Gov’t commences distribution of relief grant to fisherfolk

On Friday, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha spearheaded the distribution of relief grants to fisherfolk from the Essequibo Coast, fulfilling another commitment made by His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, to provide direct support to those operating within the fisheries sector.

A total of 570 fisherfolk from Pomeroon–Supenaam each received a cheque for $150,000, representing a government investment of $85.5 million.

While addressing the gathering, Minister Mustapha urged fisherfolk to fully embrace the opportunities being created by the Government.

“As fisherfolk, you should take up all of the opportunities that are being created by this government. Many of you here are plying your trade in the ocean, and sometimes that is the only activity that you are doing. We have to change our mindset and the way we do things if we want to develop this industry. We want to diversify the fishing industry,” he said.

The Minister further highlighted the scale of transformation that has taken place across the productive sectors over the last five years, noting that fisheries must also adapt to global realities.

“From 2020 to 2025, we’ve seen a massive transformation in all the sectors. While you are fisherfolk and concentrate on your trade, we have to look to diversify. As a government, we will ensure that we develop the kinds of opportunities for you to earn. Across the world, marine catches are depleting because of rising temperatures and climate change, and fisherfolk are diversifying to sustain their livelihoods. You must do the same. As I said before, the government will work with you on this,” Minister Mustapha said.

Minister Mustapha also pointed to the Government’s investments in aquaculture as a key pillar of diversification, referencing the cage fishing projects at Mainstay and Capoey.

“When President Ali spoke about the commencement of this project, people were laughing. Now, today, this project is producing a lot of tambaqui, earning millions of dollars and developing village economies,” he noted.

He added that the administration is now moving to expand these initiatives while strengthening institutional capacity.

“We are now looking to expand that project. We are also breeding species. Right at Anna Regina, monies are being expended to rehabilitate the centre to carry out the breeding of various species,” the Minister said.

Over the years, significant investments have been made to rehabilitate and upgrade fishing landing sites across the country, improving safety, storage, and access to markets. Additionally, vessel monitoring and safety equipment have been procured to enhance oversight, promote sustainable fishing practices, and protect lives at sea.

President Ali has consistently maintained that these interventions are designed to ensure fisherfolk are better equipped, more resilient, and able to earn sustainable livelihoods, particularly in the face of climate change (Ministry of Agriculture press release)