Guyana building out integrated agri-food economy – Pres Ali in World Food Day Message

…says vision driven by productivity, technology, competitive industry

The Guyana Government has reiterated its commitment to a resilient, inclusive and sustainable food systems – something which is reflected in its drive to modernise agriculture, strengthen food and nutrition security, and contribute to the Caribbean’s capacity to feed itself.

This is according to President Dr Irfaan Ali in his World Food Day 2026 Message on Friday. This year’s observance is being held under the theme “Innovate today.” Nourish tomorrow.”
According to the Guyanese Leader, this theme “…reinforces our vision of a productive, technology-driven and competitive agricultural sector. We are building an integrated agri-food economy that connects production with innovation, financing, storage, processing, transportation and marketing.”
The investments made are already yielding measurable results, with the International Monetary Fund’s most recent report highlighting that Guyana’s agricultural sector has grown by an average of 10 per cent annually since 2022 – accounting for six per cent of national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 20 per cent of non-oil GDP.
President Ali said his Government intends to build on this progress by diversifying production across crops, livestock, fisheries, aquaculture and agro-processing, while strengthening traditional industries.
Recognising that farmers remain central to this transformation, he pointed out that the newly launched Guyana Development Bank (GDB) is offering zero-interest, no collateral financing to help farmers and agro-processors invest in machinery, land preparation, improved seeds, livestock, irrigation, storage, and modern technology.
“By expanding production of rice, corn, soya, poultry and other priority commodities, while strengthening processing, packaging and cold-chain infrastructure, we intend to reduce import dependence, create livelihoods and improve the availability and affordability of nutritious food,” the Guyanese Leader posited.
He went on to add, “…I call on our farmers, fishers, agro-processors, private-sector partners and all citizens to renew our collective commitment to food security. Through innovation, investment and responsible stewardship of our resources, we can build a modern agricultural sector that expands opportunity, strengthens livelihoods and ensures that every family has access to safe, nutritious and affordable food.”

Regional purpose
Ali outlined that these national efforts also serve a wider regional purpose. Through CARICOM’s food-security agenda, including the 25 by 2030 initiative, Guyana is helping to reduce the Caribbean’s reliance on imported food.
According to the Head of State, stronger trade links, harmonised standards, improved transportation and regional investment will be essential to building a more integrated and resilient Caribbean food system.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha in his World Food Day message said that Guyana is demonstrating what sustained investment, innovation and partnership with farmers can achieve.
With the agriculture sector’s budget growing from $18.4 billion in 2020 to $113.2 billion in 2026, Mustapha noted that this investment strengthens the infrastructure and services that farmers need to increase production, improve productivity and build more profitable and sustainable enterprises.
“We are advancing climate-smart agriculture, modernising drainage and irrigation, improving farm-to-market access, strengthening extension services through digital platforms such as the Agriculture Information System and Farmers’ Connect App, and expanding opportunities in livestock, agro-processing, storage and agricultural diversification.

These initiatives are designed to create greater opportunities for farmers while improving the availability and affordability of nutritious food for our people,” the Minister stated.
According to Mustapha, “Innovation must deliver practical results. It means equipping farmers with better information, improved technologies, quality inputs and more effective systems to manage climate risks, pests and diseases. It also means encouraging young people to embrace agriculture as a modern, technology-driven sector, while ensuring that women, small farmers, Indigenous communities and rural households have opportunities to participate and benefit.”
Noting that the vision extends beyond national borders, the agriculture Minister added that Guyana will continue to work with CARICOM partners to strengthen regional production and trade, improve the movement of agricultural goods and advance our shared goal of a more food-secure Caribbean.
He further reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening food security, improving nutrition and ensuring that the benefits of agricultural development reach communities across Guyana.
“On this World Food Day, I salute our farmers, fisherfolk, livestock producers, agro-processors, researchers, extension officers, market vendors and everyone who contributes to our food system. Your hard work sustains our nation and strengthens our future. Let us continue to support local production, embrace innovation and work together to ensure that every household has access to nutritious food. By investing in agriculture today, we are building a stronger, more food-secure Guyana and a more resilient Caribbean tomorrow,” Mustapha stated.