Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud says a number of initiatives are being implemented to revitalise the coconut industry and as such he urged farmers to expand cultivation to create employment.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release the minister and a team attended an exhibition hosted by coconut farmers at the Agriculture Extension Training Centre at Charity, Region Two. The exhibition showcased efforts farmers were making in enhancing their produce and formed part of the activities for Agriculture Month.
Persaud reminded farmers to always think of their crop as a primary component which can be used as a base for other products. At a workshop in August to address revitalizing the industry, the ministry had indicated that Guyana was pursuing support from India, and several South American countries to boost these efforts, particularly to obtain new varieties. It also said that two new coconut nurseries would be established at the Hope estate, East Coast Demerara.
In his address at the exhibition, the minister noted that Guyana has since been able to create an international demand for coconuts. “Today there is a renewed interest for the demand of coconuts because of government’s intervention in the revitalization of the industry,” he said. Since the start of the year 4,286 tonnes of coconut were exported to Trinidad and Tobago and the Dominican Republic.
There are currently 24,000 hectares of coconuts countrywide and according to Persaud; more can be done to expand the industry. “We can get more out of this industry but because of the abandonment of some estate owners there is a reduction,” he said, adding that government aims to revive the industry and create jobs. The need for a better drainage system was highlighted and to address this, a committee was established to provide support.
Director of the National Agricultural Research Institute, Dr Oudho Homenauth also said revitalising the industry is important for agriculture diversification. He noted that recently a forum was held aimed at establishing strategies to do so and they have so far proved successful. He also said the industry could thrive if maintained as it has the capacity to withstand flooding and drought to some extent though pest management may pose some problems.
Additionally, Chief Crops and Livestock Officer Brian Sears reminded farmers of basic plant health activities. He said that there have not been many reported cases of plant health issues but recently the problem with caterpillars had surfaced and was addressed.
GINA said General Manager of the New Guyana Marketing Corporation Nizam Hassan also briefed farmers on marketing opportunities and encouraged them to get involved in the committee which will ensure good business ethics and create more market opportunities.
