During a recent meeting with rice farmers in Mahaicony and surrounding communities, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha addressed major concerns raised by farmers, including saltwater intrusion from the Mahaicony River, freshwater availability, and the need for excavation works in the area.
Responding to these concerns, Minister Mustapha immediately initiated measures to address the issues.
These include the installation of pumps in the area and necessary excavation works.
The Guyana Rice Development Board has been directed to conduct salinity tests four times daily to monitor salt levels in the Mahaicony River.
Minister Mustapha assured Mahaicony farmers that relief would be provided to ensure the continuous output of rice in the region.
Additionally, Minister Mustapha announced that construction on the Hope canals would commence in the first quarter of 2024, aiming to address drought-like conditions currently experienced.
The canals are part of the design to enhance water management in the region.
In the coming weeks, Minister Mustapha and his technical team will revisit the area to ensure the proper functioning of the installed systems, providing farmers with sufficient water access.
It was highlighted that approximately 40,000 acres of rice are cultivated in the Mahaicony area.
This proactive approach by the Ministry of Agriculture demonstrates a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by farmers and ensuring the sustainability of agriculture in the region.