Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder, on Sunday, said his ministry is
committed to the transformation of the nation’s agricultural sector to
one that is sustainable in keeping with government’s Green Economy.
Speaking at an inter-faith service to launch agriculture month, under
this year’s theme, “Shaping Agriculture for a Green Economy,” the
Minister said the theme indicates the ministry’s commitment to lead
the way in transforming the sector into sustainable, productive and
diversified agriculture. He noted that it also highlights the
government’s commitment to the ‘Green Economy’ agenda as it is the
blueprint for a better quality of life for all
In his remarks, Minister Holder said that “The Ministry of Agriculture
aims to contribute towards this goal through sustainable, productive,
climate resilient and diversified agriculture. Specifically, the
re-orientation and diversification of the sector, reducing reliance on
traditional sub-sectors and opening new higher valued added and higher
growth industries and investment opportunities for sustainable income
generation,” Minister Holder said.
According to the Agriculture Minister, the sector faces a multitude of
challenges and as such, “we should have no delusions regarding the
scale of these challenges”, hence all relevant stakeholders have a
role to play. He noted that the ministry will also place emphasis on
the use of alternative energy to reduce the cost of production in the
agricultural sector.
The minister urged all to take part in as many activities slated for
the month-long observance and to view the areas being focused on by
the ministry.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Delma
Nedd said the interfaith service is a positive start for the
month-long observance which reflects togetherness, team spirit and the
commitment of the ministry and its sub-sectors. Nedd added that the
green economy provides a substantial possibility and potential for
growth, especially within the agriculture sector.
“The sustainable use of agriculture practices from our farmers, food
processors, local retail and exports can all play a vital role in
ensuring that a sustainable agriculture system is realised. More so,
in moving to green agriculture improvements in production systems and
crop and livestock feeding programmes can result in increased food
production,” PS Nedd said.
Such increases, she said, can allow the ministry to create new markets
with non-traditional agriculture through a partnership with young
people and other relevant stakeholders in the quest to achieve the
Ministry’s goal of a sustainable, more productive agriculture sector.
Among those present at the interfaith service were National Drainage
and Irrigation Authority (NDIA)’s Chief Executive Officer, Frederick
Flatts, Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) Managing Director, Nizam
Hassan, Chief Hydrometeorological Officer (ag) Dr. Garvin Cummings
among others.
The series of activities to mark Agriculture month includes the
observance of National Tree Day and the annual FAO World Food Day
among other.
