Rice cultivation training exercise slated for Region Six

Aug 29, 2008 News

A three-day training exercise will be conducted at Orealla/Siparuta, Region 6, to train farmers and residents in the cultivation of rice and improved varieties of crops using modern, but yet simple techniques.

This was revealed yesterday, when representatives from the community met with Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud, to discuss collaboration and possible assistance for villages as part of the Ministry’s ‘Grow More Food’ campaign.

The training, which commences during the first week of September, will be conducted by personnel from National and Agricultural and Research Institute, Guyana Rice Development Board and the Ministry’s Plant Health Department.

Minister Persaud also urged that the community form a farmers’ group to access additional community assistance to boost their agricultural activities.

The Community was also tasked with nominating interested residents to be trained as extension agents to serve the area’s agricultural needs.

The delegation was led by the Captain, Mc Lean De Vair and other representatives of the Amerindian community, with areas of discussion centered on support from the Ministry and its ongoing campaign to boost food production.

A quantity of seeds and literature were presented to the delegation for distribution to the community.
Minister Persaud, in his discussion, identified areas of cooperation which includes beans and a variety of other crops suited to the conditions that exist at Orealla/Siparuta.

“The Ministry and its agencies will also explore the possibilities of cultivating nutmeg, black pepper, ginger and other seasoning as part of the Ministry’s renewed diversification thrust,” the Minister said.

The distribution of seeds and planting material to hinterland communities began several weeks ago through the assistance of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs.

Spices that will be grown include black pepper, Tumeric (dye), and nutmeg through the Germaplasm technique.