The Ministry of Agriculture categorically rejects the misleading assertions made by Opposition Leader Mohamed Azruddin regarding the Drainage and Irrigation (D&I) Project at Abary Creek.

The attempt to portray this transformational project as a threat to the livelihoods of rice and cattle farmers is not supported by the facts, the project’s feasibility assessment, or the Government’s longstanding commitment to expanding agricultural production and improving the livelihoods of farmers.

The Abary Creek project forms part of the Government’s broader programme to modernise Guyana’s D&I infrastructure and unlock new areas for agricultural production. The works include high-level embankments, internal drainage and collector canals, a high-level canal, bridges, culverts, and both high-level and regular sluices.

Far from undermining agriculture, the project is designed to expand productive capacity, strengthen climate resilience and improve water management. According to the project’s feasibility assessment, approximately 55,281.97 acres from Mahaica to Abary are expected to gain access to improved D&I infrastructure, benefiting rice and cattle farmers and supporting increased agricultural production.

The feasibility assessment further estimates a significant economic benefit from the project, including a net annual gain of more than G$1.595 billion in Region Five and more than G$3.85 billion across Regions Three and Six. It also identifies approximately 300 farmers in the Abary area who are expected to benefit directly.

These are not abstract figures. They represent real opportunities for farmers, increased productive capacity, improved resilience to flooding and water-management challenges, and stronger food security for Guyana.

The Ministry also wishes to make clear that the works are being undertaken as public works in accordance with the applicable legal framework. Consultations and negotiations with affected landowners and occupiers have been ongoing since April 2022, with the most recent engagement held on September 21, 2026. These consultations remain ongoing and will continue in accordance with the law.

It is therefore inaccurate to suggest that the Government is acting without regard for affected citizens or farmers. The Ministry has been engaging stakeholders while advancing a project that is intended to deliver long-term benefits to agricultural communities.

The Government’s record speaks for itself. Since taking office in 2020, significant investments have been made in drainage and irrigation, agricultural infrastructure, production, climate resilience and farmer support. Agriculture remains a central pillar of Guyana’s development strategy because it creates employment, supports rural communities, strengthens food security and contributes to national economic growth.

The Ministry of Agriculture will continue to pursue projects that expand agricultural opportunities and improve the conditions under which farmers operate. We will not allow misinformation or political misrepresentation to obscure the facts or undermine initiatives that are designed to benefit farmers and communities across Guyana.