Agri Minister assures farmers of adequate water supply for new rice crop

In a bid to support the upcoming rice crop, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha met with farmers at the Regional Democratic Council’s Boardroom, Anna Regina, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam.)
The purpose of the meeting was to provide an update on the system that will be put in place to facilitate water intake in rice fields for smooth sowing for the farmers.

Mustapha while engaging farmers, highlighted the challenges posed by the prolonged dry season and emphasised the need for effective measures to ensure that all farmers can benefit from available water resources to sustain their crops. By implementing the necessary systems, the ministry aims to support and provide equal opportunities for all farmers to access the water they need for their crops, he said.
Further he added that he is very satisfied that all four pumps at the pump station are in operation. He expressed confidence that within five days, there will be a sufficient water level to meet the needs of the farmers. This timely assurance comes as the sowing period commences in a few weeks, ensuring that farmers have the necessary resources to sow their paddy for the new rice crop.
“While travelling I saw that most of the lands are preserve and farmer are waiting for water elevation. Within the few days we are hoping to have the water system raise substantially because farmers ate pumping water approximately two hundred and fifteen thousand four hundred gallons per minute,” the minister added.

Additionally, in recognising the importance of collaboration, Mustapha emphasised the involvement of farmers and other stakeholders in forming a management committee. He noted that the committee will play a crucial role in monitoring the water situation and ensuring that resources are readily available. He also committed to supporting farmers within the Pomeroon to Supenaam Region, by providing them with access to an adequate water supply.
Meanwhile, farmer Joe Rampersaud told the publication that he is very happy that the Agriculture Ministry has acted promptly on the water system. He added that the water will allow him to sow his crops and ensure his livelihood.
“I’m very happy that we have received generous support from the government, it’s definitely a relief for us as farmers to have access to water during the dry season. Thank you to the Ministry of Agriculture. ” Another farmer said
Additionally, the minister after engaging farmers at the RDC Boardroom, visited the Dawa Pump Station, Located at Tapakuma Lake, Region Two, where he access the flow of water.
The Dawa pumping station was designed to provide irrigation water from the Tapakuma River to supplement water in the Tapakuma Lake/Conservancy to irrigate rice lands along the Essequibo Coast from Somerset & Berks in the north to Zorg En Vlygt in the south.
Attending the meeting and visit were representatives from the WUAs, regional officials and regional security officials to monitor the situation and ensure effective water management within the cultivation areas. (G14)