In a decisive move to secure the livelihood of farmers and reinforce food security in Guyana, the Government has reversed land rental and drainage and irrigation (D&I) charges across Region 5 (Mahaica–Berbice). This targeted relief, benefitting thousands of small and large-scale farmers in agricultural hubs such as Bush Lot, Blairmont, and Onverwagt, is a significant step toward fostering a resilient and productive rural economy.

The reversal of these charges is more than a fiscal adjustment—it is a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to its agricultural communities. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, land rent rates for leasehold farmlands and D&I fees were originally increased under the previous administration, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and increased production costs for farmers. Since 2020, the current government has not only reinstated the original, lower rates but has also, in many cases, completely reversed the fees—saving farmers millions of dollars collectively.

Farmers across Region 5, which forms a critical belt of rice and cash crop cultivation, have expressed relief at the reduced financial burden. In communities like Bush Lot and Blairmont, where rice milling and fieldwork dominate daily life, these changes are making tangible differences.

“Before the reversals, it was difficult to balance the cost of inputs with these rising charges. Now, more of our revenue stays with us, allowing reinvestment in better seeds and equipment,” shared one rice farmer from Blairmont.

The broader implications of this measure extend beyond individual farms. By lowering costs, the government is enabling farmers to expand operations, maintain consistent output, and ultimately contribute to national food sustainability. The policy also aligns with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, which recognizes agriculture as a core component of a diversified and climate-resilient economy.

In a country where nearly 30% of the population is directly or indirectly linked to agriculture, such interventions are not merely economic—they are social safeguards. This initiative underscores that good governance isn’t just about enacting policies, but ensuring those policies translate into real improvements for people on the ground.

By restoring fairness in land management costs and empowering those who cultivate the nation’s food, the Government of Guyana has made a strong case that agricultural development begins with protecting the farmer. This is what real progress looks like.