SBM Offshore, in collaboration with local catering company, Newrest Guyana, and Plympton Farms, a global source for authentic Caribbean vegetables, recently commissioned a massive greenhouse project at Dora along the Linden Highway. The sole objective of this project is to reduce the amount of imported produce used onboard the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels operating offshore Guyana as well as at SBM Offshore Guyana’s onshore offices.
The produce cultivated on three acres of land include broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, cauliflower and chilli peppers, among others. Prior to the project, 85 per cent of the produce used onboard the FPSOs were supplied by local farmers while 15 per cent was imported. Through this collaboration, the import quantity was reduced to 10 per cent, with the objective of further reducing that to five per cent.
This news agency understands that the initiative was made possible through a tripartite agreement between SBM Offshore Guyana, Plympton Farms and Newrest Guyana. As part of that agreement, SBM provided financial and advisory support for the construction of the greenhouse based on Plympton’s proprietary design using cutting-edge technology and a sustainable hydroponics system.
During his remarks at the commissioning event, SBM Offshore Guyana’s General Manager, Martin Cheong reinforced the company’s support for local content, saying, “By partnering with local suppliers and businesses, we create a robust supply chain that stimulates economic growth. This collaboration ensures that resources are utilised efficiently. Through job creation, skill development and knowledge transfer, we as a company strive to strengthen the workforce and empower individuals to accomplish their goals.”
Through the Green Farms Initiative, this news agency understands that Plympton Farms has employed over 20 Guyanese living in nearby communities, contributing to job creation and stability in Dora and other communities, in alignment with SBM Offshore Guyana’s local content drive.
Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Plympton Farms, Kapil Mohabir extended his gratitude to the company for its support, stating, “Over the last three years, SBM Offshore’s partnership has empowered us to significantly expand our greenhouse acreage, resulting in the commissioning of this three-acre greenhouse today.”
Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Richard Blair lauded the company’s sustainable development drive and local content commitments, especially since they are in alignment with the regional 25 by 2025 goals, in which CARICOM aims to reduce food imports by 25 per cent by 2025.
