The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has announced its top-performing cane harvesters for the First Crop of 2025, with Uitvlugt Estate claiming the top three positions across the entire industry. The announcement was made during a simple yet significant ceremony held at the Rose Hall Estate on Friday, June 6, 2025, where the top twelve harvesters from across GuySuCo’s estates were formally recognized for their outstanding productivity.
Mr. Leon Seelall of Uitvlugt Estate was named the Most Productive Harvester for First Crop 2025, delivering an impressive 644.81 tonnes of cane in just 54 days, averaging 11.94 tonnes per day. His colleagues, Mr. Keyoma Pilgrim and Mr. Danier DeChuna, also from Uitvlugt, secured the second and third spots with 622.45 tonnes and 435.82 tonnes, respectively. All three harvesters, through their dedication and consistent performance above the daily average, earned an average day’s pay of $32,000. This remarkable achievement marks the second consecutive crop in which Uitvlugt Estate has
produced top harvesters for the Corporation.
The Most Productive Cane Harvester Programme is a relatively new initiative introduced in the Second Crop of 2024. Conceptualized by GuySuCo’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Paul Cheong, the programme was designed to enhance motivation, encourage accountability, and ultimately improve productivity within the harvesting teams.
“Our aim is to foster a results-driven culture where every individual understands the value of their role and is inspired to give their best,” said CEO Cheong. “This initiative not only boosts morale but also ensures our employees are recognized for their dedication and hard work.”
In addition to the Uitvlugt awardees, top harvesters from other estates who were recognized include:
∙ Albion Estate: Mr. Kumar Deodat, Mr. Vicky Seenarine, and Mr. Mahase Sukhnandan ∙ Blairmont Estate: Mr. Kheran Bissoondyal, Mr. Totaram Sanichara, and Mr. Anthony Lewis ∙ Rose Hall Estate: Mr. Nigel McDonald, Mr. Tavell Lovell, and Mr. Samuel Jhingree
In his remarks, Mr. Cheong also acknowledged the challenges posed by the ongoing developmental boom, which has drawn many skilled workers to other sectors. “GuySuCo remains steadfast in its commitment to regaining and retaining talent through competitive compensation and recognition-based programmes such as this one,” he said. “Our harvesters are the true heart of GuySuCo- without them, there is no sugar. We are determined to ensure they always feel valued.”
The Guyana Sugar Corporation extends sincere appreciation to all its harvesters for their commitment and hard work during the First Crop. The Corporation remains optimistic about the continued impact of
this programme in boosting industry morale and productivity as it charts a course toward greater sustainability and growth.
