‘Bigger, better’ results expected as MoU signed to boost honey production

“As we seek to transform the regional agri food system towards food commercialisation, improve the sustainability of the agriculture sector in the region and reduce the region’s high food import bill, we are developing cooperation with countries that have some of the best agriculture practices and Cuba is one such country,” Ramraj said.

He added, “Guyana’s forest has great potential for apiculture. If exploited, it can create employment and sustainable income for the population residing in the hinterland area…and will allow for the increase of the production of honey to meet the 25 by 2025 initiative allowing Guyana to become an exporter of honey in CARICOM.”

According to Ramraj, the agreement will allow for mutual projects including urban and sub urban agriculture, genetic improvement and seed production of rice and other grains, advice on plant health, safe and effective use of pesticide production and conservation in the use of biological products.

And to enhance this, Ramraj noted that “very soon” Guyana will be signing a technical assistance agreement with Cuban company, CADEK, which will allow for technical assistance for bee keepers, advice on monitoring bee population, trained veterinary technician in the branch of bee keeping, identifying diseases of bee and necessary treatment which will boost the honey industry in Guyana.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Luis said the agreement is a clear indication of the expansion of ties between the two countries.

“We believe this is a very important step towards achieving greater food security, food production,” he said.

He added, “Guyana has a main goal, in CARICOM in the area of food security and production and Cuba is part of that effort. So, we are making our contribution in that area.”

According to the Ambassador, Cuba looks forward to the beginning the “new chapter” to achieve “bigger and better” results.

“We will work with the Ministry of Agriculture in Guyana to bring about technical services and to showcase opportunities also in the area of business and production. So, we can join forces with Guyana in order to achieve these outcomes,” he said.