As part of its commitment to fostering capacity development across Guyana, the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture to develop sustainable and climate-resilient farming models. These models aim to accelerate food production while fortifying Guyana’s food security.
The Agricultural Innovation and Empowerment Programme (AIEP), launched on October 20, 2023, at the Agri-Investment Forum, is a centerpiece of this collaboration. It is strategically designed to enhance agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, and align with Guyana’s goal of reducing the regional food import bill by 25% by 2025.
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This program is set to create over 1,000 job opportunities for young people in Regions 2, 5, and 10. By engaging youths in innovative agricultural practices, the initiative promises to bolster the country’s agricultural sector and pave the way for a more resilient future.
During a site visit to the AIEP in Region 5, Fort Wellington, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha highlighted the program’s potential. “This initiative will help us tremendously,” he stated. “First of all, it will bring in more young people. Over 300 young individuals will be attached to one of these projects. Across Regions 2, 5, and 10, we expect to involve over 1,000 young people at a minimum.”
Central to the program’s innovation is the introduction of hydroponic farming. These farms will focus on cultivating high-value leafy vegetables and fresh herbs, many of which are currently imported. By utilizing smart agricultural techniques, the hydroponic systems aim to boost efficiency, enhance production, and encourage farmers to adopt these methods in their operations.
Mustapha emphasized the importance of these efforts in advancing Guyana’s leadership role within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). “Guyana is the leading CARICOM country in food security, and I think this project helps us move and push that process forward,” he remarked.
The GGI’s investment and the Ministry of Agriculture’s vision for the AIEP underscore a shared commitment to sustainable growth and development. Guyana is positioning itself as a beacon of food security and resilience in the Caribbean region by equipping the next generation with the tools and opportunities to innovate in agriculture.
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This project is one of more than 25 currently being supported by GGI across Guyana’s 10 administrative regions. These projects span crucial areas such as Education and Training, Economic Development, and Health.
GGI represents a US$100 million, 10-year investment by the Stabroek Block co-venturers – ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, signifying their commitment to Guyana’s sustainable development.
