By Saskia Warrick
Rice and cash crop farmers in Guyana have started receiving the much-needed fertilizer promised by the government.
Approximately 850 million dollars was allocated to provide this assistance, aimed at offsetting the escalating costs of inputs and preventing the burden from being passed on to consumers.
The distribution of fertilizer commenced last Friday in Region 5, where farmers were provided with vouchers to collect the fertilizer from designated distributors.
For rice farmers, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) will oversee the distribution based on verified acreage being cultivated.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting farmers to enhance productivity.
He reiterated that such initiatives aim to ensure increased yields and sustainability within the agricultural sector.
Despite challenges posed by El Nino conditions, Guyana continues to surpass cultivation and production targets.
Minister Mustapha expressed confidence in the country’s ability to overcome these challenges, particularly regarding irrigation for the remainder of the crop.
As the distribution of fertilizer progresses, farmers across the nation are expected to benefit, providing them with essential resources to boost their agricultural activities.