Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha is encouraging rice farmers across Guyana to embrace integrated farming as part of the government’s strategy to strengthen farm incomes, increase resilience and boost agricultural productivity.
Addressing rice farmers in Region Five during the distribution of cash grants on Tuesday, the minister urged farmers to dedicate a small portion of their holdings to complementary agricultural activities alongside rice cultivation.
“If you can identify even half an acre, one acre, or up to two acres of your land, we will work with you to develop integrated farming,” Minister Mustapha explained.
Under the initiative, farmers will receive technical support from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) to establish diversified production systems.
The minister said farmers can use the designated acreage to cultivate high-value crops in shade houses, rear poultry or engage in small livestock production, creating additional sources of income while reducing dependence on rice alone.
He explained that diversification is particularly important as global rice prices continue to fluctuate, making it necessary for farmers to build greater resilience through multiple agricultural enterprises.
The government remains committed to supporting farmers throughout the transition by providing the necessary technical guidance and extension services.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader agenda to modernise agriculture through increased mechanisation, expanded irrigation and drainage infrastructure, improved farm-to-market roads and the opening of new export markets.
While reaffirming the government’s continued investment in the rice industry, the agriculture minister said integrated farming offers farmers an opportunity to maximise the productivity of their land and strengthen household incomes.
He encouraged farmers to partner with the ministry’s technical agencies to take advantage of the programme, noting that diversified agriculture will help position Guyana to meet growing regional food demand while improving livelihoods in rural communities.