The Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha, brought meaningful support to Orealla and Siparuta during an outreach on Friday, handing over valuable agricultural supplies to residents. Items like 30 water tanks, fishing nets, seeds, planting materials, and a variety of crop suckers were distributed to bolster local agriculture efforts.
During his address to those present, Minister Mustapha emphasized the government’s vision to establish a resilient, modern agricultural sector across Guyana, sharing that President Dr. Irfaan Ali, a farmer himself, is committed to understanding and addressing the real challenges farmers face. His deep connection with agriculture ensures that practical solutions are at the forefront of the government’s approach.
Residents expressed their gratitude, recognizing the government’s substantial investments and noting the positive changes already unfolding in their communities. Many residents voiced hopes for continued development, seeing new potential for growth and opportunity in the support they received.
During the outreach, residents raised concerns such as the need for enhanced land-clearing, drainage and irrigation systems, better pest control, water access for farming, and protection against drought. Minister Mustapha responded with a series of initiatives aimed at addressing these needs.
Each of the 375 households will receive 20 Black Giant chicks to foster poultry farming, and 18 shade houses—12 in Orealla and six in Siparuta—will be constructed to involve young people through the Agriculture Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme. In addition, the ministry will supply 20 tonnes of cassava and help find markets for local produce. To aid fishermen, two solar freezers will be installed for storing their catch, and an excavator will be dedicated to land clearing, drainage, and irrigation within the two villages. Two residents will also be trained as agricultural extension officers to support these efforts on the ground.
In addressing the communities’ future, the Minister revealed plans for a new road linking Moleson Creek on the Corentyne to Orealla and Siparuta, along with the upcoming Corentyne River Bridge, which will eventually connect the communities, creating more accessible routes for trade and transport.
The Agriculture Minister noted that the People’s Progressive Party Civic Government views agriculture as essential to Guyana’s progress, as shown in these substantial investments. He said with the steady support and sustainable practices, Orealla and Siparuta are positioned to develop into vibrant agricultural communities, contributing to the country’s broader growth vision.
