The Caribbean’s first agritourism policy and roadmap was recently unveiled, marking a significant step towards diversifying Guyana’s economy and strengthening its non-oil sectors.
The draft policy, developed through a collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture; the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), outlines a strategic framework for funding and expanding the country’s agritourism sector.
During a national stakeholder meeting held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha and Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond discussed the policy’s potential impact on Guyana’s economy.
The agritourism initiative seeks to blend Guyana’s rich agricultural heritage with its burgeoning tourism sector, creating sustainable tourism experiences while fostering economic growth. The policy envisions significant benefits for farmers, rural communities, and small businesses, including increased development opportunities and job creation.
Minister Mustapha highlighted the transformative potential of agritourism for Guyana’s non-oil economy.
“The development of the agritourism sector and the establishment of a comprehensive roadmap and policies represent a bold vision for Guyana’s future,” he said.
While the policy is still in its draft stage, the government has already been investing in the sector, including constructing eco-lodges to enhance agritourism experiences.
Minister Walrond was keen to note Guyana’s capacity to provide world-class agritourism experiences, citing the Rupununi Rodeo as an example of how agricultural traditions can attract visitors.
“We have seen what agritourism can achieve. The Rupununi Rodeo, which stems from cattle farming, is a prime example of how authentic agricultural experiences draw interest. Visitors are increasingly seeking these unique opportunities,” she noted.
Overall, both ministers agreed that Guyana holds substantial potential to become a leader in the region in the agritourism field.
