Pres. Ali promises stronger, modern sugar industry to protect jobs, communities

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has pledged continued support for Guyana’s sugar industry, saying the government is investing heavily in modernisation and technology to secure jobs, strengthen rural communities and ensure the industry’s long-term future.

Speaking at the 78th commemoration of the Enmore Martyrs on Tuesday, President Ali said sugar remains a lifeline for thousands of Guyanese families and communities, making its survival and growth a national priority.

While acknowledging ongoing challenges within the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), the President made it clear that the government expects better performance and greater accountability from the industry.

“I am not pleased with the failure of the corporation to consistently achieve the production target,” he said, adding that he has repeatedly called for improved efficiency and stronger results.

The President stressed, however, that the government’s commitment to the industry remains unwavering. He said significant investments are being made to modernise operations and tackle one of the sector’s biggest challenges — a shortage of labour.

As fewer young people choose cane-cutting as a career, GuySuCo is increasingly turning to machinery and technology to maintain production. According to President Ali, about 44 per cent of the corporation’s lands have already been converted for mechanical harvesting.

“We know there is an acute shortage of labour. We know that many sugar workers do not want their children to engage in the task of cane cutting. That is why mechanisation is no longer optional. It is necessary,” he stated.

Beyond harvesting, the industry is also embracing modern technologies such as drones to monitor crops and assist with the application of fertilisers and chemicals. The government believes these innovations will help improve productivity while lowering costs.

President Ali said efforts are also underway to modernise sugar factories and expand value-added production, creating new opportunities for growth and making the industry more competitive.

Importantly, he noted that the future of sugar affects far more than those employed directly by the estates.

“Sugar does not only support sugar workers. Sugar supports the entire community, the markets, the stores. It supports an entire ecosystem,” the President said.

For generations, sugar has been the economic backbone of many rural communities, supporting businesses, transportation providers, vendors and countless families. The President said protecting the industry therefore means protecting livelihoods across the country.

Looking ahead, the government plans to continue exploring new investments, technologies and production methods aimed at reducing costs while opening up new opportunities within the sector.

“The modernisation of the sugar industry is necessary for its survival, resilience and sustainability,” President Ali declared.

His remarks came as Guyanese gathered to honour the Enmore Martyrs, whose sacrifice remains a powerful symbol of the struggles and contributions of sugar workers throughout the country’s history. DPI

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