570 fisherfolk in Region 2 receive $85.5M Government cash grant

…“it will help me repair my boat and provide for my family” – fisherwoman

Some 570 fisherfolk from across Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) received cash grants of $150,000 each on Friday, totalling $85.5 million, as part of the Government’s continued support for the sector. The initiative, under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Government, is aimed at strengthening the fishing industry and providing direct assistance to those risking their lives to supply affordable protein for the nation.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said the grants reflect the Government’s commitment to deliver on its promises.
“We might find this exercise very simple, that you’re coming here and you’re receiving a cash grant from the People’s Progressive Party Civic Government and a commitment. But this here again tells us that your party, the People’s Progressive Party Civic, and our President, when we make a commitment, when we make a promise, we always deliver on the promises that we have made,” he said.
Highlighting ongoing efforts to modernise the sector, Mustapha noted the rehabilitation of landing sites and the introduction of innovative practices such as cage culture in hinterland communities.
“Besides Mainstay and Capoey, we have a number of other communities across this country that now have cages, and they’re doing cage fishing. So we will be looking at that to expand, not only for the hinterland communities but also on the coast,” he said.
The Minister also assured fisherfolk that their concerns, including market access and high ice costs, are being addressed.
“I just spoke to one of the leading fisherfolk on the Essequibo Coast. He told me there is an issue with ice. We’ll be working very closely so we can have cheap ice to go out and see here,” he said.
Mustapha highlighted the Government’s long-term vision for the fishing sector and its cooperative approach. He explained that the administration is working to rehabilitate, restructure, and revamp fisherfolk cooperatives, ensuring an effective system that provides fair representation for all fisherfolk across the country.
He underscored that the PPP Civic Government has consistently supported the people and remains committed to their welfare and development.
Meanwhile, during an interview with fisherfolk, Nadia Basdeo expressed gratitude to the Government, saying the grant will assist her in maintaining her fishing equipment and supporting her family.
“I thank the Government for this grant; I remember asking for the cash grant, and here it is…it will help me repair my boat and provide for my family,” she said.
Kiran Persaud highlighted how the cash support will allow him to buy fuel and nets, easing the financial pressures of daily fishing.
“This $150,000 grant is a blessing; it will help me buy fuel and nets for my fishing business,” he said.
Roshni Dyal noted that the grant, along with better landing facilities, will strengthen her operations and improve her income stability.
“The grant and improved landing sites will make a real difference, giving us better opportunities and supporting our livelihoods,” she said.
Also attending the distribution exercise were Minister within the Public Works Ministry Mandalall Ramraj, Director General Sonia Latchman, Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Regional Vice Chairman Humace Oodit, representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, GRDB, and NARIE, and other officials.