Guyana’s rice farmers say future of industry uncertain

By Kristen Macklingam

Hundreds of rice farmers throughout Guyana are still contemplating their next move, as they continue to battle with the low prices for their produce coupled with their expenses which keep piling up in the form of bills and loan repayments.

Guyana Times International understands that the farmers on the islands of Leguan and Wakenaam, Essequibo, are also faced with more difficulties on account of the dry weather conditions which are preventing planting for this crop.

Reports are that Leguan is presently surrounded by salt water which is having an adverse effect on the agricultural sector on that island, compounded by the lack of rainfall, and many rice farmers are at a loss as to what they can do to sustain their livelihoods.

The lack of rainfall is also having a negative impact on the rice industry in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

According to Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) Vice Chairman Sheik Inshan Ayube, most of the farmers have not been paid for the last crop paddy despite the fact that they suffered major losses.

“Hardship for the farmers is prevailing on the island. They are wondering where the next dollar will come from,” Ayube recently stated. He referred to the former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) plans to establish a plantain chip factory to negate any negative impact on the rice industry on the island. This would have ensured that the affected rice farmers have another source of income, Ayube noted.

“It appears this project is neglected by the present Government or the Minister of Business does not have any idea how to move this project forward,” the Region Three Vice Chairman said.

Guyana Times International understands that in light of the difficulties being faced by rice farmers in both Leguan and Wakenaam, they are calling on the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government to get the long-awaited plantain chip factory in their area “up and running”.

In addition to this, a large number of rice farmers in the Region and other parts of the country are seeking the intervention of the Administration via the provision of some financial assistance such as grants to ensure that they and their families can survive this year.