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Aquaculture Advancements in Guyana

May 31, 2024 Letters

Dear Editor,

Aquaculture has emerged as a vital sector in Guyana’s agricultural landscape, and its progress under different administrations showcases the impact of policy and leadership. A comparative analysis of the strides made under the current Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, against the backdrop of the APNU/AFC administration, reveals significant advancements in the sector under Minister Mustapha’s leadership.

Aquaculture under the APNU/AFC Administration

During the APNU/AFC administration (2015-2020), efforts in aquaculture were relatively modest. While the government recognised the potential of the sector, investments and comprehensive policies to boost growth were limited. Statistics from the Guyana Bureau of Statistics shows that by 2020, aquaculture production was approximately 1,000 metric tons annually, with the sector facing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited technical support, and insufficient funding.

Transformative Changes under Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Since taking office in August 2020, Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has prioritised the development of aquaculture, implementing a series of strategic initiatives that have resulted in remarkable growth. Under his leadership, the Ministry of Agriculture launched targeted programmes to enhance production, improve infrastructure, and provide technical and financial support to farmers.

  1. Increased Production: By 2023, aquaculture production had surged to 3,500 metric tons annually, reflecting a 250% increase since 2020. This significant rise demonstrates the effectiveness of the policies and support mechanisms put in place by Minister Mustapha.
  2. Infrastructure Development: The government, under Mustapha’s guidance, has invested heavily in modernising aquaculture facilities. This includes the construction of new fish ponds and hatcheries, and the upgrading of existing infrastructure. These improvements have enhanced the capacity and efficiency of aquaculture operations across the country.
  3. Technical Support and Training: Recognising the importance of knowledge transfer, the Ministry of Agriculture has provided extensive training programmes for aquaculture farmers. These programs focus on best practices in fish farming, disease management, and sustainable production techniques. The Ministry has collaborated with international experts to ensure that Guyanese farmers are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge.
  4. Financial Support and Incentives: To encourage investment in aquaculture, the government has introduced various financial incentives, including grants and low-interest loans. These measures have made it easier for farmers to expand their operations and adopt modern technologies.
  5. Research and Development: Under Mustapha’s tenure, there has been a significant increase in research and development activities aimed at improving aquaculture practices. The establishment of research facilities and partnerships with academic institutions has led to innovations that enhance productivity and sustainability in the sector.

Comparative Impact

The comparative impact of the two administrations is stark. While the APNU/AFC administration laid some groundwork, the lack of comprehensive policies and limited investment hindered substantial growth. In contrast, Minister Mustapha’s tenure has been marked by robust policy implementation, significant investments, and a focus on capacity building, resulting in a thriving aquaculture sector.

The statistics clearly indicate that under Minister Mustapha, aquaculture in Guyana has advanced rapidly, positioning the country as a potential leader in the Caribbean’s aquaculture industry. The substantial increase in production, coupled with improved infrastructure and farmer support, highlights the transformative impact of strategic leadership and investment in this critical sector.

Sincerely,

Satrohan Singh

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