…new fertiliser plant, co-investment fund to boost Guyana agriculture – Pres Ali
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced two major initiatives set to transform Guyana’s agricultural landscape, with the construction of a state-of-the-art local fertiliser plant and the establishment of a co-investment fund to support farmers with financing and access to capital. These efforts, according to the President, are part of a broader strategy to modernise the sector, reduce dependency, and promote long-term sustainability for farmers across the country.
President Ali arrives for the Saturday meeting with farmers, fisherfolk and other stakeholders at Anna Regina Secondary Schoola
During a recent engagement with farmers and stakeholders, at Anna Regina Secondary School’s Auditorium, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), President Ali revealed that within the next two years, Guyana will have its own fertiliser facility to serve the needs of the entire local farming community. This local production capability, he noted, will end the country’s reliance on volatile global markets and supply chains for fertiliser.
President Ali said that the establishment of a local fertiliser plant will allow Guyana to produce region-specific fertiliser blends, tailored to the unique soil types found across the country.
The Presidents speaks to the audience of Government’s plans for agriculture in the region
He added that this customisation is crucial because different soils require different nutrient compositions to maximise crop growth. By providing fertilisers that are specifically designed for each region’s soil, farmers can apply nutrients more efficiently, reducing waste and lowering costs. This targeted approach, he emphasised, will not only help farmers save money but also significantly increase agricultural productivity, leading to better yields and stronger food security for Guyana.
“Within the next two years, Guyana will have its own fertiliser facility to meet all local needs. This will eliminate dependency on global prices and supply chains… More importantly, it will allow us to produce region-specific blends, tailored to different soil types across Guyana. This will significantly reduce costs and increase productivity,” the President noted.
Some of those gathered to hear the President speak of Government’s initiatives
Farmers have long expressed concern over the rising cost and inconsistent supply of fertiliser—both of which have impacted yields and profitability. By establishing a domestic plant, the Government aims to ensure a stable, affordable supply, while introducing scientifically tailored fertiliser blends designed for local conditions. This strategic move is expected to result in increased output, healthier crops, and improved competitiveness for Guyanese farmers.
Co-investment fund
Alongside this, the President also announced the creation of a new co-investment fund that will allow the Government to partner directly with farmers, thereby easing their access to loans and improving their financial resilience.
The fund, which was born out of public consultations, is designed to tackle long-standing challenges in agricultural financing—particularly the high-risk profile often associated with farming.
“You, the people, gave us an idea over the last five years…the need for a special fund to support agriculture. We listened—and we are acting…We will establish a co-investment fund where the Government can partner directly with farmers. This reduces the risks for banks, lowers interest rates, and helps you get better loan terms,” he said
By reducing the burden on traditional lending institutions, the co-investment fund is expected to unlock new opportunities for small and medium-scale farmers. It will also allow more farmers to invest in improved technologies, irrigation systems, and equipment—key components in building a resilient and profitable sector.
Farmers praised the initiatives announced by His Excellency, saying they will improve their livelihoods.
“Having a local fertiliser plant means we won’t have to rely on expensive imports any more. Fertilisers tailored to our soil will help our crops grow better and stronger,’ a farmer said. Another farmer said that the co-investment fund will make it easier for them to get loans and invest in their land.
“This will assist us tremendously we won’t have to wait long long, and it will make us easier for us to get loans and invest more… This support gives us hope for a better future,” another farmer added.
Many agreed these steps will reduce their costs and give them more control over their farms.
