Over $400 million injected into rice farming for Essequibo – President Ali
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Saturday announced a series of new measures to make rice farming more profitable and resilient, as he led the distribution of over $400 million in direct cash grants to rice farmers across Region Two.
Addressing hundreds of farmers at the Anna Regina Town Council in Region Two, the president said the initiative is another demonstration of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s unwavering commitment to agriculture and rural development.
He reminded farmers that the government has consistently fulfilled its promises, pointing to sustained investments in drainage and irrigation, tax relief, infrastructure and direct support to producers.
“This is a government you can trust. This is a government that continues to work alongside you. This is a government that has demonstrated respect for you,” President Ali declared, while urging farmers to judge the government by its record of delivery.
The head of state said more than 5,100 rice farmers cultivating over 235,000 acres nationwide will benefit from the programme. In Region Two alone.
He noted that the grants came just one day after the government distributed more than $1 billion in education grants to children in Region Two, meaning that within two days, more than $1.5 billion had been injected into the regional economy through direct government support.
“Our agriculture system must not only be strong. It must be viable and profitable,” the President stressed.
Beyond the cash grants, President Ali announced a comprehensive package of additional investments designed to improve productivity and reduce costs for farmers.
These include a nationwide assessment of agricultural infrastructure, upgrading farm access dams to all-weather roads, expanding drainage and irrigation works, and the opening of new agricultural lands in Region Two to create opportunities for young people.
He also confirmed that the government is moving ahead with the construction of modern rice drying and storage facilities, fulfilling a long-standing request from rice farmers.
At the same time, a special team has been established to identify new export markets and market opportunities, while discussions are underway with the private sector to increase the use of locally produced rice in value-added products.
Recognising labour shortages facing many farmers, President Ali revealed that the government is exploring the use of drone technology to assist with fertiliser application and crop spraying, particularly for smaller producers.
He said the initiative emerged directly from consultations with farmers and forms part of the government’s broader push to modernise agriculture through technology.
“Planting rice is not only planting rice; it is a business,” he said, explaining that, “If you have diversified sources of revenue, you’re reducing your risk and increasing your ability to earn.”
Looking ahead, President Ali said the planned establishment of the Guyana Development Bank will further transform the sector by expanding access to affordable financing.
“I want you to leave here knowing that we care about you, we will invest in you, and we will demonstrate our love and commitment to you every single day of the year because we believe in this region and we believe in you,” President Ali said.
