Guyana building integrated agri-food economy – Pres. Ali 

See full statement from President Dr Irfaan Ali on the ocassion of World Food Day 2026:

I am pleased to join the international community in observing World Food Day 2026. Food is more than a commodity; it is a fundamental human necessity.

Therefore ensuring that every person has access to sufficient, safe, nutritious and affordable food remains a shared responsibility. This requires not only increased production, but resilient, inclusive and sustainable food systems that benefit every household and community.

For Guyana, this commitment is reflected in our drive to modernise agriculture, strengthen food and nutrition security, and contribute to the Caribbean’s capacity to feed itself.

The 2026 theme of this year’s World Food Day: “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.”, reinforces our vision of a productive, technology-driven and competitive agricultural sector.

We are building an integrated agri-food economy that connects production with innovation, financing, storage, processing, transportation and marketing.

Our investments are yielding measurable results. The International Monetary Fund’s most recent report shows that Guyana’s agricultural sector has grown by an average of 10% annually since 2022, accounting for 6% of national GDP and 20% of non-oil GDP.
We intend to build on this progress by diversifying production across crops, livestock, fisheries, aquaculture and agro-processing, while strengthening traditional industries.

Our farmers remain central to this transformation. Through the Guyana Development Bank, financing is available to help farmers and agro-processors invest in machinery, land preparation, improved seeds, livestock, irrigation, storage and modern technology. By expanding production of rice, corn, soya, poultry and other priority commodities, while strengthening processing, packaging and cold-chain infrastructure, we intend to reduce import dependence, create livelihoods and improve the availability and affordability of nutritious food.

Our national efforts also serve a wider regional purpose. Through CARICOM’s food-security agenda, including the 25 by 2030 initiative, Guyana is helping to reduce the Caribbean’s reliance on imported food. Stronger trade links, harmonised standards, improved transportation and regional investment will be essential to building a more integrated and resilient Caribbean food system.

On this World Food Day, I call on our farmers, fishers, agro-processors, private-sector partners and all citizens to renew our collective commitment to food security.

Through innovation, investment and responsible stewardship of our resources, we can build a modern agricultural sector that expands opportunity, strengthens livelihoods and ensures that every family has access to safe, nutritious and affordable food.

Happy World Food Day!