PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – Agriculture Minister Kazim Hosein says he is pleased with the rice revitalization program, saying the initiative showcases Trinidad and Tobago’s dedication to elevating local production and securing its nation’s food sovereignty.
Agriculture Minister Kazim Hosein, left, in discussions with rice farmers (Photo Ministry of Agriculture)“The achievements in this revitalization project are a testament to the power of collaboration and strategic planning. The unwavering commitment demonstrated by our regional partners, stakeholders, and the government sets a new standard for operational excellence,” he said, following a tour of several sites under the country’s rice industry revitalization project
Last year, the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) distributed approximately 200,000 lbs of high-yielding, disease-resistant rice seeds to 30 farmers. The seeds were purchased from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and forms a part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the the two countries signed in July 2022.
Hosein praised the initiative as a testament to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states’ commitment to reducing the food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.
“Our counterparts in Guyana, under the leadership of (Agriculture Minister) Zulfikar Mustapha, are continuing to work with us. This initiative would not have come about had it not been for the commitment of Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley, and his discussions with the President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali,” he added.
Technical Advisor to the Ministry, Nigel Grimes,explained that the project is guided by two principles: innovation and efficiency.
“From careful seed procurement to the implementation of cutting-edge farming techniques, every aspect of this project reflects our unwavering commitment to raising local production standards,” he said.
Local farmers say the initiative is a welcomed boost to the sector.
“The contracts from National Flour Mills, the refurbishment and repairs of the Rice Harvester, and the ongoing training sessions are transformative for us. It’s a significant step towards food security, and we take immense pride in being part of it,” said farmer , Jamil Akaloo.
Another farmer, Amir Hosein, said the outlook for increased production has brought a renewed sense of optimism to the community.
“This project is not just about rice; it’s about building a sustainable future for Trinidad and Tobago,” he said.
