of grain to the Caribbean within a very short time,” he further stated.
BEYOND OIL AND GAS
The government is looking far beyond oil and gas, Fernandes stated, pointing to the positive trajectory of the non-oil sectors.
“I wouldn’t say the government’s focus is solely on oil and gas. Oil and Gas gives us the opportunity to do everything else...But I really think that the government is thinking about multiple things, or having to think about multiple things all at once; so infrastructure development, security, education, health, and then also how to navigate, in an agricultural sense, the world-market situations that affect us both positively and negatively from time to time,” he said.
Amidst global challenges, he lauded the government’s ability to keep the country stable, even tracing the administration’s competency to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The government did a great job of not stopping imports to help service and support these agricultural entities.
But we, we as a country, should realise that we are kind of lucky in our ability to provide food for ourselves,” he said.
Back in August, David Fernandes and other partners visited the project where over 7,500 acres of soya and corn are under cultivation at Tacama, Berbice River
Managing Director of Bounty Farm Ltd., David Fernandes, during his interview on the ‘Starting Point’ podcast with hosts Fareeza Haniff and Kiana Wilburg
