By Mark DaCosta- In a move aimed at revolutionising the agri-sector in Guyana, the People’s National Congress Reform/A Partnership for National Unity (PNCR/APNU) Coalition has unveiled a plan designed to bolster food security and self-sufficiency among Guyanese citizens. With the glaring reality of our country’s reliance on imported food juxtaposed against its fertile lands, the coalition says that it firmly believes that new, strategic governmental initiatives can transform agricultural output and alleviate food poverty for families across the nation.
The pressing issue of food insecurity has long been a thorn in the side of our nation, particularly given the paradox of abundant arable land and persistently high import bills. Recent attempts by the incumbent administration to cut food imports by 25 percent have not materialised, leading to an ongoing crisis where many Guyanese are forced to subsist on a single meal daily while grappling with escalating food prices. Critically, the APNU Coalition points to the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) long tenure in office as a period marked by stagnation in agricultural development. The coalition’s stance is clear: immediate reforms are necessary to create a sustainable future.
Under their proposed programme, the APNU Coalition envisions a significant overhaul of the agricultural landscape, making food both affordable and readily available. With their commitment to food production and security, they say that they aim to make our agricultural sector a key pillar of the non-oil economy, prioritising initiatives that will turn farming into a viable and profitable endeavour for smallholder farmers, youth, and larger stakeholders alike. They claim, “We will make every Region self-sustainable in agriculture.”
The coalition has released a detailed agenda consisting of over 20 strategic goals. These include enhancing drainage and irrigation systems to combat water management issues that have plagued farmers for years, promoting diversified cropping, and modernising land tenure systems to secure property rights for farmers. They recognise that reliable infrastructure — roads, transport, and storage facilities — is crucial for a thriving agricultural economy. Additionally, the plan advocates for increased access to financing through the establishment of a state-owned development bank, ensuring that farmers can obtain the loans needed for investment and growth.
A unique aspect of their agricultural strategy involves prioritising the production of fertilisers with natural gas resources to significantly lower costs for farmers. This will bolster the supplies available to them, further enhancing productivity. The coalition’s long-term vision extends beyond mere food production; they aim to modernise farming practices through the integration of advanced technology, such as drones and satellite systems, for precision agriculture. They state, “These are some of our strategies to transform the agri-sector and increase food security.”
The press release also includes specific references to critical industries in our nation: rice and sugar. While noting current challenges faced by rice farmers — including low yields and market access — the coalition emphasises its intent to engage with stakeholders directly to create solutions. Their unwavering focus on improving production, storage, and distribution mechanisms reflects an apparent understanding of the complex interplay that sustains the rice market.
In terms of the sugar industry, APNU proposes a comprehensive reevaluation of GUYSUCO, the state’s sugar corporation. Shifting focus from an agriculture-centric model, they argue for diversification into new business ventures alongside sugar production. By tapping into areas like aquaculture and renewable energy through sugarcane, they propose creating a robust economic engine for the country. Through the potential for innovation in how sugar by-products are utilised, the coalition outlines a promising new trajectory for an industry that has struggled historically.
Ultimately, the APNU Coalition’s stated plan to revitalise our agricultural sector display a pragmatic understanding of the challenges at hand. By addressing the critical needs surrounding food production, transportation, financing, and infrastructure, they aim to empower citizens and bolster our nation’s food security. Their commitment to fostering a self-sustaining agricultural economy speaks to the core of national interests, promising a more resilient future for Guyanese families.
