Guyanese farmers are poised to receive specialized technical assistance through the launch of the Caribbean Agricultural Productivity Improvement Activity (CAPA) project.
This $5.3 million initiative is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and is set to contribute to the enhancement of agricultural practices in the region.
The CAPA project, a significant collaboration between USAID and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), emerged from the 9th Summit of the Americas, focusing on ensuring food security in the Caribbean.
The project has three interconnected objectives aimed at generating positive impacts for smallholder farmers, enterprises, and consumers across the region.
The key objectives include increasing the production of fruits and vegetables, improving domestic and regional marketing linkages, and strengthening public-private sector extension skills, training, and systems to transfer best practices to smallholder farmers.
Durwin Humphrey, USAID Project Management Specialist, highlighted the significance of the CAPA project in meeting the food security goals of the Caribbean.
The initiative aims to create tangible positive outcomes for farmers and the agricultural sector as a whole.
NAREI’s Research Scientist, Ramnarace Sukhna, shared insights into ongoing collaborations with Brazil for improved cherry production, India for coconut, and local efforts for turmeric production.
These partnerships and interventions are geared towards advancing agricultural practices and reducing dependency on food imports.
Over the past three years, various interventions have been implemented to support farmers, contributing to positive progress in Guyana and the broader Caribbean.
The CAPA project aligns with the 25 by 2025 agenda, focusing on reducing food imports and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.