Several persons have indicated an interest in developing large-scale agriculture projects in the Intermediate and Rupununi Savannahs, during President Bharrat Jagdeo’s recent trip to the Brazilian State of Roraima.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, President Jagdeo said that Embrapa (the Brazilian Organization for Agricultural Research) had committed to helping transfer technology to Guyana for the agriculture sector.
Jagdeo stated that during his trip “several individuals” said they are interested in cultivating soya bean, rice and cassava. He said they are also interested in boosting the breeding stock of cattle and small ruminants in the Rupununi.
Additionally, the President lauded the recent commitments the Federal Government of Brazil made to assist Guyana with key projects. Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, at the commissioning of the Takutu Bridge on Monday last, pledged his government’s support to help Guyana pave the road from Lethem to Linden as well as build an 800-megawatt hydropower plant.
Jagdeo also told the media that a team from Brazil will hold discussions with local officials about financing modalities today. “And …early in October, another team led by some ministers of Brazil will come here hopefully, to advance the discussions,” he added.
Jagdeo also pointed out that the plan is to take immediate steps to advance these projects. He said the projects are vital to the country and could transform its economy.
