MMA scheme supporting significant agricultural development

Georgetown, GINA, October 25, 2007.

Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) has recorded significant achievements in terms of agricultural development as a result of the Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) scheme and further efforts continue to be made to realise its potential for greater advancement.

            This was highlighted today at the MMA/ADA open-day held at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice held as part of Agriculture Month 2007 being celebrated under the theme ‘The Right to Food – A Reality in Guyana.’ The event was first held in 2004 and has since become an annual feature to allow farmers and other stakeholders to interact on agricultural issues as it relates to the MMA scheme.     

            Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud noted that the scheme has made significant contributions to the country’s agricultural development and there are many more opportunities for farmers.

            He pointed out that it is recognised that there are difficulties that must be addressed but while these are being reviewed it is necessary to focus on the achievements. One of the main challenges is maintenance of the secondary drainage and irrigation system which is the responsibility of farmers.

            Efforts to address this issue have resulted in a decision for the Authority to conduct maintenance in the interim. Recommendations have been made for rates to be increased. However, no definite position has been taken as yet since it has been observed that farmers have been severely affected by the effects of climate change and increase cost of input over recent months.

            The level of rate collection from farmers for upkeep of the scheme’s primary D&I system was highlighted as this figure is between 30 and 40 percent. As a result, Government has been required to allocate substantial amount of resources to ensure that the work is done so that farmers can continue their work although they have not paid for the services.

            Chairman of the MMA/ADA Rudolph Gajraj outlined the role and responsibility of the Authority which is to facilitate agricultural development in Region Five by providing and maintaining the necessary infrastructure.

            MMA/ADA’s General Manager Aubrey Charles updated the gathering on the activities undertaken in 2007 and the projects planned for 2008 including works to the Abary conservancy and primary drainage and irrigation system which form part of MMA Phase II.  Additionally, works are planned for the improvement of access and dams and construction of structures at various locations. Secondary D&I works such as the establishment of drains and canals will also be done in 2008.

            Projects for this year include empoldering more than 14, 000 acres of lands between the Mahaicony and Abary creeks and extension of the façade from Hyde Park to Guiana Grove along the right bank of the Mahaicony creek.

            Other improvements include rehabilitation and reconstruction of the primary D&I infrastructure in the Abary/Berbice area and repairs of the secondary system totalling approximately 90 miles.

            Vice-Chairman of the Guyana Rice Producers Association (GRPA) Hardat Ramnarine delivered a presentation on the importance of the MMA scheme to advancing production and helping to maintain and supply local and overseas market.

Distribution and transfer of land leases to several farmers and award of certificates to outstanding employees and farmers were included in the open-day session. There was also a mini-exhibition showcasing the various agricultural produce cultivated in the region.

            Various officials of the Ministry of Agriculture and different associated agencies were present at the event.

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