Agri-technology in Guyana: Hydroponic Production Systems in Development

The Ministry of Agriculture and Israeli company Karlico Inc. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the investment of a large-scale hydroponics project. With climate vulnerability as a major concern over the social and environmental standards of Guyana, climate adaptability has urged agro-producers and stakeholders to consider alternative agricultural practices, particularly hydroponics, where plants are grown in any sediment other than an inert medium, such as sand, gravel or liquid. This type of smart agriculture is becoming popular in agri-technology measures in Guyana. With Israeli investors showing specific interest in the hydroponics initiative, Karlico Inc. and the Ministry are expected to commence their hydroponics project at the ongoing shade house construction on the East Coast of Demerara, worth USD $15 750 000 in the three-phase system. The incorporation of nutrient film techniques and soilless production systems will facilitate the growth of leafy greens, herbs and perishables. During the course of the project, Guyana’s agri technology sector will benefit from the construction of a 2000 sq.m., modern hydroponic system equipped with most appreciable, a packaging facility, harvesting equipment, irrigation controllers, fertiliser mixers, water recycling system, and emergency water storage. Thereon, a greenhouse system, and a regional distribution centre on par with the USDA and European Food Safety Authority standards and regulations will be constructed. With this invaluable foreign direct investment, it is anticipated that the regional food import bill to which the target of 25% by 2025 reduction, is met.

Source(Image: Minister Zulfikar Mustapha along with a representative from Karlico Inc. and others, Ministry of Agriculture Press Release )

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1 Dec 2022 15:45 | by anaraine