Infrastructure, support for low-yielding farmers in Wakenaam coming

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, engaged farmers and residents at the island of Wakenaam, and assured them that efforts are underway to boost production by identifying and supporting farmers.

He told the farmers present that those who are recording below-average yields will be assisted by the ministry. He also disclosed a series of developmental works slated for implementation in 2026, as part of the Government’s continued efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods on the island.

“When I go to these forums and I talk about the national yield average, many farmers say that they are not getting that,” he said.

In response, the minister has tasked the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to pinpoint low-yielding farmers so targeted interventions can be implemented.

“I have asked GRDB to identify the low-yielding farmers so we can work with them. We can help them access better seed varieties and increase their yield when they harvest paddy,” he explained.

Beyond improving rice output, the government is also looking to diversify agriculture by introducing new and high-value crops. According to the minister, this push is part of a broader strategy to modernize the sector and increase farmers’ income.

“We want to do new things. We want to do new crops. We want to introduce high-value crops,” he said.

The minister also outlined significant financial commitments aimed at strengthening agricultural infrastructure. Over the next five years, the region is expected to benefit from a massive $5 billion investment.

For 2026 alone, $560 million has already been approved by Cabinet for drainage and irrigation works, along with upgrades to farm-to-market roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure.

He stressed that these investments are essential to improving productivity and ensuring long-term sustainability in the sector