$480M Boost for Region Five Rice Farmers
January 7 2026
Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday led the distribution of financial assistance to rice farmers as the Government continues its efforts to strengthen the rice industry and protect the livelihoods of farmers.
The initiative fulfils a commitment made by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, under which rice farmers are receiving $300 per bag of paddy to help offset production costs and stabilise incomes. As part of the exercise, approximately $480.5 million was distributed to 1,618 rice farmers in Region Five (Mahaica–Berbice).
The support forms part of a broader national programme, representing an estimated government investment of $2.1 billion, aimed at sustaining rice production, enhancing national food security, and bolstering the resilience of one of Guyana’s key agricultural sectors.
