By Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News|
— In a major move to modernize Guyana’s food production, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha announced that the ministry is set to launch a new digital application, “Farming in the Palm,” by March 2026. Speaking on the Starting Point podcast, the Minister explained that the app is a cornerstone of the government’s broader strategy to transition from traditional farming to a data-driven, resilient agricultural sector.
The initiative aims to put essential technical information and market intelligence directly into the hands of farmers, fishers, and investors nationwide.
Digital Tools for Precision Farming
The “Farming in the Palm” app is designed to eliminate guesswork for local producers by providing real-time data localized to their specific administrative regions.
- Smart Soil Mapping: In collaboration with NAREI, the app will feature detailed soil maps. Users can search specific areas, such as Black Bush Polder or Linden, to receive guidance on which crops are best suited for the local soil.+1
- Live Weather Integration: To mitigate the risks of climate change, the app will provide updated weather forecasts, allowing farmers to plan planting and harvesting cycles with greater accuracy.
- Targeted Investment: For investors, the platform will offer data on market potential and crop demand, helping them determine what to invest in and where to achieve maximum benefits.
A Regional Data Powerhouse: 75% Complete
Beyond the mobile application, the Ministry is spearheading the construction of a Regional Agricultural Data Center and Situation Room in Georgetown.
- Caribbean Hub: Currently 75% completed, the facility is expected to be commissioned by President Dr. Irfaan Ali in March.
- One-Stop Data Shop: The center will serve as a central repository for agricultural information not only for Guyana but for the entire CARICOM region.
- Inspiration: Minister Mustapha noted the concept was inspired by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) model in Costa Rica.
Modernizing the Fisheries Sector
The digitization drive also extends to Guyana’s waters. The Minister revealed that a Digital Fisherfolk Market will also be launched by the end of March to help fishers find better prices for their catch.+1
Key Digital Initiatives in Fisheries:
- Vessel Tracking: Over 500 fishing boats are now equipped with tracking devices for safety and activity monitoring.
- Infrastructure Database: The app will eventually include a comprehensive list of all landing sites and wharves nationwide.
- Cultural Shift: Minister Mustapha acknowledged that some in the sector are slow to embrace tech, stating, “We want to change that culture… we want to change that concept.”
Investment and Collaboration
The 2026 National Budget has allocated significant resources—part of a record $113.2 billion for agriculture—to ensure these digital platforms are sustained. The projects are being pursued in partnership with international bodies, including IICA and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.+1
“The digitization of the sector aims to change the culture in agricultural production in Guyana, making the system modern and information easily ready,” Minister Mustapha concluded.
