Five-day training on fertilizers and biofertilizers to boost food security in Guyana

On Monday, a workshop aimed at expediting Guyana's food security agenda was inaugurated. The five-day training program will focus on the efficient utilization of fertilizers and biofertilizers, as well as nutrient management. The event will be held at the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) Auditorium, located in Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. The training will involve around 40 attendees, consisting of students, extension officers, and personnel from various organizations such as the GSA, Guyana Sugar Corporation, new Guyana Marketing Corporation, and National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute. The utilization of mineral fertilizers is essential in achieving food security, while biofertilizers play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture by boosting soil fertility, plant tolerance, and crop productivity. Effective nutrient management strategies can also lead to the efficient utilization of nutrients by selecting the appropriate fertilizer in the right quantity. Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, expressed his belief that the training program is a positive step towards accelerating food production. This is particularly important as the country aims to produce 60% more food in the same cultivated areas. Minister Mustapha further added that the efficient utilization of fertilizers will be immensely beneficial to farmers by reducing production costs and increasing crop yields. The success of this program depends on the proactivity of extension officers, who play a vital role in bridging the gap between the government, private sector, and farmers. Additionally, it is crucial to expand the initiative's coverage and services to all regions, farmers, and farming communities in Guyana. On the other hand, US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, noted that the training program marks a significant milestone in the US/Guyana and US/Caribbean relations. She further added that this initiative is designed to address the critical issue of food insecurity. Khalil Ahmed, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Representative, expressed his anticipation of a productive week of training that would transfer vital knowledge to participants. Mervyn Farroe, the USAID/ESC Regional Representative, highlighted USAID's collaboration with partners in Guyana and the region to tackle challenges related to food insecurity, such as fertiliser accessibility, reliable supply chain models, and the need for better production techniques, storage, and transportation. Over 22,000 farmers have already benefitted from the distribution of fertilisers, with the government investing over $1 billion in subsidies for farmers in 2022. The workshop, led by USAID technical experts, will take place at the GSA from April 24-28, 2023.

Source(Image: Department of Public Information (2021), News: Department of Public Information (2023))

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24 Apr 2023 17:45 | by anaraine