Min Mustapha calls for stronger regional agriculture push
May 1 2026
Guyana’s Minister of Agriculture and Chairman of the CARICOM Agriculture Ministers Task Force, Zulfikar Mustapha, has underscored the critical role of farmers in shaping the Caribbean’s future while delivering the feature address at the opening of the National Agriculture and Trade Show 2026 in Belize.
Addressing government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, farmers, and agribusiness stakeholders, Mustapha extended greetings on behalf of Irfaan Ali and the people of Guyana to Belize. He stressed that farmers must be recognised not only as food producers but also as innovators, entrepreneurs, and key drivers of regional development.
“Across our region, farmers are not just producers—they are innovators, risk-takers, and stewards of our future. Their resilience and commitment continue to sustain our economies, strengthen food systems, and create opportunities for generations to come,” he stated.
The minister praised Belize’s agricultural sector, noting its strong farming traditions and commitment to innovation, which have positioned the country as a major contributor to regional food and nutrition security.
“Belize has long been recognised as one of the agricultural powerhouses of our region. Its fertile lands, strong farming traditions, and commitment to innovation have positioned it as a key contributor to regional food and nutrition security,” he said.
Mustapha also highlighted the urgent need for deeper regional collaboration as Caribbean agriculture faces mounting global pressures, including climate variability, rising input costs, supply chain disruptions, and increased international competition.
He pointed to ongoing structural challenges such as limited arable land in some territories, restricted access to financing, praedial larceny, and inadequate transportation linkages as barriers to growth.
Despite these challenges, the minister expressed optimism that the region can transform its agricultural sector through innovation, strategic investment, and strengthened partnerships.
“Yet, within these challenges lies tremendous opportunity—opportunity to modernise our production systems, embrace technology, strengthen value-added industries, and build a more resilient and food-secure Caribbean,” Mustapha noted.
