$230M in equipment handed over to Region One to boost agri sector

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, today travelled to Kumaka, Region One, where he commissioned a pontoon and two excavators valued at approximately $230 million, as the Government continues to strengthen its capacity to execute critical agricultural and waterway works across the region.

Minister Mustapha said the equipment represents another commitment fulfilled following requests made by residents during previous outreaches conducted by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and himself.

“When the President and I came here, you made these requests. Today, this is what development looks like; when a government listens and delivers. The difference between talking about development and delivering development is the tangible results, such as the equipment we are here to commission,” the Minister said.

Two tractors were also handed over to the villages of Manawarin-Arawansa and Burahara to support agricultural and community development.

The Minister said the investments form part of the Government’s programme to restore and expand Region One’s productive capacity, with the region identified in the national agriculture plan as a major area for spice production.

Minister Mustapha also called for greater youth participation in agriculture, noting that he has asked the Regional Chairman to encourage more young people to enter the sector. He said the Government is prepared to support interested youths, including opportunities to further their studies beyond the secondary level.

As part of efforts to strengthen agricultural education in the region, the Minister also announced that within one month, a pair of cattle, a pair of swine and 300 broilers will be provided to support the practical component of CSEC Agricultural Science studies at the school.

Minister Mustapha encouraged residents, farmers and regional officials to continue working together as the Government rolls out additional programmes and investments aimed at restoring Region One’s productive strengths and expanding opportunities within the agriculture sector.