Gvt Reaffirms Support for Rice Farmers in Essequibo
March 10 2025- The Government of Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to the rice sector, highlighting significant investments in infrastructure and direct financial support to farmers.
During a meeting with Essequibo Coast rice farmers on Friday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha emphasized the administration’s ongoing efforts to develop the region and cautioned against political distractions.
Over the past four years, the government has injected substantial resources into the sector, providing financial relief to farmers, improving drainage and irrigation systems, and expanding the region’s fleet of machinery.
The minister noted that prior to 2015, several lucrative markets were established for Guyanese rice. However, under the previous administration, key agreements were lost, leaving farmers without payments. Since returning to office in 2020, the government has worked to reclaim these markets and settle outstanding debts, including a $1.7 billion payment owed for rice shipments to Panama.
As part of ongoing infrastructural development, 16 additional pieces of heavy machinery—including excavators, graders, and bulldozers—have been added to the region’s fleet, bringing the total to 24. Mini excavators are also expected to be distributed to local municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in the coming weeks.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, also addressed the gathering, urging farmers to remain vigilant as the 2025 General and Regional Elections approach.
He reiterated the government’s longstanding support for the agricultural sector, emphasizing that the administration has consistently stood by farmers through both prosperous and challenging times.
In a broader push to enhance the country’s agricultural infrastructure, the government has allocated over $500 million for drainage improvements in Pomeroon. Efforts include the dredging of the Pomeroon River, rehabilitation of farmlands, and the construction of new drainage systems to mitigate flooding. Additionally, 40 new pumps and 63 sluice rehabilitations are set to be completed by the end of 2025.
The government continues to expand its agricultural support initiatives, ensuring that farmers have the necessary resources to sustain and grow their businesses. With substantial investments in drainage, irrigation, and market access, the administration remains committed to strengthening Guyana’s rice industry for long-term prosperity.
(Department of Public Information report)
