Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha is promoting agriculture as one of the sectors most worthy of investments, positing that an investment in agriculture is an investment in the bedrock of nations.
The minister said as much this morning as he welcomed hundreds who converged in the compound of the Authur Chung Convention Center (ACCC) for the opening of Agri-Investment Forum 2023 held under the theme, **”Accelerating Vision 25 by 2025: Investing in Agri-Business and Food Security.”**
Mustapha dubbed the forum a reflection of a profound commitment to the future of agriculture in the Caribbean—a future, which he says, hinges on critical investments.
Mustapha said that agriculture is more than just a sector; “it’s a way of life, an economic pillar, and a source of sustenance for our people. Thus, our pursuit of investments in agriculture is a pursuit of resilience, prosperity, and food security.”
The minister said the investment forum serves as a rallying call to governments, investors, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to come together, pool resources, and commit to the growth and transformation of agriculture sectors.
Mustapha noted that his ministry is fully committed to this cause as it recognizes diversification as key to unlocking the true potential of the local agriculture sector.
He committed that his ministry will continue to work diligently to make available the resources, both financial and knowledge-based, necessary to propel the agriculture sector toward resilience and sustainability.
“Our commitment extends to smallholder farmers and vulnerable communities and also recognizing the need for large scale commercial agriculture to be able to produce at optimal economies of scale and increase Guyana’s competitive advantage,” said Mustapha.
Turning his attention to Vision 25 by 2025, the Minister said that by modernizing agriculture practices, improving value chains, and leveraging technology and innovation, the region can bolster its capacity to produce, store, and distribute food. “In doing so, we not only feed our people but also reduce our dependence on imports, enhance our resilience in the face of external shocks, and create new opportunities for economic growth.”
Mustapha told the audience that opportunities for investment in Guyana’s agriculture sector are abundant. He boasted also about the country’s vast tracts of arable land, abundant freshwater resources, and a supportive regulatory environment.
The minister then charged, “Let us engage in meaningful dialogue, forge partnerships, and commit resources to drive the transformation of the agri-food system.” He added, “Together, we can make the 25% by 2025 target a reality, and we can usher in a brighter, more prosperous, and food-secure future for our region.”
