January 23, 2025
The agriculture sector in Guyana has received a historic allocation in the 2025 National Budget, with $104.6 billion set aside to support critical aspects of the industry, including food security, drainage and irrigation, mangrove restoration, and support for farmers.
Public sector workers within the Ministry of Agriculture have expressed strong support for this year’s budget, especially the funding dedicated to boosting various agricultural agencies like the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).
Jagnarine Singh, CEO of NAREI, praised the budget’s size, calling it the largest ever allocation to agriculture in the country.
He emphasized that this funding would provide the foundation for significant expansion in the sector.
Aaron Ramroop, Hinterland Coordinator at NAREI, echoed this sentiment, stating that the budget speaks to growth and development across the agricultural landscape.
Warren Barlow, Training Manager at NAREI, highlighted the budget’s focus on developing key sectors such as rice and sugar, which are vital for enhancing food security in Guyana.
Selwyn Anthony, Senior Livestock Extension Officer at GLDA, and Sunil Balkaran, Livestock Officer at GLDA, also expressed support for the budget, particularly noting its importance for the dairy and beef industries.
Kene Moseley, Project Coordinator for Mangrove Restoration and Management at NAREI, praised the funding allocated for eco-system restoration.
In terms of specific allocations, the government has budgeted $2.9 billion for the cultivation of crops such as corn, soya, spices, broccoli, and cauliflower.
Additionally, $116 million has been set aside to boost the coconut industry, while $800 million will support the growth of the agro-processing sector.
The livestock industry will receive $1.7 billion in funding, and the fisheries and aquaculture sectors will benefit from $1.3 billion.
The comprehensive budget reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural production and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Guyana’s vital sectors.