By Josiah Williams | November 4, 2024
Guyana’s brackish water shrimp industry is set to see a significant boost with the construction of 70 new shrimp ponds across the country.
The announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during a meeting with shrimp farmers at the Albion Sports Complex.
The initiative, which began in 2021 with 80 farmers, has grown to include an additional 45 participants.
As of now, 55 shrimp ponds have been developed.
This expansion is part of the government’s broader strategy to increase production and improve the sector’s overall efficiency.
The production of brackish water shrimp has shown remarkable growth in recent years.
In 2023, shrimp farmers in Region 6 collectively earned 1.8 billion dollars from their output. Initially, monthly production was around 9,000 kilograms.
However, thanks to government support, production has surged significantly.
By September 2024, total production for the year had reached 98,159 kilograms.
The government has invested heavily in the project, with a focus on purchasing excavators and other essential materials for pond construction.
This investment is expected to continue as the new ponds are developed and the industry expands.
In addition to increasing pond capacity, the government is working on a plan to secure shrimp larvae locally, reducing the need for farmers to source them from the Atlantic Ocean.
This will further support the sustainability and growth of the industry.
The expansion of the brackish water shrimp sector is part of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to diversify its agricultural output and contribute to the country’s economic development.