The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Caribbean Agricultural Productivity Improvement Activity (CAPA) have signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at enhancing agricultural interventions in Guyana. These agreements are expected to drive forward the expansion and success of key initiatives in the sector.
CAPA, a project funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Improving Economies for Stronger Communities (IESC), focuses on improving agricultural productivity and market efficiencies throughout the Caribbean.
The signing ceremony took place on Thursday at the Grand Coastal Hotel, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, marking the inclusion of Guyana as CAPA’s third official collaborator in the region.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, who was present at the ceremony, highlighted the MoUs as a structured approach to achieving Guyana’s goal of enhancing food security by 25% by the year 2025. The $5.3 million initiative will benefit stakeholders by encouraging the adoption of market-oriented agricultural practices and technologies, thereby facilitating greater access to both domestic and regional markets.
Minister Mustapha also emphasized the importance of creating a level playing field within the Caribbean. He noted that while international agencies are providing support to enhance local capacities and boost productivity, efforts are also being made to strengthen trade relations among member states to meet market demands.
Notably, the MoUs focus on increasing agricultural productivity, building the capacity of buyers, and improving farm-level extension systems, aligning closely with Guyana’s national agenda for agricultural development. Minister Mustapha expressed confidence that this new partnership would take a holistic approach to enhancing the entire agricultural value chain, benefiting suppliers, extension workers, processors, wholesalers, and regional development partners alike.
“We are moving in the right direction. To achieve sustainable growth, it is crucial to equip our farmers with the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market,” Minister Mustapha stated.
The project will also introduce innovative technologies, such as bee starch and products designed to extend the shelf life of produce, underscoring a commitment to reducing post-harvest losses and increasing the value of agricultural output.
USAID’s Project Management Specialist for Economic Growth & Local Works Development, Durwin Humphrey, stressed that the MoUs represent a vital step in building a robust coalition that leverages the strengths of its partners.
Humphrey highlighted that the collaboration aims to minimize duplication, create synergies, and strategically allocate resources to address key challenges faced by local producers. He expressed optimism about the positive impact this structured partnership would have in the coming months.
