Cassava poised to make a substantial economic contribution – Minister Ramsammy

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Guyanese-produced farine is gaining in popularity with its own niche market, outside of its traditional users, those in the hinterland community; and to increase its usage. Government is set to a build what has been described as a full phased factory operation for the processing of the item made from cassava, with the first facility to be installed in Region Nine later this year, Minister of Agriculture Dr. Leslie Ramsammy told the media.

Cassava cultivation at Yarakita
Cassava cultivation at Yarakita

Minister Ramsammy noted that many of the hinterland residents depend on the cassava for not only food security, but for a livelihood. “I am happy to report that the Guyana farine which is almost exclusively produced in the hinterland is becoming popular outside of our borders. Whilst Brazil, for example produces it own farine, Guyana’s farine is becoming a niche market in Brazil”. He added that the locally produced product is now gaining attention in the Caribbean market. This provides an opportunity for the semi-industrialisation of the cassava industry, Minister Ramsammy said, and this can move the crop’s production from a subsistence level to an actual industry.
Farine production is traditionally done by indigenous women, who use their hands to harvest cassava, clean, peel and squeeze the tuber to produce the product. The Agriculture Ministry has assisted several communities by providing grinders to ease their task, said the minister, but this new move takes that assistance a step further.
The crop gives farmers an average of two tonnes per acre according to the minister, but it is normally grown nine to ten months annually. There are varieties of cassava that can result in yields of up to 30 tonnes annually, but if farmers can double their production they can also double their income without additional investment or work.
The Agriculture Ministry is partnering with IICA, the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute, the National Drainage Authority and Guysuco’s Apprentice School situated in Port Mourant to ensure the pre-fabricated components of the processors are properly constructed with local materials.

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