The amphibious excavator that was handed over to the Region Two administration on Wednesday
In a significant boost to the agricultural sector of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha handed over a $110 million amphibious excavator to the region on Wednesday.
At a simple handing-over ceremony at St Denys/Tapakuma community, Mustapha highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity in the region.
He said from 2020 to 2024, the Government has supplied eight more pieces of equipment bringing the total in the region to 20.
“We now have 20 pieces of government equipment in the region. This support has enabled us to cultivate approximately 32,000 acres of rice, even under the challenging El Niño conditions. This is a great achievement for Region Two,” the minister stated.
The minister emphasised the importance of the new excavator, urging farmers to utilise it effectively.
“Many times, we need to work in difficult terrains, especially in clearing waterways and canals to ensure a proper supply of fresh water. This excavator will eliminate the need for matting and work directly in the canals,” he explained.
Mustapha also mentioned plans to establish a management committee to ensure the efficient use of the machine across the Essequibo Coast. He further told the residents that had gathered that the equipment is an expensive but valuable investment for the people of Essequibo Coast.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva expressed her gratitude to the government and the ministry for the substantial investment.
“This equipment will greatly benefit the people of our region, especially the farmers…Despite challenges such as lengthy dry weather and floods, the support from the minister and president has helped us succeed in our farming endeavors,” De Silva remarked.
Also present at the handing over were Member of Parliament Juliet Coonjah, representatives from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), and other regional officials.
The commissioning of the excavator is expected to enhance agricultural activities by improving access and drainage, ultimately supporting the region’s farming community. (G14)
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