With $1.5 billion allocated to fisheries development this year, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha says scientific research must help determine where investments can deliver the greatest benefits while safeguarding fish stocks and livelihoods.
Addressing the Fisheries Department’s second annual Fisheries Research Symposium at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus on Wednesday, Mustapha said expanding production must be supported by sound information on aquatic habitats, suitable aquaculture systems and ways to reduce losses.
The 2026 allocation supports infrastructure, monitoring and aquaculture development, with benefits extending to fish vendors, processors, transport operators and other businesses.
“Our responsibility is to strengthen the entire fisheries value chain so that more of the wealth generated by this investment remains in Guyana and contributes to national development,” he said.
Mustapha urged researchers to examine how developments in the sector affect household earnings, employment and food security, including opportunities for women and young people.
He stressed that research should offer practical solutions to the challenges facing fishing communities and help identify where further spending would have the greatest impact.
Although higher production remains a priority, the minister cautioned that gains would not be sustainable if they came at the expense of fish populations, habitats or water quality.
The symposium was held under the theme, “From Knowledge to Action: Building Resilient Fisheries to Protect Food Security in Guyana.”
