New farm-to-market road to support Buxton farmers

A farm-to-market road that leads farmers to the dam at Buxton, East Coast Demerara, has brought much relief to them, but some challenges remain.

On Tuesday, representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture engaged members of the Buxton/Friendship Grantees Registered Proprietors Cooperative Society to deal with concerns affecting them.

Though this $94 million road paves the way for greater access, some farmers noted that poor irrigation, limited access to land, and a lack of consistent government support continue to affect their production.

Cort Adams, a farmer, said the road has improved their ability to sell the crops.

“If somebody want to buy something, they want pok choy, ochro, bora they does drive and come and buy right here,” Adams said.

Leroy Aimer, a farmer, backed the road but said thousands of crops are destroyed due to inadequate water supply, blocked canals, and poor drainage systems.  He also highlighted the need for modern farming support, including machinery, training, and financing for young and new farmers.

Farmers also received grants from the government to support their small-scale farming. Additionally, the Agriculture Ministry, through its extension programme conducted by the National Agricultural Research and Extension institute (NAREI), has provided the farmers with support for water testing, among other relief and support. The farmers also received 30 doors to support their irrigation.

There were calls for stronger collaboration between farmers, communities, and the government to maintain drainage systems and develop long-term support.