Fisherfolk in Regions 5, 6 benefit from $1.5B Govt support drive

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Saturday spearheaded the distribution of cash grants to fisherfolk in Regions Five (Mahaica–Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), as the Government continued its nationwide $1.5 billion support programme aimed at strengthening the fisheries sector.
In Region Six, where the Minister addressed fisherfolk at Albion, a total of 1704 fisherfolk are set to benefit from the initiative, representing a Government investment of $245.6 million. Each beneficiary is receiving $150,000 as part of the broader national intervention that will see thousands of fisherfolk across Guyana receive direct financial assistance.

The cash grant forms part of a wider package of measures implemented since 2020 to improve livelihoods, modernise operations, enhance infrastructure, and build resilience within the fisheries industry.
Addressing fisherfolk, Mustapha said the distribution was not merely a financial exercise but a recognition of the sector’s importance to national development.
“Today is your day. It may look like a small activity, but it is very important for us, because you as fisherfolk must recognise that this Government recognises your effort,” he said, noting that the promise made by President Dr Irfaan Ali was now being fulfilled.
He explained that although officers could have distributed the cheques on behalf of the Ministry, it was important for Government leadership to be present to show respect and appreciation for the fishing community.
Mustapha said the exercise is being conducted across all regions, noting that he had distributed grants in Region Two the day before, while another Minister covered Region Three, with the remaining regions to be completed shortly.
“At the end of the exercise, the Government will pay every single fisherfolk in this country. When you add the sum of $150,000, the Government will be expending $1.5 billion to the fishing community,” he said.
He emphasised that the grant was part of consistent support for fisherfolk.
“This is not the first time the Government is giving grants to fishermen. We recognise the important role that you are playing. You risk your life to go out there to bring in catches and provide cheap protein for the country. Without you, the country cannot have enough food,” Mustapha said.
Describing fisherfolk as among the hardest-working citizens, he said they often spend weeks away from their families in difficult conditions to ensure food security.

Broader vision for sector
While recognising their sacrifices, Mustapha said the Government was also pursuing a broader vision for the industry.
“We want to build an industry. We want to make it resilient, strong, and an industry for the future,” he said.
He noted that millions of dollars have been invested nationwide to rehabilitate and upgrade landing sites, including new sheds, washroom facilities, lighting systems and refurbished infrastructure. He cited the recent construction of a new building for the No. 79 Fishermen’s Cooperative Society at a cost exceeding $20 million.
Mustapha praised the No. 66 Cooperative Society in Region Six, describing it as one of the largest and most active in the country, and said its strong management structure positioned it well for further development.
The Minister also highlighted the distribution of vessel tracking devices to improve safety at sea, as well as plans to expand aquaculture and cage-culture operations, which now number more than 59 nationwide.

Income diversification, he said, remains a key focus, with fisherfolk being encouraged to pursue small-scale crop cultivation using shade houses.
Mustapha reminded fisherfolk that taxes on fishing equipment and engines up to 150 horsepower have been removed, reducing operational costs.
He said new landing sites would be constructed where none exist, and existing ones expanded to provide better facilities.
Marketing and processing were also identified as priorities, with plans to expand aqua processing capacity to extend shelf life and add value to catches.
The Minister also pointed to major reductions in piracy since 2020, noting that improved security and tracking systems have contributed to safer operations at sea.
He urged fisherfolk to continue supporting their cooperative societies, describing them as vital partners in industry development.
“President Ali’s decision to provide a cash grant is not just financial assistance. It is a powerful statement that your work matters and your Government stands with you,” Mustapha said.

Region 5
In Region Five, fisherfolk from Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary, Rosignol, Bush Lot and surrounding communities also benefited from the $150,000 cash grant, with many describing the support as timely amid rising operational costs.
Several beneficiaries said the funds would be used to repair boats, purchase fuel and gear, and support household expenses.
The national rollout has already covered Regions Two and Three, with the East Coast Demerara, East Bank Demerara and Georgetown scheduled to complete the exercise.
By the end of the programme, thousands of fisherfolk across Guyana will have received direct financial support, alongside long-term investments in infrastructure, technology, security and market development.
For fisherfolk in Regions Five and Six, Saturday’s exercise reinforced their role as a critical pillar of national food security and economic stability.
As Mustapha told them, “Our fishermen are among the hardest-working citizens of this nation. Day after day, you break the elements to provide food for our tables. Your Government recognises that, and your Government will continue to stand with you.”