ASSESSMENT OF AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION NEEDS CARIBBEAN (ACP) STATES FOR CTAS PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Country Study: Guyana

Final Report Prepared by:

Kelvin Craig

on behalf of the

Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA)

Project: 4-7-41-204-4/a

August 2005

Disclaimer This report has been commissioned by the CTA to enhance its monitoring of information needs in ACP countries. CTA does not guarantee the accuracy of data included in this report, nor does it accept responsibility for any use made thereof. The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of CTA. CTA reserves the right to select projects and recommendations that fall within its mandate.

ASSESSMENT OF AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION NEEDS CARIBBEAN (ACP) STATES FOR CTAS PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Country Study: Guyana

Final Report Prepared by:

Kelvin Craig

on behalf of the

Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA)

Project: 4-7-41-204-4/a

August 2005

List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

ABC ACP AVRDC CARICOM CARDI CARESDA CARIBCAN CBI CCDO CD CDB CIDA CTA CTCS CU CXC EEZ EIB EMBRAPA EU FAO GDP GDDP GFC GEM GLCS GNBS GOG GuySuCo HOP ICM ICT IDB IFAD IICA ICRISAT IIMI IPED IPM ISP IT LAN MFCL MOA MOFTIC NAFTA Brazilian Cooperation Agency African, Caribbean and Pacific Asian Vegetable Research and Development Centre Caribbean Community Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute Central American and Caribbean Research and Development Associates CARICOM- CANADA Caribbean Basin Initiative Chief Cooperatives Development Officer Cooperatives Division Caribbean Development Bank Canadian International Development Agency Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation Caribbean Technological Consultancy Service Credit Union Caribbean examination Council Exclusive Economic Zone European Investment Bank Brazilian Agricultural Research Agency European Union Food and Agriculture Organization Gross Domestic Product Guyana Dairy Development Project Guyana Forestry Commission Guyana Entertainment Magazine Guyana Living Conditions Survey Guyana National Bureau of Statistics Government of Guyana Guyana Sugar Corporation Heart of Palm Information and Communication Management Information and Communication Technologies Inter-American Development Bank International Fund for Agricultural Development Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture International Crops Research Institute of Semi-Arid Tropics International Irrigation Management Institute Institute of Private Enterprise Development Integrated Pest Management Internet Service Provider Information Technology Local Area Network Ministry of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock Ministry of Agriculture Ministry of Foreign Trade and International Economic Cooperation North American Free Trade Area

NARI NDDP NDS New GMC NCFA NGO NTC P&CS PPP/C PRCSSP PRSP RCDO RBCSTC SBA SEBRAE SME SMS SPS UG UNDP HDR USAID USDA WTO

National Agricultural Research Institute National Dairy Development Programme National Development Strategy Guyana Marketing Corporation National Cattle Farmers Association Non Governmental Organization Non-Traditional Commodities Planning and Corporate Services Peoples Progressive Party / Civic Poor Rural Communities Support Services Project Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper Regional Cooperative Development Officer Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre School Based Assessments Servicio Brasiliero de Aprovo as Micro e Pequenas Empresas Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Short Message Service Sanitary and Phytosanitary University of Guyana United Nations Development Programme, Human Development Report United States Agency for International Development United States Department of Agriculture World Trade Organization

Exchange rates [April- May 2005} Euro 1.00 = US$1.29636 Euro 1.00 = G$260.00 US$1.00 = G$200.00

ii

Table of Contents
Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................................................iv 1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................. 1 2. COUNTRY PROFILE ........................................................................................................................................... 2 2.1 Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry ..................................................................................................................... 3 2.1.1 Agriculture .................................................................................................................................................... 3 2.1.2 Fisheries ....................................................................................................................................................... 4 2.1.3 Forestry ........................................................................................................................................................ 4 2.2 Information and Communication Management Capacity .................................................................................... 4 2.3 Agricultural Information Services ....................................................................................................................... 6 3. NEEDS ANALYSIS.............................................................................................................................................. 7 3.1 Information Needs ............................................................................................................................................... 7 3.2 Capacity-building Needs ..................................................................................................................................... 9 4. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................. 12 4.1 Conclusions ....................................................................................................................................................... 12 4.1.1 Extent of Key Problems in the Field......................................................................................................... 12 4.1.2 Information Needs ...................................................................................................................................... 15 4.1.3 Capacity-building Needs............................................................................................................................. 16 4.1.4 Potential Partners and Beneficiaries .......................................................................................................... 16 4.2 Recommendations ......................................................................................................................................... 17 4.2.1 Information Needs ...................................................................................................................................... 17 4.2.2 Capacity-building Needs............................................................................................................................. 18 4.2.3 Potential Partners and Beneficiaries .......................................................................................................... 18 ANNEXES .................................................................................................................................................................. 32 ANNEX I. TERMS OF REFERENCE ........................................................................................................................ 33 ANNEX II COUNTRY PROFILE [GUYANA] ...................................................................................................... 38 II.1 General Agricultural Profile.............................................................................................................................. 39 II.2 Socio-Economic Profile .................................................................................................................................... 54 II.3 Media and Telecommunications ....................................................................................................................... 58 ANNEX III. PROFILE OF INSTITUTIONS .............................................................................................................. 61 III.1 List of Institutions Involved In Agriculture And Rural Development ............................................................. 61 III.2 Select List of Key Institutions ......................................................................................................................... 81 ANNEX IV. LIST OF PERSONS CONTACTED / INTERVIEWED...................................................................... 102 ANNEX V. REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................. 104

iii

Executive Summary
In an effort to improve the competitive position of domestic output, Guyana and the rest of the countries in the Region have taken several initiatives at the regional and country levels. These have included privatization, liberalization of the foreign exchange regime, liberalization of trade and financial reforms. However, despite the initiatives, one of the major remaining constraints is the inadequacy of information in the agricultural sector. Several regional and sub-regional initiatives have sought to address the gaps but much more remains to be done. In the case of Guyana specifically, the large land mass and the cost of transportation and communication pose unique difficulties which need to be surmounted if success is to be achieved. Objectives In an attempt to address some of the inadequacies, the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) has embarked on the assessment of agricultural information needs in the Caribbean. The objectives of the study are: to identify agricultural information needs of key actors / beneficiaries for CTA products and services; to identify needs of potential actors / beneficiaries of CTA activities and services in terms of building capacity for information and communication management; to identify potential partners / beneficiaries for CTA activities and services; and to develop some baseline data to facilitate subsequent monitoring activities. Methodology This study utilized a desk review of available literature and information sources, face-to-face interviews with relevant stakeholders / concerned parties and the limited use of questionnaires in order to obtain the required information. Expected results Expected results will assist the three operational departments of the CTA and its local representatives to improve and better target interventions and activities aimed at potential partners and beneficiaries. In addition the results should inform CTA of Guyanas information needs and any specific needs for CTAs products and services. This information will assist CTA in improving delivery of its products and services to target groups. Conclusions It is concluded that the generally known and previously identified key problems of African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries, discussed in the CTA draft programme of activities, are mostly applicable to Guyana. The study determined a need for technical, economic and general information. The major information needs that are not satisfied (meaning that the information acquired was inadequate), and common to all stakeholders, include accurate domestic production statistics (crops and livestock) for secondary (nontraditional) agricultural commodities, statistics on the farming population as well as estimates of supply and demand of produce. In addition, the study identified information needs that are not satisfied which are specific to the key institutions. All five key institutions expressed a need for training in the application of communication technologies as well as in the management of information within the organization. In addition, the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) and the Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) were interested in report writing and editing. The Cooperatives Division (CD) had a specific need to train staff in cooperative development and in computer usage and literacy and in addition, training for members of cooperative

iv

societies geared to make cooperative societies and associations in general more successful. NARI has also expressed a need for training / exposure in photography and miscellaneous audio-visual equipment and in library management. Recommendations A number of recommendations are presented in Section 4.2. These are based on the objectives of the study and the conclusions addressed in Section 4.1. They are presented within the framework of CTAs three operational departments. With respect to the information products and services category, it is recommended that Guyana urgently increases the availability of information as well as improves the awareness of sources of information. While the recommendations are based on the analysis of five agencies, they are considered representative of the needs of stakeholders in general. It is further recommended that mechanisms be put into place to supply the identified technical, economic and general information; that better electronic products should be developed and that the range of electronic products offered be increased; that distribution mechanisms for printed and electronic data and information be increased and that notwithstanding the importance of the InternetInternet, there should be an increased use of printed information such as one page summaries, leaflets and newsletters. With respect to the communication channels and services category, it is strongly recommended that the number of communication channels be increased; that the Communication Unit of the Extension Division of the MFCL should be re-established or alternatively that NARIs Communication and Information Unit be reoriented with a strong link with the Extension Division of the MFCL to provide these services. In relation to the information and communication management skills and systems operational programme, recommended capacity-building needs include: training in the application of communication technologies as well as in the management of information within organizations; training in report writing and editing; training / exposure in digital microscopic photography (for the documentation of entomological and biotechnological work.) and miscellaneous audio-visual equipment and in library management; coaching in the areas of storage, analysis and consolidation of data and information for dissemination to specified target groups and in the utilization of teleconferencing facilities; and ongoing training and exposure opportunities to support the establishment of LANs and webpages and the preparation and dissemination of posters, brochures, newsletters, one page summaries and newspaper, radio and television programmes. At the macro-level, it is recommended that Guyanas agricultural sector pursues the establishment an effective ICM system based on conventional as well as electronic communication channels. CTA should be a leading partner in this development. Institutions recommended for consideration as CTA partners are NARI, New GMC and Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED). Reasons for proposing them include: the strong presence of women, youth and resource-poor farmers among their past, present and potential beneficiaries; their programmes and activities are complementary with CTAs programmes; and the fact that they have the capacity to make in-kind financial and/or technical contributions to the prospective ventures. CD and Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre (RBCSTC) have been identified as CTA beneficiaries.

1.

INTRODUCTION
1. The Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) was established in 1983 under the Lom Convention between the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States and the European Union (EU) Member States. Since 2000, it has operated within the framework of the ACP-EC Cotonou Agreement. (CTA 2003 Annual Report.) 2. CTAs tasks are to develop and provide services that improve access to information for agricultural and rural development, and to strengthen the capacity of ACP countries to produce, acquire, exchange and utilise information in this area. CTAs programmes are organised around three principal activities: providing an increasing range and quantity of information products and services and enhancing awareness of relevant information sources; supporting the integrated use of appropriate communication channels and intensifying contacts and information exchange (particularly intra-ACP); and developing ACP capacity to generate and manage agricultural information and to formulate information and communication management (ICM) strategies, including those relevant to science and technology. These activities take account of methodological developments in cross-cutting issues (gender, youth, information & communication technologies ICTs, and social capital), findings from impact assessments and evaluations of ongoing programmes as well as priority information themes for ACP agriculture. 3. In January 2002, CTAs Strategic Plan (2001-2005) was implemented and CTAs activities were distributed among three operational programme areas / departments:
4.

Information Products and Services Communication Channels and Services Information and Communication Management Skills and Systems

These operational departments are supported by Planning Corporate Services (P&CS) which is charged with the methodological underpinning of their work and monitoring the ACP environment in order to identify emerging issues and trends and make proposals for their translation into programmes and activities. This current project, entitled Assessment of the Agricultural Information Needs of ACP States, focuses on agricultural information needs of the Caribbean and therefore, falls within the mandate of the P&CS. This particular report identifies agricultural information needs and the need for building information and communication capacity in Guyana. The specific objectives of the study are: to identify agricultural information needs of key actors
/ beneficiaries for CTA products and services; to identify needs of potential actors / beneficiaries of CTA activities and services in terms of building capacity for information and communication management; to identify potential partners / beneficiaries for CTA activities and services; and to develop some baseline data to facilitate subsequent monitoring activities.

2.

COUNTRY PROFILE
5. Guyana is approximately 215,000 km2 in area. Of this, the land area is about 197,000 km2. There are three major geographical regions of the country: the coastal plain which comprises about 5% of land area but has about 90 % of population; the white sand belt, inland from the coastal plain with hardwood forest and mineral deposits; and the interior highlands, the largest and southernmost of the three regions which consists of mountains, high plateaus, and savannahs. The three geographical regions apart, Guyana has ten administrative regions all of which have varying levels of agricultural potential. 6. Guyanas total population was estimated at 721,831 in 1999. Of that number, 367,361 (51 %) persons were female and 354,470 (49 %) were male. In terms of age group structure of the population, the data shows that about 37 % of the population was 19 years or less while some 69 % of the population was under 40 years old. On a regional basis, Region 4 (approximately 41 %), Region 6 (approximately 20 %) and Region 3 (approximately 13 %) were the most populous. (Annex II, Tables 17 & 18). 7. Public expenditure on education as a %age of GDP increased from 3.4 % in 1990 to 4.1 % in 1999-2001. Similarly, public education as a %age of total government expenditure increased from 4.4 % to 8.6 %. It has also been observed that over the last two decades, electricity consumption per capita increased by more than 100 % while per capita carbon dioxide emissions decreased fractionally by 0.2 %. Adult literacy in Guyana has been more than 97 % over the last decade, while the net primary enrolment ratio and the net secondary enrolment ratio (2001-2002) were 98% and 75 % respectively. In addition, the United Nations Development Programme, Human Development Report (UNDP HDR) 2004, indicates that the life expectancy at birth was 63 years, that 87 % of Guyanas population had sustainable access to improved sanitation, 94 % sustainable access to improved water sources while 0.49 % sustainable access to affordable drugs. (Annex II, Table 21). 8. In terms of the occupational structure of the workforce, agriculture inclusive of forestry and fisheries has traditionally contributed about 30 % to the total labour force. In addition, the distribution of the population by socio-economic group shows that 30 % of the population was either self employed in agriculture or was engaged in manual or non-manual pursuits within the agricultural sector. (Annex II, Tables 4 & 5). 9. Major institutions within the agricultural sector include: the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), Ministry of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock (MFCL), Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), National Agriculture and Research Institute (NARI), GuySuCo, Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC). In addition there are thousands of private rice, sugarcane, other crop and livestock farmers and entrepreneurs in the areas of forestry, fisheries and agro processing. 10. Guyana has hundreds of cooperatives, associations, friendly societies, credit unions and school thrift societies. The government agencies and major Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) apart, Tables III.1.1-III.1.5 list more than 200 of the more active farmer groups, women groups, youth groups, fishermen societies and loggers associations that are involved in agricultural, rural development or related pursuits. Individually, most of the organizations are too weak to be able to organize for sustained activities but collectively they could be a force to be reckoned with. Even

the apex body, the Guyana National Cooperative Union has not yet evolved into a real leader of its flock.

2.1
2.1.1

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Agriculture

11. Agriculture inclusive of forestry and fisheries has traditionally contributed about 30 % to the total labour force (Annex II, Table 4). In addition, the distribution of the population by socio-economic group shows that 30 % of the population was either self-employed in agriculture or was engaged in manual or non-manual pursuits within the agricultural sector (Annex II, Table 5). 12. The %age of males and females that was employed in agriculture (inclusive of hunting, forestry and fishing) was 36.2 and 17.1 (1992) respectively. Further in 1997, 60,481 persons comprising 48,668 males (80.5 %) and 11,813 females (19.5 %) were employed in agriculture, hunting and forestry while an additional 6,308 persons comprising 5,144 males (81.5 %) and 1,164 females (18.5 %) were employed in the fisheries sub-sector. There is no specific information on the number of youth involved in agricultural activities.

13. The most predominant farming systems are characterized by: large-scale and medium-scale highly mechanized rice and sugarcane farms, producing rice and sugar for both the domestic and export markets; small scale shifting cultivation (slash and burn) for staples such as cassava, eddoe, plantain, peas and beans, pineapples, peanuts etc for cash income and food security; and mixed crop or mixed crop / livestock production systems on medium and small farm holdings producing vegetables, ground provisions, tree crops as well as dual purpose cattle and / or small ruminants. 14. Total agricultural GDP at Constant Factor Prices (1988) was consistently over G$1,500 Million between 1997 and 2004. The sugar subsector consistently contributed over G$790 Million or more than 50 % of total Agricultural Sector GDP. The general trend has been one of a growing agricultural sector. In 2004 for example, agricultural GDP grew by 3.5 % while total GDP grew by 1.6 %. 15. Sugar is by far the most important agricultural subsector and has contributed no less than 15 % to total GDP between 1997 and 2004. Over the same period, rice accounted for about 3-4 % of GDP, livestock 2 %, other agriculture 5 % and fishing 3 %. Sugar and rice are therefore Guyanas primary agricultural commodities. Rice is the largest user of agricultural lands (80,000 Ha are regularly double cropped) as compared to sugar where Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) regularly cultivates about 40-50,000 Ha. 16. In 2004, 55 % of the total export volume of secondary products (4,651 Tonnes) went to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) destinations and the remaining 45 % to extra-regional markets (primarily France, USA and Canada). The major secondary commodities that were exported in 2004 were Heart of Palm (34 % of the total export volume), crude coconut oil (13 %), plantain (9 %) and mango and pineapple (4 % each). (Annex II, Table 15). 17. In 2004, almost 500,000 Tonnes of paddy with a rice equivalent of 326, 000 Tonnes were produced. Of the rice produced, 243,000 Tonnes (75 %) were exported. Over the last five years, sugar production was consistently more than 270,000 Tonnes per year while sugar exports were

consistently more than 250,000 Tonnes per year, reaching a high of approximately 312,000 Tonnes in 2003. In 2004, export volume was approximately 289,000 Tonnes. Exports have traditionally been between 80-90 % of production. (Annex II, Tables 13 & 14).
2.1.2 Fisheries

18. The fisheries sub-sector of Guyana comprises three primary components: marine fisheries, inland fisheries and aquaculture. Most of Guyanas fishing occurs in the relatively shallow waters of the continental shelf. The marine resources exploited within the Exclusive Economic Zone ( EEZ) are mainly the demersal fisheries resources and to a much more limited extent, the pelagic fish resources which are to be found both over the continental shelf and toward the continental slope. 19. The fisheries subsector has contributed no less than 8 % to total agricultural sector GDP over the last decade. In 2004, the contribution of the fisheries sub-sector to total agriculture GDP was 8.8 %. This compared to 56.1 % for sugar, 11.2 % for rice, 7.4 % for livestock and 16.6 % for other agriculture (Annex II, Table 7). In addition, the agriculture sector has on average, consistently contributed about 30 % to total GDP and of this total, the fisheries sub-sector has contributed about 3 % over the last decade. In 2004, while the contribution of the fisheries sub-sector to the total was 3 %, sugar contributed 18 %, rice 4 %, livestock 2 % and other agriculture 5 %. 20. Apart from the traditional hook and line and cast net fishing in Guyanas trenches and creeks, popular types of fishing, include trawling (shrimp, prawns and finfish) and pin sein, drift net and gill net fishing. It has already been mentioned in Section 2.1.1 that in 1997, 6,308 persons comprising 5,144 males (81.5 %) and 1,164 females (18.5 %) were employed in the fisheries subsector. However, a 1999 UNDP Common Country Assessment Report indicates that there were approximately 5,000 persons employed in the fisheries subsector.

2.1.3

Forestry

21. About 65,000 miles2 (168,000 km2) or more than 75 % of Guyanas total land area is forested. Almost 14 Million Ha of Guyanas total forests lie within the gazetted State Forest boundaries, where all commercial timber exploitation occurs. There have however, been excisions from this block of land for Amerindian communities, the Iwokrama Rain Forest Reserve and mining leases. The National Development Strategy (NDS) also notes that although many of the plant and animal species which abound in Guyanas forests are as yet unidentified, it is known that the forests are a most significant reservoir of biodiversity. 22. The forestry sector has over the 2000 2004 period contributed between 3.1 % 3.4 % to total GDP (Calculations based on Annex II, Table 6 and Bank of Guyana, Statistical Bulletin, December 2004). As a %age of total agriculture, forestry and fishing, the forestry sector has between the 2000 2004 period contributed no less than 9.2 % (2002) and a maximum of 10.7 % (2000). Sectoral employment is estimated at 15,500 according to UNDP 2001 Study on Forest Sector Financing in Guyana.

2.2

Information and Communication Management Capacity

23. Five key institutions; National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC), Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED), Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre (RBCSTC) and the Cooperatives Division (CD) of the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security have been identified. They were selected based on their specific roles, current and likely impact of the activities of the institutions on small-scale

farmers and the rural population in general and the geographic location of the institution in the case of RBCSTC. The willingness of the institutions to collaborate with CTA in providing requested data and information within the required time frame was also a factor 24. In terms of information and communication management capacity, NARI is perhaps the best endowed of the five identified key institutions. This is in terms of the physical space available, computer availability and Internet access, audiovisual equipment and number of staff in the information and communication section. NARI boasts the largest agricultural library in Guyana as a result of its wide collection of materials such as books, bulletins, journals and maps; some of which date back to the early colonial and pre-independence periods. NARI is clearly the leader in terms of the range of communication mechanisms that it uses to disseminate information. These include, radio and television programmes, newspaper articles, miscellaneous types of publications such as leaflets, brochures, reports, video cassettes and photographs. 25. Notwithstanding these positives, discussions with consumers / users of the information suggest that there is room for improvement in the quality of the output. The reasons are likely due to a combination of inadequate equipment, inadequate skills and the need for a more coordinated approach at the level of institutions within the sector and at the national level. On the issue of human resources, NARIs three key members of staff of the Information and Communication Unit function primarily based on experience and exposure to short training courses (some of which were CTA-sponsored) over the years. Additional training would therefore be a perquisite to taking the unit to the next level. 23. New GMC, which was established in 1985, has been largely successful at managing a database of wholesale and retail prices of secondary produce and a database on the volume and value of secondary produce exported to various destinations. With respect to the communication management capacity, there has been a retrogression of sorts as during the early 1990s the Corporation was disseminating price information through the newspapers, by radio and through various marketing outlets, in addition to publishing quarterly reports. While price series and all related information are available on demand from New GMC, routine dissemination has been reduced. New GMC is well endowed with computer hardware, Internet access and a functioning Local Area Network (LAN) and will soon have a website of its own. However, as discussed for NARI, there is a need for better trained staff. There is a need for a better vision of how the generated information could and will be used. 24. IPED has essentially used information generated to help inform the management of the Institute. IPED is the only key institution to have a Masters level professional functioning as a Management Information Officer. This person is responsible for the Loans Management Software. In the future by IPED would also like to use aspects of the information it generates to inform clients and would- be clients about the benefits of timely repayments; hence a need for more effective communication mechanisms. 25. The other two agencies, RBCSTC) and CD would need to be assisted to reorganize and to reorient their activities so as to acquire the capacity for information and communication management. 26. The RBCSTC is a small church based NGO located on the Corentyne Coast, about 120 miles out of Georgetown. It caters for women and young people in the area and in recent years has responded to the calls of the information age by providing training in computer literacy, computer repairs and by establishing an Internet caf. There is no other agency in the immediate area

providing the same type of service. RBCSTC has in the past been accountable and has used donor assistance wisely to meet specified objectives. 27. The CD is a relatively small government division. It is charged with monitoring and supervising hundreds of cooperative and friendly societies, credit unions and school thrift societies. Many of the rural folk have no other access to credit or services other than through a group that the CD overlooks. Assistance directly to youth, women and farmer groups throughout the country is impossible as they are mostly not very organized. Specific assistance to the CD focused at the hundreds of NGOs would be of benefit to all stakeholders.

2.3 Agricultural Information Services

28. The key institutions mentioned above, sourced agricultural information from organizations, publications as well as from electronic media. With respect to information sourced from organizations, the MFCL, MOA and NARI were most frequently mentioned as sources of information but because of the varied services provided by the key institutions identified, there were numerous other sources that were organization specific. These are as listed below. Institute of Private Enterprise Development Food and Drug Department of the Ministry of Health, Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, Caribbean Development Bank, input suppliers and an international research institute of Brazil known as SEBRAE. UNICEF CTA, IICA, CARDI, various universities, regional and international research institutions and input suppliers. Farmers associations and cooperatives, Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions, International Cooperative Alliance

Roadside Baptist Church National Agricultural Research Institute Cooperatives Division, Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security Guyana Marketing Corporation

Bank of Guyana, USDA, Caribbean Export Development Agency, Ministry of Foreign Trade, CARICOM Secretariat, Guyana Revenue Authority (Customs Department), Farmers Associations and individual farmers

29. The most frequently mentioned publications from which information was sourced were those from Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), MOA, Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI). The Internet was the most popular source of information from the electronic media category even though New GMC as a result of its marketing and trade orientation also obtained information via radio and television programmes, video presentations as well as posters. Other popular sources used by IPED, NARI, New GMC and the CD were fairs and exhibitions, consultants as well as colleagues.

3.

NEEDS ANALYSIS

3.1 Information Needs

30. In general all five agencies expressed a need for technical and economic information. NARI, New GMC, IPED and RBCSTC embraced a need for technical information such as: grading, packaging, storage, transportation, crop varieties, livestock species, sourcing of equipment (production, processing, plant nursery), waste utilization, integrated pest management and in the case of NARI and New GMC the production and marketing of organic produce. Table 1: Organizations from which Key Institutions Source Information Name of Key Institution Guyana Marketing Corporation Source Organization Caribbean Export Development Agency Ministry of Foreign Trade USDA CARICOM Ministry of Agriculture (Guyana, Barbados, St Lucia) Customs and Trade Administration Bank of Guyana Information Type Obtained Potential importers, export/ import data Trade regulations Phytosanitary regulations CARICOM agriculture production, trade statistics General agricultural statistical data Name of exporter, export volume of agricultural produce, destination of produce Exchange rates, export volume and value In general the various sources led to: human resource training information exchange partial funding information dissemination. Statistics on fish culture Access to technological consultants for IPED clients Training in aquaculture, cashew and cassava cultivation Collaboration is generally on information sharing, registration of societies, recognition / celebration of special days, planning, arbitration, auditing etc Advice on modifying legislation / rules of CUs Follow-up on legal issues relating to organizations

National Agricultural Research Institute

Institute of Private Enterprise Development

National agencies: PRCSSP Regional agencies: CARDI, UWI International agencies such as: FAO, CTA, ICRISAT, IIMI, AVRDC, IICA Aquaculture Station at Mon Repos CDB (CTCS Section) SEBRAE of Brazil Individual cooperative societies / farm associations, credit unions, school thrift societies Cooperative Division Regional Cooperative Development Officers (RCDOs) Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions International Cooperative Alliance

Cooperatives Division

Name of Key Institution

Source Organization Ministry of Agriculture and other such agencies Caribbean Agricultural Research and Teaching Associates Centre (CARTAC) Attorney Generals Office

Information Type Obtained

31. With respect to the economic information, New GMC, IPED and RBCSTC were interested in market related data, the identification of markets for their clients and commodity profiles, while NARI had specific interest in crop insurance systems and commodity profiles. In addition, IPED had interest in information on agro-processing and in non-agricultural information such as information on low cost building material, low cost building technologies, brick making and appropriate energy for the poor (pico hydro and vegetable oil as a substitute for diesel). 32. Further to the above, in terms of more general information, NARI expressed a need for information pertaining to conferences and meetings, farm problems such as why farmers choose to cultivate a fraction their total land or adapt portions of recommended technologies, international regulations and programs executed by agricultural networks. New GMC had interests in conferences and meetings, international regulations and trade fairs. 33. Given that the agencies perform different functions in keeping with their mandate, they generally sourced specific data and information from different agencies. For example, New GMC is interested in production data and timeliness of supply. NARI, as a research institute, has to relate to equivalent agencies and as a result sourced material from organizations such as International Crops Research Institute of Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), International Irrigation Management Institute (IIMI) and Asian Vegetable Research and Development Centre (AVRDC). Table 1 provides details on the source of information and data by organization. 34. At the level of the key institutions, sourcing information through publications for internal use was not very popular, particularly where soft copies were available. However, this was different in the case of RBCSTC which ran a library (mostly not on agriculture). In the case of NARI, hard copies were sent to the library and documentation centre for use by students, researchers and other persons. Even in these cases however, the demand for electronic material is overwhelming. 35. The use of printed material such as the IICA and CARDI booklets, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) trade and production journals and several miscellaneous research journals were very popular in the past but this has changed radically as a result of the electronic mail. 36. Notwithstanding the limited sourcing of printed information, all of the key institutions recognize its importance for dissemination purposes. Leaflets, one page summaries and newsletters were all known to be useful and this was recognized as a definite need for the dissemination of information to farmers and other potential users. 37. With respect to the use of electronic media, the Internet was the most popular medium. It was used by all of the key institutions, but mostly by NARI and New GMC as a result of their role. None of the agencies used the radio, television, or video presentations to source information routinely but NARI regularly used the newspapers, radio, television and posters to disseminate information.

38. Other sources of information for four of the key institutions (NARI, New GMC, IPED and CD) included fairs and exhibitions, colleagues and consultants. 39. Information needs are currently met through various national, regional and international sources. The sources included organizations, publications and electronic media. The agencies that were the source of data and information that were found to be common to all three more agriculturally oriented key institutions were the MOA/ MFCL, IICA, NARI, New GMC, Guyana National Bureau of Statistics (GNBS) and input suppliers. The key institutions got statistical data and general information in areas such as production, marketing and research from the source agencies. The major types of information needs that were not satisfied (and common to all stakeholders) included accurate domestic production statistics (crops and livestock) for secondary (non-traditional) agricultural commodities, statistics on the farming population, cost of production and cost of marketing data, domestic consumption statistics as well as estimates of supply and demand of produce. Information needs not satisfied but specific to the key institutions are detailed in Table 2 below.

Table 2: Key Institutions and their Main Information Needs not Satisfied Name of Organization Guyana Marketing Corporation National Agricultural Research Institute Institute of Private Enterprise Development Cooperatives Division Main information needs not satisfied Prices in overseas markets, Buyers information creditability, New buyers Post-harvest technology Fruit and vegetable processing Organic agriculture production, sustainable agriculture Trade and market information Cost of products Application of communication technologies Management of information within organization Training in various aspects of running successful cooperatives Technical information such as: pest and disease management, crop management, grading, packaging etc

Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc.

3.2

Capacity-building Needs

40. Four of the five key institutions listed (NARI, New GMC, IPED and CD) have ably identified their needs as they perceive them to be. There will be a need for rationalization of these needs and others from a national perspective. The challenge will be to continue to make these assessments over time once the gaps begin to be filled. In the case of RBCSTC, its needs have been identified as a result of discussions and interaction while completing the questionnaire. It is obvious that in the future, Guyana will need assistance to develop a strategic information policy to support work of these and other institutions as well as to monitor and to respond to the information needs of stakeholders.

41. Problems common to all agencies include: rapid staff turnover and as a result a need for ongoing retraining as well as inadequate financial and physical resources. Main problems related to ICM that are specific to the key institutions are listed in Table 3 below. Table 3: Main Problems of Information and Communication Management Faced by Key Institutions Name of Organization Guyana Marketing Corporation National Agricultural Research Institute Main Problems Related to Information and Communication Management Grading, packaging, transporting fresh agricultural produce by sea and the mix of produce in relation to temperature etc, Management of information within organization. Photography: There is a need to digitalize this department. Need for a digital microscopic camera for the documentation of entomological and biotechnological work. Audiovisual: analog equipment is used for television editing and filming. This equipment is no longer compatible with modern day audio visual equipment. Human resources: need for further training / exposure in the use of new equipment, preparation of public education, audio visual material, organizing information for website. Library: collection development, resources for the acquisition of updated materials have not generally been adequate over the years Other problems: storage, analysis and consolidation of data and information for dissemination to specified target groups, absence of teleconferencing facilities. Inadequate technical manpower Communicating the zero tolerance policy against late payments Identifying between functioning and non-functioning societies Determining the asset base of societies Selecting, collecting, storing, analysing and consolidating data and information of societies in a manner to allow for easy and timely analysis and dissemination Reorganizing the centre to best serve needs of community Expansion / reorganization of the Internet caf service to provide electronic technical information (agricultural - such as crop varieties, livestock species etc as well as non-agricultural), economic information (agricultural and non-agricultural). Reorganizing and retraining staff to manage information within organization

Institute of Private Enterprise Development Cooperatives Division

Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc.

42. All five agencies expressed a need for training in the application of communication technologies in their particular area of operation; as well as in the management of information within the organization. In addition, NARI and New GMC were interested in report writing and editing. The CD had a specific need in training for staff in cooperative development and training for members of cooperative societies. In addition, the CD does most of its work manually, (a single office desktop is non-functional) except for the Chief Cooperatives Development Officer (CCDO) who

10

uses his personal computer for Internet access. As a result, training of staff in computer usage and literacy would be a necessary requirement. 43. With respect to NARI specifically, this institute has the largest agricultural library in Guyana and an electronic database of its collection. NARI has a designated Information and Communication Unit that is responsible for among other activities: the operation of the LAN, updating the web page, the preparation of posters, brochures, newsletters and newspaper, radio and television programmes. The radio programme (NARI in Focus) and the newspaper feature are weekly, while the television programme (Agriculture Digest) is every two weeks. In addition, internally NARI maintains a LAN to which most of the computers are connected and Internet access is provided at each of these ports. 44. This level of activity in the domain of the provision of public information together with the goal of Internet ready ports for staff, suggest the need for a high consistent level of output from the respective departments and units within NARI and this could only be achieved with competent, motivated staff; thereby emphasising the need for ongoing training and exposure and the appropriate updating of equipment. 45. New GMC is a much smaller public sector institution that has a more focussed role. It has no specific Information Technology (IT) staff member but most of its staff is computer literate. In the case of RBCSTC, training would be required to reorganize and re-orient staff to manage new types and larger volumes of information within the organization. IPED on the other hand has a staff member who is responsible for information management and ICT use. IPED like NARI and New GMC has a LAN to facilitate communication among staff. 46. The need for retraining and reorientation would suggest a need for appropriately experienced staff at the RBCSTC and CD in particular and possibly at the New GMC as well. NARI and IPED have sufficiently experienced staff in place but as NARI moves to fill its existing mandate, additional trained staff would be required as the institute would need to cater not only for vacation leave and other forms of leave for staff as well as for emergencies. 47. Further to the above, it is obvious that improving the capacity of these institutions in the areas of information management would translate to a need for increased resources. NARI has already identified some equipment needs (Annex III). IPED, as a priority, needs a better software package that would allow interface between the various offices while the CD at the other end of the continuum would, as a start, require basic equipment. A specific equipment needs analysis by an expert in this area should form the basis of determining the ultimate needs.

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4.
4.1
4.1.1

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions
Extent of Key Problems in the Field Conclusions are discussed within the context of CTAs three operational programmes and the key problems which were previously identified as those pertaining to ACP countries, but with particular reference to the findings of this study on Guyana.

4.1.1.1 Information Products and Services Programme Limited availability of publications that support decision-making in the agricultural sector 48. In Guyana, the two major documents that point towards agricultural policy are the NDS and the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP). The NDS is essentially a broad policy framework for the development of Guyana. The PRSP is considered to be one of the outputs from the NDS. The PRSP focuses on reducing poverty and has a specific focus on measures designed specifically to address the needs of the poor and disadvantaged. However from the agricultural sector perspective, there is no recent agricultural development plan or agriculture sector strategy document. One would have thought that as a result of the importance of the agricultural sector that an agricultural plan would have been a foregone conclusion. Information on the various subsectors and programmes is therefore very fragmented and not easily retrievable. It is understood that the rice and sugar sub-sectors have their appropriate plans (these were not seen by the Consultant) and that a Strategy Paper is being developed for the secondary agricultural products. Shortage of relevant published information on agriculture and rural development, because of weak local publishing structure 49. Information that is already public information is not easily retrievable. It is not the view of the Consultant this is because of a weak local publishing structure (which is mentioned as a typical key problem) but more because of what may be best described as a culture of hiding information or of not making information accessible to others or of not recognizing the fact that public information is as the name suggests. This is regularly witnessed when on an annual basis, Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) students seek data for their School Based Assessments (SBAs) or University of Guyana (UG) students seek data and information for their projects. In addition, within the MOA and MFCL and related agricultural sector agencies, there is generally no budget or a just a very small budget (possibly associated with exhibitions) to cater for the preparation of various types of printed information. In general, information dissemination has not been a priority. Limited access to locally and externally published information on agriculture and rural development, due to weak distribution infrastructure 50. The NARI library is perhaps the most accessible. Several smaller libraries and documentation centres are either not easily accessible or contain very old, useless publications. Even where useful information is generated, in many cases it is not easily accessible. A case in point has already been referred to where information from New GMC is not disseminated as it should be. Similarly, results from work done by NARI scientists often take a very long time to become public information, if they ever do.

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Limited awareness of the existing local and external sources of information and the type of products and services available. 51. Except if one is in involved in the agricultural sector one would not know where to source specific kinds of information. The NARI website, www.agrinetguyana.org.gy was a useful one stop website for basic agriculture statistics, however, the respective webpages of many of the affiliated organisations have not been updated and after a three-four year period the information is primarily of historical value. It appears that the maintenance of the web pages is directly linked to the will of the respective agencies or to the presence or absence of a particular staff member of that particular agency. In searching for information, students and others are generally directed to the Internet but the Internet carries general global information and not many aspects of what is peculiar to Guyana. In the past, the MOA used to have leaflets and one page summaries of various kinds of information, but this is generally no longer the case. 4.1.1.2 Communication Channels and Services Limited contacts among ACP stakeholders and between the latter and experts from other countries and regions 52. Guyana has maintained contact with sister CARICOM countries in particular. Guyanese benefit from most regional conferences, particularly if they are externally funded. Over the years Guyana has deliberately sought to cultivate strategic linkages with other ACP states and with other countries where traditionally there were no links. Guyanas agricultural sector is currently benefiting from a number of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) experts (dairy production, entomology, agricultural economics) and in the past Guyana has had an input from Malaysia (oil palm production). For more than 15 years, Guyana has been fostering links with Brazil, that have today led to relationships with several research institutes, scientists, businessmen and others. Also in the dairy industry, through linkages and collaboration with IICA, Central American and Caribbean Research and Development Associates (CARESDA), Partners of the Americas (Partners) and the Government of Mexico, five dairy farmers were afforded the opportunity of a study tour to Mexico and Costa Rica in 2001. Weak networking services, such as newsletters, web sites, etc. 53. Discussions with the key institutions as documented in the previous sections verify that there is weak electronic networking among organizations. This is perhaps more due to the rather rudimentary nature of the use of the electronic form of communication among agencies rather than an unwillingness to communicate. Electronic networking apart, there is room for increased networking among personnel within the agricultural and affiliated sectors. Limited first-hand experience of pertinent developments in other countries and regions 54. In the case of Guyana, personnel from the key institutions are very aware of the developments in other countries and regions. Exposure through interaction at regional or international fora, or through personal trips has impacted positively on the general knowledge of the local personnel. Limited use of ICTs for networking and dialogue 55. The picture in Guyana is changing. Previous sections of this report refer to staff of NARI and New GMC having Internet access. NARI has had a website from around 2000 and has been using a LAN for communication. New GMC has recently set up a LAN and is in the process of establishing a website. It currently has a webpage on the NARI website. In the case of the MOA, MFCL the premiere institutions for agricultural development in Guyana, the use of ICTs for networking and dialogue is still severely lacking especially among staff of the Extension Service.

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Failure to take full advantage of opportunities for using radio, TV and other non-print media in communicating agricultural information and knowledge. 56. As indicated above, the use of printed media for the sharing of agricultural information and knowledge is still severely lacking. The use of broadcast media is minimal, as apart from NARIs products there is very little else. The Guyana Information News Agency (GINA) does a good job at rebroadcasting some of NARIs products and in their coverage of developmental issues around the country do capture aspects of agricultural development. 4.1.1.3 ICM skills and systems programme Lack of expertise in the area of ICM skills Limited opportunities to acquire relevant ICT skills Weak ICM policies and strategies Limited knowledge of the design of cost-effective and participatory ICM systems Limited management techniques for the implementation of ICM projects and services. 57. In the case of Guyana, all of the above listed problems related to the ICM skills and systems programme exist. There is what may be considered an emerging ICM policy at the national level even though it does not appear that at the level of the MOA/ MFCL that there are any specific strategies to use the available ICTs more efficiently. 58. An early reference to the role of Information Technology in Guyanas modernization came in the NDS, where it is listed as the fourth element of the developmental strategy. The PRSP recognizes the weak management information systems within government ministries and the understaffed GNBS and the make reference to the need for a coordinated approach between the GOG and the donor community in correcting the situation. 59. In addition, on the occasion of the launching of the Office of The Presidents Website, on May 21st, 2003, Information Liaison Officer to the President of Guyana observed that: The PPP/C Administration is firmly committed to a policy of public access to information on Governments policies, programmes and projects. No effort is spared in making access to information by the media and indeed the general public, freer and easier. This is one of the proud achievements of the PPP/C since 1992 which it continues to solidify. It is in that context the Office of the President introduces to the media, the Guyanese public and indeed the entire world wide users of the Internet, the official website of the Office of the President of Guyana. The web address is: www.op.gov.gy. The website is user friendly and caters for the information needs of the media; ordinary Guyanese who just want to be updated on activities and decisions of the Presidency; decision makers; students and; researchers. 60. Further, on the occasion of the opening of GUYEXPO 2004, on 24th September 2004 His Excellency Bharrat Jagdeo, President of Guyana stated: Despite huge difficulties, I continue to seek liberalization in the Information and Communications Technology industry. ICT represents a tremendous opportunity for Guyana. As well as the role it can play in improving productivity and creating new market access for existing

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businesses, our geographical location, use of the English language, and educated population are three strong competitive advantages which we have to offer ICT companies who wish to operate here. However, the inherited monopoly and ongoing campaign against liberalisation by the incumbent telecommunications operator impinge on our ability to develop this sector. Let me be clear on this I will not rest until we have removed these obstacles, and look forward to the day when all Guyanese citizens and businesses have adequate, competitively priced access to telecommunications. 4.1.2 Information Needs

61. In general all five agencies expressed a need for technical and economic information. NARI, New GMC, IPED and RBCSTC embraced a need for technical information such as: grading, packaging, storage, transportation, crop varieties, livestock species, sourcing of equipment (production, processing, nursery), waste utilization, integrated pest management and in the case of NARI and New GMC the production and marketing of organic produce. 62. With respect to the economic information, New GMC, IPED and RBCSTC were interested in market related data, the identification of markets for their clients and commodity profiles, while NARI had specific interest in crop insurance systems and commodity profiles. In addition, IPED was particularly interested in other (non-agricultural) business opportunity linkages as such information could be used within their Entrepreneurial Centre. 63. Further to the above, in terms of more general information, NARI expressed a need for information pertaining to conferences and meetings, farm problems, international regulations, and programs executed by agricultural networks. New GMC had interests in conferences and meetings, international regulations and trade fairs. 64. Notwithstanding the limited sourcing of printed information, all of the key institutions recognize their importance in dissemination. Leaflets, one page summaries and newsletters were all known to be useful and this was recognized as a definite need for the dissemination of information to farmers and other potential users. 65. The major information needs that were not satisfied (and common to all stakeholders) included accurate domestic production statistics (crops and livestock) for secondary (non-traditional) agricultural commodities, statistics on the farming population, cost of production and cost of marketing data, domestic consumption statistics as well as estimates of supply and demand of produce. Information needs not satisfied but specific to the key institutions are as follows: New GMC (prices in overseas markets, information on potential importers), NARI (biotechnology, agribusiness management, postharvest technology, fruit and vegetable processing, organic agriculture production, sustainable agriculture), IPED (trade and market information, cost of products), CD (application of communication technologies, management of information within organization, training in various aspects of running successful cooperatives) and RBCSTC (technical information such as: pest and disease management, crop management, grading, packaging, etc). These needs are based on a two year plan in the case of IPED and a three year plan in the case of NARI. New GMCs needs are based on its 10 years of experience in providing market related information to clients while the needs of CD and RBCSTC are based on current perceptions of long-identified gaps.

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4.1.3

Capacity-building Needs

66. All five agencies expressed a need for training in the application of communication technologies as well as in the management of information within the organization. In addition, NARI and New GMC were interested in report writing and editing. The CD had a specific need in training for staff in cooperative development and in computer usage and literacy and in addition, training for members of cooperative societies in making cooperative societies and associations in general more successful. NARI has also expressed a need for training / exposure in digital microscopic photography (for the documentation of entomological and biotechnological work.) and miscellaneous audio-visual equipment and in library management. The need for coaching in the areas of storage, analysis and consolidation of data and information for dissemination to specified target groups and in the utilization of teleconferencing facilities was also expressed. 67. Further, as the remaining key institutions listed and other organizations in the sector move to establish LANs and webpages and to increase the preparation of posters, brochures, newsletters and newspaper, radio and television programmes, the need for ongoing exposure and training is apparent. 4.1.4 Potential Partners and Beneficiaries

68. NARI, New GMC and IPED have been identified as possible CTA partners. The reasons for proposing NARI and New GMC are as follows: their work in agricultural research and market promotion is very relevant to CTAs ultimate beneficiaries; there is a strong presence of women, the young, and resource-poor farmers among their past, present and potential beneficiaries; their programmes and activities are complementary with CTAs programmes (i.e., ICM and thematic focus); the agencies have the capacity to make in-kind financial and/or technical contributions to the respective ventures; there is likelihood of a high multiplier effect; the agencies were established about 20 years ago and have the ability to deliver services in a timely and effective manner; they have the ability to maintain the services after CTAs exit. 69. In the case of IPED, the reasons are as follows: Its activities which are focused at the provision of loans and entrepreneurial skills to small and micro farmers and entrepreneurs is consistent with CTAs mandate; There is a strong presence of women, the young, and resource-poor farmers among their past, present and potential beneficiaries; It has the capacity to make in-kind financial and/or technical contributions to the respective ventures; There is likelihood of a high multiplier effect; It has the ability to deliver services in a timely and effective manner; It has the ability to maintain the services after CTAs exit; and The Entrepreneurial Training Centre, managed by IPED,is a scarce resource in Guyana. In addition, as an NGO governed by a Board of Directors, decision-making is quick in relation to public sector linked agencies.

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70. CD and RBCTC are identified as possible CTA beneficiaries. The reasons are as follows: As a division of the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security, the CD meets the basic qualification as a beneficiary. However, much more than that, the CD is responsible for monitoring and supervising hundreds of cooperative societies, associations, friendly societies, credit unions and school thrift societies that are managed by farmers, women, youth or mixed community groups. These commodity-based organizations are spread throughout the 10 regions of Guyana. The RBCSTC qualifies as a beneficiary by virtue of its being a training institution. In addition it caters to the needs of youth and women in particular. It is located in a predominantly farming area which also has a growing number of small entrepreneurs and can therefore serve the needs of the farming and small business community.

4.2

Recommendations
71. The following recommendations for Guyana are based on the objectives of this study and the conclusions addressed in Section 4.1. They are presented within the framework of CTAs three operational departments.

4.2.1

Information Needs

72. In Guyana there is an urgent need to increase the availability of information as well as to improve the awareness of sources of information. While the recommendations are based on the analysis of five agencies, they are considered representative of the needs of stakeholders in general. The recommendations in this section relate to the Information Products and Services Department. 73. It is recommended that mechanisms be put into place to supply the following specific information needs: Technical information such as: grading, packaging, storage, transportation, crop varieties, livestock species; sourcing of equipment (production, processing, nursery); waste utilization; integrated pest management (for NARI, New GMC, IPED and RBCSTC in the first instance); and information on the production and marketing of organic produce (for NARI and New GMC in the first instance). Economic information such as: market related data; the identification of markets for their clients; and commodity profiles (for New GMC, IPED and RBCSTC in the first instance); crop insurance systems and commodity profiles (for NARI in the first instance); and other (non-agricultural) business opportunity linkages (for IPED). General information such as: information pertaining to conferences and meetings; farm problems related to %age of land under cultivation, commodity choice etc.; international regulations; and programs executed by agricultural networks (for NARI in the first instance); and information on conferences and meetings, international regulations and trade fairs (for New GMC in the first instance). 74. A casual visit the available website (www.agrinetguyana.org.gy) shows that in general there is a need to develop better electronic products and to increase the range of products offered. In addition, there is a need to improve the distribution mechanisms for printed and electronic data and information.

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75. Notwithstanding the importance of the Internet, there should be an increased use of printed information such as one page summaries, leaflets and newsletters. This printed information refers to both information that already exists (CTA and local) and information that will become available in the future. 76. As CTA cannot solve all of the data and information gaps, particularly those common to all stakeholders such as: domestic production statistics (crops and livestock) for secondary (nontraditional) agricultural commodities and statistics on the farming population, it is recommended that stakeholders get together and urge the relevant government authorities to take the required steps to correct the situation and to seek to get the required guidance to develop policies and strategies on information and communication management. 4.2.2 Capacity-building Needs

77. The general impression from agriculture sector personnel is that the Internet will be the answer to all information gaps; but as discussed above, the products are still rudimentary. Furthermore, there is a need for a adoption of the use of various channels. Apart from NARIs periodic radio and television programmes and newspaper article, there is almost nothing else. 78. Guyanas agriculture policy makers may need to consider the re-establishment of a Communication Unit of the Extension Division of the MFCL or alternatively NARIs Communication Division could be re-oriented to provide this function but a strong link with the Extension Division of the MFCL would be required to achieve success at dissemination. 79. The recommended capacity-building needs related to the Information and Communication Management Skills and Systems Department are: Training in the application of communication technologies as well as in the management of information within organizations; Training in report writing and editing; Training / exposure in digital microscopic photography (for the documentation of entomological and biotechnological work.) and miscellaneous audio-visual equipment and in library management; Coaching in the areas of storage, analysis and consolidation of data and information for dissemination to specified target groups and in the utilization of teleconferencing facilities; Specific support for beneficiary agencies as indicated in the above section; and Ongoing training and exposure opportunities to support the establishment of LANs and webpages and the preparation and dissemination of posters, brochures, newsletters, one page summaries and newspaper, radio and television programmes. 80. In addition, it is recommended that Guyanas agricultural sector pursues the establishment an effective ICM system based on conventional as well as electronic communication channels. CTA should be a leading partner in this development. 4.2.3 Potential Partners and Beneficiaries 81. As a result of the analysis, NARI, New GMC and IPED are recommended as CTAs potential partners. In addition, CD and RBCSTC are recommended as potential beneficiaries.

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ANNEXES

32

ANNEX I. TERMS OF REFERENCE

ASSESSMENT OF AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION NEEDS IN AFRICAN, CARIBBEAN & PACIFIC (ACP) STATES Phase 1: Caribbean

1. Introduction The Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) was established in 1983 under the Lom Convention between the ACP (African, Caribbean and Pacific) Group of States and the European Union Member States. Since 2000, it has operated within the framework of the ACP-EC Cotonou Agreement. CTAs tasks are to develop and provide services that improve access to information for agricultural and rural development, and to strengthen the capacity of ACP countries to produce, acquire, exchange and utilise information in this area. CTAs programmes are organised around three principal activities: providing an increasing range and quantity of information products and services and enhancing awareness of relevant information sources; supporting the integrated use of appropriate communication channels and intensifying contacts and information exchange (particularly intra-ACP); and developing ACP capacity to generate and manage agricultural information and to formulate information and communication management (ICM) strategies, including those relevant to science and technology. These activities take account of methodological developments in cross-cutting issues (gender, youth, information & communication technologies ICTs, and social capital), findings from impact assessments and evaluations of ongoing programmes as well as priority information themes for ACP agriculture1. In January 2002, CTAs Strategic Plan (2001-2005) was implemented and CTAs activities were distributed among three operational programme areas / departments: Information Products and Services Communication Channels and Services Information and Communication Management Skills and Systems These operational departments are supported by Planning Corporate Services (P&CS) which is charged with the methodological underpinning of their work and monitoring the ACP environment in order to identify emerging issues and trends and make proposals for their translation into programmes and activities. This current exercise, therefore, falls within the mandate of P&CS. 2. Background A comprehensive regional information needs assessment was undertaken in the Caribbean region, by CTA and the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), over the period 1995-1997. This study detailed the information needs, habits and priorities, of eleven sub-groups of users relevant to the agricultural and rural development sector, presented in sixteen national reports and a
1

Priority information themes for ACP agriculture have formed the basis of various several studies, workshops and seminars bringing together various stakeholders, organisations and institutions active in the field of agriculture and rural development. The documents (or extracts thereof) will be provided to the consultants.

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regional overview. The results of the studies were followed by a series of national consultations, missions and regional meetings, as well as pilot studies in information and communications management all aimed at arriving at or designing a strategy to meet information needs within the sector. The strategy proposed the development of a Caribbean Agricultural Information Service (CAIS) with a two pronged approach to improving access to information within the Caribbean region: Working with institutions at the national level to improve capacity in various aspects of information and communication management (e.g. network development, training, sensitisation). Developing information products and services to meet specific information needs identified.
The CAIS strategy has been implemented since 2001. A number of capacity building exercises were executed including workshops and training courses; provision of technical assistance; network development, policies and systems. Since the implementation of this strategy in 2001, there have also been a number of changes within institutions in the region with respect to their awareness and use of information and communications tools and technologies.

2. Main issues CTA works primarily through intermediary organisations and partners (non-governmental organisations, farmers organisations, regional organisations, ) to promote agriculture and rural development. Through partnerships, CTA hopes to increase the number of ACP organisations capable of generating and managing information and developing their own information and communication management strategies. The identification of appropriate partners is therefore of primordial importance. The Evaluation of the Implementation of the Mid-Term Plan (1997 2000) emphasised the need for CTA to develop a more pro-active approach and elaborate criteria for decision-making with regard to the choice of partner organisations and beneficiaries. Based on this evaluation, the Strategic Plan and Framework for Action 2001 2005 identifies strategic issues for CTA being: improved targeting (including partnerships and beneficiaries), geographical coverage, decentralisation, regionalisation and thematic orientation. The Plan also expresses concern about: the extent to which CTAs activities are relevant to and reach the poor, gender awareness and how to identify potential partners especially in the independent sectors. Besides partner identification and selection issues, the observation has also been made that, the Caribbean region could benefit further from CTAs programme and activities. Finally, various national and regional partners with whom CTA has had a long-standing relationship have requested the current study which would serve to update the earlier studies done and allow them to provide more targeted assistance to their beneficiaries. 3. Objectives and scope of the study The objectives of the study are as follows: to identify agricultural information needs of key actors / beneficiaries for CTA products and services; to identify needs of potential actors / beneficiaries of CTA activities and services in terms of building capacity for information and communication management; to identify potential partners / beneficiaries for CTA activities and services; to develop some baseline data to facilitate subsequent monitoring activities. The study should assist the three operational departments of the CTA as well as its local representatives to improve and better target interventions and activities aimed at potential partners and beneficiaries (including women, youth, private sector and civil society organisations); to have a more informed picture
34

of their needs and aid in the elaboration of a strategy and framework of action. The study should also highlight where there are specific needs for CTAs products and services thereby enabling improvement in the delivery of the same. 4. Methodology The consultant will use a combination of qualitative and quantitative rapid appraisal methods including: the desk review of available literature and information sources including the findings of programme evaluations; the conduct of face-to-face interviews with relevant stakeholders / concerned parties; the limited use of questionnaires. The rapid appraisal approach will allow a general overview of the key issues and company / organisational profiles on a per country2 basis and may give rise to more in-depth studies as and when needed in the future. 5. Expected outcomes / output One main report per country not exceeding 20 pages according to the following table of contents: Main report 1. Executive summary 2. Introduction 3. Country profile summary structure and economic characteristics with particular attention to agricultural sector (includes fisheries and forestry): Summary of how agriculture, fisheries and forestry is organised in the country Summary of the information and communication management capacity The current source of agricultural information and services (synthesise Annex 3) 4. Needs analysis Information needs Capacity building needs (skills, training, media, ICT, equipment) 5. Conclusions and recommendations 6. References Annexes 1. Terms of reference 2. Country profile 2.1 General agricultural profile (from available documentation) Size of agricultural population (male / female / youth) Farmed land, forests, fishing areas Agricultural systems

Out of 16 countries comprising the Caribbean ACP, only selected number will initially be the subjects of studies, with domestic consultants conducting country-specific assessments. Country selection will be done by CTA on the basis of specific criteria.

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3.

Agriculture in the economy (%age GDP) Main agricultural produce and secondary products Main export markets Trade agreements that include agriculture Sectoral policy related to agriculture, fisheries and forests 2.2 Socio-economic profile (from available documentation) Total active population, demographic breakdown Literacy level and languages Access to services (health, schools, electricity) Rural urban drift 2.3 Media and telecommunications (update / check) Newspapers, periodicals, magazines, radio stations, television channels, Telecommunication services (fixed, mobile, etc.) Computers and Internet access Profile of institutions List of all institutions involved in agriculture and rural development activities, including private sector and civil society organisations, with name, contact details, type and role of institution Select list of key institutions involved in agriculture and rural development, with extensive data and information on the institution, the problems faced and why it is considered a key actor

It is also expected that the results of this study will lead to identification / update of some priority agricultural information themes which will feed into a possible priority-setting exercise in the region in 2004. 6. Reporting The country reports will not exceed 20 pages (excluding annexes). The annexes should include a list of acronyms, of persons/institutions interviewed with addresses, phone, fax numbers, e-mail addresses (if any) as well as bibliography. 7. Timing Draft final report is to be submitted within three months after contract signature by CTA Final report due two weeks after receipt of comments from CTA. 8. Expertise needed The expert should have a university degree or equivalent by experience. In addition, he/she should have at least 10 years experience in field of agriculture, rural development or social / economic sciences. He/she must have in-depth knowledge of the agricultural sector in his/her country and be able to identify key players and institutions / organisations active in this area. The ability to communicate and write clearly in English is essential, while knowledge of at least one of the local languages for communication / interview purposes is an added advantage. The overall coordination will be carried out by Ms Christine Webster, Deputy Head, Planning and Corporate Services CTA, assisted by Mrs Lola Visser-Mabogunje, Project Assistant.

36

9. Implementation schedule (CTA) Preparation/Finalisation of ToR; Identification/ short-listing of (potential) consultants; Call for offers: February June 2004 Selection of consultants & contractual arrangements: July/August 2004 Briefing: August 2004 Start date of contract: 1 September 2004 Implementation period 1 September February 2005 End date of contract: 28 February 2005

10. Key documents to be made available to consultants Documents include: Cotonou Framework Agreement Excerpts of relevant sections of CTAs Strategic Plan and Plan of Action (2001-2005) Annual Reports Documents on priority information themes identified for the Caribbean region Documents on products & services provided by CTA Information Needs Relevant Country and Regional Reports 1997 CAIS Stakeholders Meeting Reports

_________________________________

37

ANNEX II COUNTRY PROFILE [GUYANA]

Map of Guyana Showing Major Towns and Key Districts

38

Map of Guyana Showing the Ten Administrative Regions

Guyana is approximately 215,000 km2 in area. Of this the land area is about 197,000 Km2. The country is situated between 1 and 9 north latitude and between 56 and 62 west longitude. With a 430-kilometer Atlantic coastline on the northeast, Guyana is bounded by Venezuela on the west, Brazil on the west and south, and Suriname on the east. There are three major geographical regions of the country: the coastal plain which comprises about five percent of land area but has about 90 percent of population; the white sand belt, inland from the coastal plain with hardwood forest and mineral deposits; and the interior highlands, the largest and southernmost of three regions which consists of mountains, high plateaus, and savannahs.

II.1 General Agricultural Profile

II.1.1 Size of agricultural population (male/female/youth) World Development Indicators Database of the World Bank based on 2002 labour and social statistics (www.devdata.worldbank.org/external/dgcomp.asp?rmdk=1108.smdk) records the percentage of males and females that was employed in agriculture (inclusive of hunting, forestry and fishing) as 36.2 and 17.1 (1992) respectively. The ILO database (www.ilocarib.org.tt/digest/guyana/guy06.html) reports that in 1997, 60,481 persons comprising 48,668 males (80.5 %) and 11,813 females (19.5 %) were employed in agriculture, hunting and forestry. Further 6,308 persons comprising 5,144 males (81.5 %) and 1,164

39

females (18.5 %) were employed in the fisheries sub-sector. There is no specific information on the number of youth involved in agricultural activities. Agriculture inclusive of forestry and fisheries has traditionally contributed about 30 percent to the total labour force. Table 4 which shows the occupational structure of the workforce for 1992/1993 and 1999 supports this. In addition, the distribution of the population by socio-economic group shows that 30 percent of the population was either self-employed in agriculture or was engaged in manual or nonmanual pursuits within the agricultural sector (Table 5). The Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP) notes that most of the poor live in rural areas. They are mostly self-employed in agriculture or work as manual labourers largely in activities linked to agriculture. Table 4: Occupational Structure of Workforce in 1992/1993 and 1999 Occupational Structure Percentage of total Workforce 1999 1992/1993 28 30

Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry And Fishing Mining And Quarrying 3 4 Manufacturing And Utilities 13 12 Construction 7 4 Services 44 45 Private Household 3 4 Source: Guyana Survey of Living Conditions

Table 5: Distribution of Population by Socio-Economic Group, 1999 Number Percentage Of Persons Self-employed in agriculture 100,363 14 Agricultural manual labour 98,855 14 Agricultural non-manual labour 17,709 2 Self-employed in non-agricultural 124,849 17 Non-agricultural manual labour 172,953 24 Non-agricultural non-manual labour 157,863 22 Economically Inactive 49,239 7 Total 721,831 100 Source: Guyana Survey of Living Conditions II.1.2 Farmed land, forests and fishing areas II.1.2.1 Farmed land Rice, the second most important agricultural industry in Guyana, (second to sugar) is the largest user of agricultural lands. Recent GNBS data show that over the last 12 years at least 100,000 ha per year (under a double crop system) have been regularly cultivated with rice. This compares to sugar where Guysuco regularly cultivates about 40-50,000 Ha per year. The NDS classifies about 75 percent of the approximately 25,000 farm households as small (less than 15 acres in size). These smallholders have access to about 40,000 ha. II.1.2.2 Forestry
40

Socio-Economic Group

About 65,000 miles2 (168,000 km2) or more than 75 percent of Guyanas total land area is forested. Almost 14 million ha of Guyanas total forests lie within the gazetted State Forest boundaries, where all commercial timber exploitation occurs. There have however, been excisions from this block of land for Amerindian communities, the Iwokrama Rain Forest Reserve and mining leases. The NDS also notes that although many of the plant and animal species which abound in Guyanas forests are as yet unidentified, it is known that the forests are a most significant reservoir of biodiversity. II.1.2.3 Fisheries The fisheries sub-sector of Guyana comprises three primary components: marine fisheries, inland fisheries and aquaculture. Guyana has a coastline of 432 km and a continental shelf area of 48,665 km2. The average width of the continental shelf is 112.6 km and the area of the Economic Zone (EEZ) is 138,240 km. Most of Guyanas fishing occurs in the relatively shallow waters of the continental shelf. The marine resources exploited within the EEZ are mainly the demersal fisheries resources and to a much more limited extent, the pelagic fish resources which are to be found both over the continental shelf and toward the continental slope. The NDS estimates the stocks of marine resources as 374,000 Mt of biomass, comprising 300,000 Mt of pelagic fish biomass, 69,000 Mt of demersal fish biomass, 3,000 Mt of shark biomass and 2,000 Mt of squid biomass. II.1.3 Agricultural systems The predominant farming systems are: Large-scale highly mechanized rice and sugarcane farms, producing rice for both domestic and exports; Mechanized small to medium scale rice farms complementing mixed small scale crops and livestock to supplement cash income and ensure food security; Small scale shifting cultivation (slash and burn) for staples such as cassava, eddoe, plantain, peas and beans, pineapples, peanuts etc for cash income and food security; Medium to large pure stands of tree crops such as coconuts and citrus; Medium and small farms with permanent crops intercropped with cassava, plantain and other ground provision to supplement cash income and ensure food security; Commercial vegetable only or vegetable and fruit production on small farm holdings; Mixed crop and livestock production systems on medium and small farm holdings producing vegetables, ground provisions, cassava, tree crops as well as dual purpose cattle; Large, medium or small scale extensive beef cattle production; and Small scale semi-intensive or modified intensive dairy cattle production. Many of the small and medium-sized farm holdings also have sheep, goats, ducks and poultry which are used for home consumption and for festive occasions. A wide range of resource and risk management strategies are used by farmers to ensure food security, to increase productivity and to improve family income. These strategies are influenced by various conditions existing at the farm level. A wide range of production technologies thus exist from subsistence, low input-output forms of production to more sophisticated high yielding production systems. II.1.4 Agriculture in the economy (percentage GDP) Tables 6 and 7 show that total agricultural GDP at Constant Factor (1988) Prices was consistently over G$1,500 Million between 1997 and 2004 and that the sugar sub-sector consistently contributed over G$790 Million or more than 50 percent of total Agricultural Sector GDP. The general trend has been one of a growing sector. In 2001 for example, the total agricultural GDP grew by 3.7 percent, while
41

the total GDP grew by 2.3 percent. While growth in 2003 was negative, in 2004, agricultural GDP grew by 3.5 percent and total GDP grew by 1.6 percent (Table 8). Sugar is by far the most important agricultural subsector and has contributed no less than 15 percent to total GDP between 1997 and 2004 (Table 9). Over the same period rice accounted for about 3-4 percent of GDP, livestock 2 percent, other agriculture 5 percent and fishing 3 percent. II.1.5 Main agricultural produce and secondary products II.1.5.1 Rice The over-riding objective of the rice sub-sector is to become internationally competitive (NDS). Table 10 shows that the rice sub-sector experienced impressive growth during the period 1993-2004, surpassing previous records of production and export. In 1999 over 562,000 tonnes of paddy were produced yielding an equivalent of approximately 365,000 tonnes of rice. Some 69 percent (approximately 252,000 tonnes) was exported in the same year. After 1999, there was a decline in paddy production and rice exports as millers and growers struggled to continue in the industry even in the face of falling export prices. Paddy production eventually reached to 442,900 tonnes in 2002. By 2004, almost 500,000 tonnes of paddy with a rice equivalent of 325,600 tonnes were produced. Of the rice produced, 243,100 tonnes (75 percent) were exported. II.1.5.2 Sugar The objective of this sub-sector is to improve the competitiveness of the industry so that it may increase its contribution to the development of Guyana (NDS). Sugar production increased steadily from approximately 247,000 tonnes in 1993 to 325,000 tonnes in 2004 (Table 11). This represented a 32 percent increase over the 12-year period. Exports have traditionally been between 80-90 percent of production. II.1.5.3 Secondary products The secondary products are the non-traditional agricultural produce (crops and livestock). Included in the definition of non-traditional crops are all fruits, vegetables and root crops and all cash or foodcrops (including coconuts) other than rice and sugar. Table 12 lists some of these commodities. The overall policy objective for the non-traditional agricultural sub-sector is to increase the rate of growth of its output, in the knowledge that by doing so a most significant number of job opportunities would be created (NDS). The major producing areas of secondary products have been the Coastal Regions of Guyana (Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6).

42

Table 6: GDP at Constant Factor (1988) Prices - G$ Million 2004 Sector Sugar Rice Livestock Other Agriculture Fishing Total Agri Sector Total GDP 1006 200 133 297 157 1793 5587 935 218 130 291 159 1733 5501 1024 177 125 285 159 1770 5536 880 199 119 281 165 1,644 5,474 846 180 116 278 164 1,584 5,385 994 225 111 275 143 1,748 5,426 790 209 109 272 142 1,522 5,270 854 210 111 255 146 1,576 5,360 864 206 105 242 135 1,552 5,048 783 194 84 233 132 1,426 4,676 788 143 69 215 120 1,335 4,452 757 129 60 203 112 1,261 4,103 759 105 54 193 109 1,220 3,792 499 94 55 195 113 956 3,519 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, www. agrinetguyana.org.gy

Table 7: Agricultural Sub-Sector as a Percentage of Total Agriculture Sector Sugar Rice Livestock Other Agriculture Fishing Total Agri Sector 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 56.1 53.9 57.9 53.5 53.4 56.8 51.9 54.2 55.7 54.9 59.0 60.0 62.2 52.2 11.2 12.6 10.0 12.1 11.4 12.9 13.7 13.3 13.3 13.6 10.7 10.2 8.6 9.8 7.4 7.5 7.1 7.2 7.3 6.4 7.2 7.0 6.8 5.9 5.2 4.8 4.4 5.8 16.6 16.8 16.1 17.1 17.5 15.7 17.9 16.2 15.6 16.3 16.1 16.1 15.8 20.4 8.8 9.2 9.0 10.0 10.3 8.2 9.3 9.3 8.7 9.3 9.0 8.9 8.9 11.8 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, www. agrinetguyana.org.gy

43

Table 8: Agricultural GDP Growth Rates Sector Sugar Rice Livestock Other Agriculture Fishing Total Agri Sector Total GDP 2004 7.6 -8.3 2.0 2.0 -1.0 3.5 1.6 2003 -8.7 23.2 4.0 2.1 0.0 -2.1 -0.6 2002 16.4 -11.1 5.0 1.4 -3.6 7.7 1.1 2001 4.0 10.6 2.3 1.1 0.8 3.7 2.3 2000 -14.8 -20.1 4.6 1.0 14.1 -9.4 -0.8 1999 25.8 7.6 2.0 1.0 1.0 14.8 3.0 1998 -7.5 -0.3 -1.6 6.8 -2.6 -3.4 -1.8 1997 -1.2 1.9 5.5 5.4 8.0 1.5 6.2 1996 10.3 6.2 25.0 3.9 2.3 8.8 7.9 1995 -0.6 35.7 21.7 8.4 10.0 6.8 5.1 1994 4.1 10.9 15.3 5.9 7.1 5.9 8.5 1993 -0.3 22.9 10.9 5.2 2.8 3.4 8.3 1992 52.0 12.2 -2.5 -1.2 -3.5 27.5 7.7

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, www. agrinetguyana.org.gy

Table 9: Percentage Contribution of the Agriculture Sector to Total GDP Sector Sugar Rice Livestock Other Agriculture Fishing Total Agri Sector Total GDP 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 18 17 19 16 16 18 15 16 17 17 18 19 20 14 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 32 32 32 30 29 32 29 29 31 31 30 31 32 27 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, www. agrinetguyana.org.gy

44

Table 10: Rice Statistics (1993-2004)

Year Paddy Production (000 Tonnes) Rice Equivalent Produced (000 Tonnes) Quantity of Rice Exported (000 Tonnes) Rice Yield (Tonnes per Ha)

1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

350.4 383.1 525.5 543.0 568.2 522.9 562.3 448.7 495.8 442.9 546.2 499.6

210.2 233.4 316.8 334.5 341.0 339.7 365.4 291.9 322.2 287.9 355.0 325.6

124.1 181.2 200.5 262.2 285.1 249.8 251.5 207.6 209.0 193.4 200.4 243.1

2.08 2.30 3.90 2.50 2.39 2.63 2.48 2.52 2.59 2.67 2.75 2.81

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics

45

Table 11: Performance Indicators in Cane and Sugar Production (1993-2004) Year Hectares Harvested (000) Tonnes cane milled (000) Tonnes cane / hectare Tones cane/ tonnes sugar Tonnes sugar /hectare Quantity of Sugar Produced (000 Tonnes) Quantity of Sugar Exported (000 Tonnes) 1993 39.7 3,229 81.2 13.1 5.8 246.5 238.5 1994 42.4 3,199 75.5 12.5 6.1 256.7 231.7 1995 44.9 2,956 65.6 11.6 5.7 254.5 225.4 1996 43.3 3,222 74.4 11.3 6.5 280.1 257.0 1997 46.4 3,074 66.3 11.1 6.0 276.4 247.6 1998 44.3 2,966 67.0 11.7 5.7 255.5 236.9 1999 44.7 3,245 72.5 11.2 7.2 321.4 270.0 2000 44.2 2,710 61.2 9.9 6.2 273.3 277.2 2001 44.2 3,141 71.1 11.0 6.4 284.5 252.3 2002 41.6 3,708 89.1 11.2 8.0 331.1 281.7 2003 42.0 3,382 80.6 11.2 6.8 302.4 311.8 2004 50.4 3,744 74.3 11.5 6.5 325.3 289.0

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics

46

Table 12: Production of Selected Agricultural Commodities: 1994-2004

Commodity Unit 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

Coconut Peanuts Blackeye Minica Corn Other Legumes Plantain Ground Provision Cassava Tomato Cabbage Citrus Pineapple Banana

mill nuts 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t 000 m/t

72.0 1.9 0.5 0.2 3.3 1.0 19.4 13.4 29.2 2.0 1.8 7.6 10.1 16.1

91.5 131.5 143.0 1.7 0.4 0.5 3.8 2.3 21.2 12.9 35.1 3.3 2.6 6.6 10.4 16.7 2.3 0.4 0.5 3.1 0.1 17.6 12.9 35.3 2.5 1.8 2.8 7.2 14.3 6.4 0.9 0.5 7.9 0.2 13.6 16.0 40.5 3.0 1.2 2.8 10.5 11.0

71.0 2.3 0.3 0.3 3.1 0.1 8.2 6.9 25.9 1.2 0.9 4.3 1.2 11.2

90.0 2.3 0.3 0.2 3.2 0.1 6.5 8.6 28.1 1.6 0.7 6.5 2.5 9.1

98.8 2.3 0.3 0.4 3.8 0.1 23.3 15.3 44.9 4.7 0.3 14.5 3.2 18.6

52.5 1.3 0.2 0.3 2.0 0.0 16.9 11.4 28.9 2.6 0.3 11.9 4.4 17.1

72.0 105.0 1.3 0.04 0.8 0.9 0.0 9.2 5.4 20.0 0.3 0.3 3.5 0.5 20.1 1.3 0.05 0.5 1.1 0.01 5.4 8.7 27.4 2.6 1.9 7.9 1.7 16.8

59.2 1.3 0.08 0.3 1.2 0.0 3.1 7.6 23.0 0.6 0.5 5.0 1.5 4.8

Source: Planning Department, MOA

II.1.6 Main export markets II.1.6.1 Main agricultural produce In the case of sugar, Table 13 shows that the major markets have been the EU, USA and Caricom. In 2004 for example, 62 percent of the sugar was exported to the EU, 31 percent to Caricom and 6 percent to the USA. Likewise, in 2004, 46 percent of rice exports went to the EU, 27 percent to Caricom and the rest to a miscellaneous number of countries (Table 14). II.1.6.2 Secondary products The exportation of secondary products (non-traditional agricultural produce) involves a wide range of fruits and vegetables, spices and condiments. Major destinations have been CARICOM countries (Barbados and Trinidad in particular), North American cities (New York and Toronto) and France. The major commodities exported, in terms of value, have been heart of palm, plantain, copra and pineapple.

47

Table 13: Sugar Exports by Major Destination, 2000-2004 2000 Quantity (Mt) US '000s 179222 87496.6 31757 12774.7 24253 8597.1 0 0 0 0 42038 12235.2 2001 Quantity (Mt) US '000s 163642 73709.8 31912 12235.9 12094 4003.1 0 0 0 0 44685 14844.9 2002 Quantity (Mt) US '000s 160383 80068.4 31763 14213.3 12164 4026.3 0 0 0 0 58999 18379.5 2003 Quantity (Mt) US '000s 168603 86205.3 14949 7265.5 6002 2443.6 10700 1864.5 0 0 87778 27143.4 2004 Quantity (Mt) US '000s 14212 7625.3 166992 95838.1 18183 7200.5 0 0 6 3.9 90102 35823.2

EU - UK EU - SPS USA Canada Special - UK Caricom New Regional Markets (Haiti) World Market Russia

0 0

0 0

0 0 7500 1500 0 0 10850 1354.9 Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics

2815 21000

587.6 3659.3

90 0

18 0

Table 14: Rice Exports by Major Destination, 2000-2004 2000 Quantity (Mt) US '000s 76051.1 22168.4 104672.9 23549.1 26913.7 6105 2001 2002 2003 Quantity Quantity Quantity (Mt) US '000s (Mt) US '000s (Mt) US '000s 76004.8 21008.6 59352.6 15844.7 51163.4 12805.6 105025.2 23253.1 117541.8 26363.8 106045.7 23315 28011.7 5800 16520.8 3255.1 43222.3 9139.4 Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics 2004 Quantity (Mt) US '000s 65296.6 17776.7 112263.7 24166.9 65532.2 13122.9

Caricom EU Others

48

The specific promotion of the exportation of secondary products began in the mid-1980s when the Guyana Marketing Corporation was given a new mandate to facilitate and coordinate the exportation of non-traditional agricultural commodities. Since that time, there have been some significant improvements in the volumes of produce shipped but the trade has been limited by several structural impediments. Many of these are production-related (e.g. insufficiency of planting material and cultural practices) while others relate to the poor level of infrastructure for domestic transportation, product assembly as well as external transportation. Several constraints to production, marketing and trade of the NTCs have been identified by numerous studies. Most of the products that enter the non-traditional export trade are grown on small-holdings. Although there are significant concentrations of particular crops in certain areas, there is, in general, no marked distinction between production for the local market and production for the export market. This is understandable as the volume of non-traditional exports is still relatively small at about 4,000 tonnes. In fact, non-traditional exports are a very minor proportion of total agricultural exports which is dominated by sugar and rice exports. The NGMC statistics (Table 15) show that the total volume of non-traditional produce exported over the last ten years decreased from a high of 4,662 tonnes in 1995 to a low of 2,375 tonnes in 1998. Since 1998, export volume has gradually increased to reach 4,111 tonnes in 2002 and 4,461 tonnes in 2004 (preliminary 2004 NGMC data). This 2004 volume in terms of Central Bank earnings was valued at about G$1,000 Million or Euros 3.85 million. The data also show that the single most important commodity exported for the entire period was HOP of which export volume was 1,507 tonnes in 2004. In 2004, HOP exports were 34 percent of the total export volume. Heart of Palm exports were followed by crude coconut oil (587 tonnes), plantain (394 tonnes), copra (218 tonnes), mango (185 tonnes) and pineapple (176 tonnes). Crude coconut oil exports represented 13 percent of the 2004 total export volume, plantain 9 percent and mango and pineapple 4 percent each. The exportation of non-traditional produce is therefore precariously poised on HOP, which is for the most part a non-cultivated crop. In recent years, there have been attempts at replanting. NGMC records that the HOP is shipped primarily to France, the pineapples, plantains and limes primarily to Barbados and a range of fruits and vegetables to the USA and to Canada. Further analysis (Table 16) shows that in 2004, 55 percent of the exports of secondary products went to CARICOM destinations and the remaining 45 percent to extra-regional markets. Twenty seven percent of the 2004 exports went to France, 24 percent to Trinidad, 20 percent to Barbados and 7.6 percent and 6.0 percent to the USA and Canada respectively.

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Table 15: Statistics on the Exportation of Secondary Products and Values (NonTraditional) Agricultural Produce 1995 to 2004
Item Export Volume Export Value (Bank of Guyana Remittance) Export Value (Bank of Guyana Remittance) Export Value (Bank of Guyana Remittance) Major commodities Bora Coconut oil (crude) Copra Eddo Heart of Palm Lime Mango Pumpkin Pineapple Plantain Unit Tonnes G$M 1995 4662 1996 4323 1997 2997 387.4 1998 2375 62.4 1999 3110 620.5 Years 2000 3306 444.2 2001 3388 667.9 2002 4111 721.5 2003 4072 728.0 2004 4651 999.9

Euro Million

2.23

0.31

2.93

1.85

2.70

2.77

2.93

3.85

US$M

2.9

0.4

3.8

2.4

3.5

3.6

3.8

5.0

Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes Tonnes

40

38

32

52

55

39 0 1562 74 1232 16 88 53 31 2

26 235 313 56 1558 38 96 60 113 371

48 742 742 45 1382 63 223 42 144 372

28 861 509 49 1557 25 181 173 76 346

49 587 218 53 1507 91 185 114 176 394

1679 86 1648 35 141 157 309 87

1091 84 1456 70 143 217 394 98

501 19 1700 71 105 119 138 13

512 8 1051 0 168 15 13 410

44 63 1327 17 116 64 125 9

Source:

New Guyana Marketing Corporation

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Table 16: Total Volume of Produce Exported by Country, 1999-2004

Country Regional Markets Antigua Barbados Dominica Jamaica St .Vincent & the Grenadines St Lucia St.Kitts & Nevis Suriname Trinidad Others Sub-total Regional Extra-Regional Markets Belgium Canada Cyprus Finland France Greece Italy Lebanon Netherlands St. Marteen Switzerland U.K U.S.A Venezuela West Germany Others* Sub-total Extra-Regional 0.00 363.43 0.00 0.00 1,327.36 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.50 113.43 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,804.72 0.00 293.34 0.00 0.00 1,231.59 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 125.18 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,650.11 0.00 330.15 0.00 0.00 1,558.20 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.94 0.00 18.80 274.43 5.06 0.00 3.98 2,191.56 0.00 388.50 0.00 0.30 1,321.50 0.00 0.00 20.00 378.46 0.30 20.00 2.22 117.52 0.00 0.00 0.00 2,248.80 0.00 304.53 0.00 0.00 1,247.78 0.00 17.74 18.60 0.00 1.45 18.60 5.32 323.67 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,937.68 19.44 273.45 100.51 0.00 1,213.93 26.00 8.16 36.00 0.00 0.30 17.19 6.19 345.86 0.00 0.00 1.69 2,048.72 0.43 6.00 2.20 0.00 26.62 0.57 0.18 0.79 0.00 0.01 0.38 0.14 7.58 0.00 0.00 0.04 44.94 100 0.00 260.38 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,045.28 0.00 1,305.66 0.00 93.50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,562.97 0.00 1,656.47 2.90 456.00 0.00 55.70 0.00 0.12 0.00 0.00 624.78 6.78 1,146.28 5.10 663.08 0.28 0.00 9.00 10.00 0.11 0.37 1,174.20 0.00 1,862.14 13.79 1,025.27 14.55 0.00 0.07 0.00 0.03 33.95 1,046.15 0.19 2,133.98 7.29 931.90 401.70 0.00 0.00 56.94 0.00 3.97 1,110.16 0.14 2,512.10 0.16 20.43 8.81 0.00 0.00 1.25 0.00 0.09 24.34 0.00 55.08 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2004 Percentage Contribution

Total 3,110 3,306 3,338 4,111 4,072 4,561 Note: Others* at the Extra Regional Level represents countries such as Anguilla,British Virgin Islands, China, Martinique, Liberia and Burundi. Others* at the Regional Level represents countries such as Grenada and Monsterrat Source: New Guyana Marketing Corporation

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II.1.7 Trade agreements that include agriculture Guyana benefits from a number of unilateral trade preferences granted under the African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries and the European Union (ACP-EU) Agreement; the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI); the Canadian Programs for Commonwealth Caribbean Trade, Investment, and Industrial Cooperation (CARIBCAN); and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). In addition, Guyana's exports are granted preferential access to the EU market under the Cotonou Partnership Agreement signed between the ACP and the EU in 2000. For several years, exports of a range of commodities from Guyana (and the other CARICOM countries) to regional and extra-regional markets have been afforded access to tariff exemptions, tariff reductions or tariff preferences. As such, in theory, Guyanese exporters could better penetrate markets in which they have been granted preferential treatment or increase their market share in comparison with other competing suppliers who are not benefiting from one or other equivalent arrangement. The bottom line is that despite the previous initiatives at the national and Caricom levels, the results have been far from satisfactory. Some of the CARICOM trade arrangements to which Guyana is a signatory are as follows: CARICOM Colombia; CARICOM Costa Rica; CARICOM Cuba; CARICOM Dominican Republic; CARICOM Venezuela. As a result of the Free Trade Agreements between Caricom and the five countries mentioned above, exporters from all Caricom Member States have access a larger market, for a wide range of products. In general, Caricom MDCs (Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad & Tobago), in turn, provide duty free access to most products from the third countries while Caricom LDCs (OECS and Belize), while enjoying duty free access to the third countries are not required to grant similar access to their products. Agricultural commodities in general include: a range of fruits, vegetables, root crops, processed commodities such as fruit juices, jams, jellies and inputs such as seeds and plant parts (slips and cuttings, flowers, buds and other foliage). In addition a limited number of products were to continue to attract duty when traded under the Agreements and the duty on some others was to be phased out about four years after the respective agreements came into effect. Also worthy of note is the fact that Caricom countries could access from a country like Colombia, items not produced in Caricom such as vaccines against Foot and Mouth Disease, tractors, machine tools and miscellaneous small tools and equipment. II.1.8 Sectoral policy related to agriculture, fisheries and forests Objectives of both the NDS and the PRSP influence agricultural policy in Guyana. The PRSP is directly linked to the NDS in the areas of economic policy, good governance, infrastructure development and improvement in social services with the objective of reducing poverty. The two documents complement each other. The NDS is a strategy for development that spans a 25 year period (2001-2025). It contains broad and general ideas on the way forward. The PRSP on the other hand, is pivoted on an action plan for implementation, costing, financing requirements and sources of financing.

52

The overall objectives of the NDS are: To attain the highest rates of economic growth that are possible; To eliminate poverty in Guyana; To achieve geographical unity; To attain an equitable geographical distribution of economic activity; and To diversify the economy.

The broad objectives of the Poverty Reduction Strategy are: Sustained economic expansion within the context of a deepening participatory democracy; Access to social services including education, health, water and housing; and Strengthening and where necessary, expansion of social safety nets.

Agriculture The policy of the Government of Guyana (GOG) as adumbrated in the NDS, is to expand and diversify the agriculture sector. In addition to the traditional crops of rice and sugar, greater attention is being placed on the other crop subsector. The plan of the GOG is to make the sugar industry more competitive through the following: Higher field productivity; The utilization of additional areas of land mainly in the Skeldon and Albion/ Rosehall areas; Enhanced recovery through the replacement of obsolescent mills by larger state-of-the-art factories, including the construction of a new factory at Skeldon; Rationalization of the industry through the merging of some estates and operations; The co-generation of power from the Guyana Power and Light as well as from GuySuCos own bagasse; The increased production of sugar cane by small farmers; and The production of refined sugar and the introduction of new pack sizes of brown sugar by GuySuCo.

The rice industry would be made more competitive through: Increased field productivity; Increased mill recovery; More diverse international market; Greater access to unsecured credit; and Liberal tax incentives;

Fisheries GOGs policy on the fisheries sub-sector is one of an expanded production base as well as the display of more vitality through: Increased production of shellfish and fin-fish in an environmentally friendly manner (industrial trawling of marine fish and small scale artisanal fishing); Expansion of inland fishing for food and ornamental fish; and Expansion of brackish and fresh water aquaculture.
53

Forestry GOGs policies are: More sustainably managed forests; Regular forest inventory; Proper demarcation of areas for production and others for protection; Expansion of tertiary conversion processes (for furniture, parquet tiles, tooth picks, toys, clothes pins etc.); and Increased production of cane / nibbi furniture.

One of the priorities of the Poverty Reduction Programme is the adoption of policies to stimulate growth and it is within this priority that the agricultural sector is addressed. The strategies mentioned are consistent with the policies of the NDS.

II.2

Socio-Economic Profile

II.2.1 Demographics Guyanas most recent population census was completed in 2002 but these figures have not yet been released by the Guyana National Bureau of Statistics. As a result 1999 estimates are used in this section. Guyanas total population was estimated at 721,831 in 1999. Of that number, 367,361 (51 percent) persons were female and 354,470 (49 percent) were male (Table 17). In terms of age group structure of the population, Table 14 also shows that about 37 percent of the population was 19 years or less and that about 69 percent of the population was under 40 years old. On a regional basis, Region 4 (approximately 42 percent), Region 6 (approximately 17 percent) and Region 3 (approximately 14 percent) were the most populous as indicated Table 18.

Table 17: Percentage Distribution of the Population by Age Group and Gender, 1999 Age Group Male Percentage Female Percentage Both Sexes Total Percentage
12.53 12.11 11.27 10.20 9.09 8.75 6.86 7.27 6.20 4.50 3.27 2.29 1.93 1.48 2.24 100.00

Total

Total

<5 44,358 12.51 46,092 12.25 90,450 5-9 46,887 13.23 40,525 11.03 87,412 10-14 39,485 11.14 41,869 11.40 81,354 15-19 36,006 10.16 37,615 10.24 73,621 20-24 30,788 8.69 34, 827 9.48 65,615 25-29 31,796 8.67 31,338 8.53 63,134 30-34 23,739 6.70 25,800 7.02 49,539 35-39 26,011 7.34 26,484 7.21 52,495 40-44 21,611 6.10 23,151 6.30 44,762 45-49 15,869 4.48 16,602 4.52 32,741 50-54 11,791 3.31 11,920 3.24 23,639 55-59 8,281 2.34 8,261 2.25 16,542 60-64 6,162 1.74 7,760 2.11 13,922 65-69 4,842 1.37 5,850 1.59 10,692 70+ 6,916 1.95 9,267 2.52 16,183 Total 354,470 100.00 367,361 100.00 721,831 Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, Guyana Survey of Living Conditions

54

Table18: Population Distribution by Administrative Region and Gender, 2002 Administrative Region
1. 2. Barima / Waini Pomeroon / Supenaam 3. Essequibo Islands / West Demerara 4. Demerara / Mahaica 5. Mahaica / Berbice 6. East Berbice / Corentyne 7. Cuyuni / Mazaruni 8. Potaro / Siparuni 9. Upper Takatu / Upper Essequibo 10. Upper Demerara / Upper Berbice Total

Male and Female Male as a Percentage as a percentage of of Total Population Total Population
3.1 6.5 13.7 41.6 7.1 16.6 2.1 1.2 2.6 5.4 1.61 3.27 6.93 20.32 3.51 8.30 1.11 0.70 1.34 2.68

Female as a Percentage of Total Population 1.52 3.25 6.81 21.23 3.54 8.25 1.04 0.54 1.27 2.68 50.23

100.00 49.77 Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, 2002 Census

Other demographic indicators appear in Table 19. UNDP projects that there would be no net growth in the population between 2002 and 2015. It is also projected that the urban population would increase by 7 percent between 2002 and 2015.

Table 19: Other Demographic Indicators Indicator Total population Annual population growth rate Urban population Population under 15 Population aged 65 and above Unit Million % % of total % of total % of total 1975 0.7 30.0 2002 0.8 0.1 37.1 30.0 5.1 2015 0.8 0.0 44.2 25.5 6.6

Source: UNDP Human Development Report 2004

II.2.2 Literacy level and language The NDS observes that in 2000, the illiteracy rate was 1.4 percent. Net primary school enrolment was 96.6 percent while the net secondary school enrolment was 53 percent. In addition, the NDS states that the levels of education among poor households are lower than those of the population as a whole. Most of the poor in Guyana live in the rural areas (Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper). They are largely selfemployed in agriculture or work as manual labourers. The levels of education among poor households are lower than those of the population as a whole. Less than 15 percent of these households would have completed secondary or higher level of education. Table 20 provides 2004 HDR indicators. Organizing these farmers into groups and helping them to empower themselves would be pivotal to the success of any production and marketing initiative.

55

Table 20: Literacy Level Indicators Year Adult literacy rate 1990 Youth literacy rate 1990 Net primary enrolment ratio 2001-02 Net secondary enrolment ratio 2001-02 Children reaching grade 5 2001-02 Tertiary students in science, math & engineering 1994-1997 Indicator Unit % ages 15 and above % ages 15 - 24 % % % of grade 1 students % of all tertiary students Value 97.2 99.8 98 75 95 25

Source: UNDP Human Development Report 2004

With regard to languages, Guyana is the only English-speaking country of South America. However, although English is the official language Guyanese living near to the Venezuelan and Brazilian borders also communicate in Portuguese and Spanish. In addition, Hindi is spoken by a small percentage of Hindus and several Amerindian languages are still spoken by groups of Amerindians, particularly some those living in Regions 8 & 9. II.2.3 Access to services The PRSP notes that dwindling public sector resources led to a marked deterioration in public health and educational services and to a rise in poverty. II.2.3.1 Health In the health sector, the decades of the 1980s and early 1990s witnessed several clinics and health centres that lacked basic facilities, personnel, drugs and medical supplies, thereby denying many poor people, access to health services. The PRSP notes that poor quality water often resulted in contamination and the subsequent spread of water-borne diseases, thereby contributing to infant mortality. There is still a long way to go to improve the health services, but in general there have been improvements over the last decade. Table 21 provides some indicators.

Table 21: Health Service Indicators Indicator Year One year olds fully immunized against tuberculosis 2002 One year olds fully immunized against measles 2002 Contraceptive prevalence rate 1995-2002 Births attended by skilled health personnel 1995-2002 Physicians per 1000 people 1990-2003 Population with sustainable access to affordable drugs 1999 Population with sustainable access to improved sanitation 2000 Population with sustainable access to an improved water source 2000 Infants with low birth weight 1998-2002 Children under weight for age (% under age 5) 1995-2002 Children under height for age (% under age 5) 1995-2002 Life expectancy at birth 2002 Probability at birth of not surviving to age 40 2000-2005 Public expenditure on education (% GDP) 1999-2001
Source: UNDP Human Development Report 2004

Unit % % % % Each % % % % % % % % %

Value 91 95 37 86 26 0.49 87 94 12 14 11 63.2 17.6 4.2

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II.2.3.2 Education In the case of education, inequities in spending across and within regions and sectors, an exodus of trained teachers overseas and difficulties in stationing teachers at interior and rural locations affected quality, access and enrolment. Public expenditure on education has been on the increase in recent years in an effort to alleviate the problem. Table 22 presents some selected indicators.

Table 22: Education Indicators Indicator Year Unit Public expenditure on education 1990 % GDP Public expenditure on education 1999-2001 % GDP Public expenditure on education 1990 % of total govt. expenditure Public expenditure on education 1999-2001 % of total govt. expenditure
Source: UNDP Human Development Report 2004

Value 3.4 4.1 4.4 8.6

II.2.3.3 Electricity Table 23 shows that over the last two decades, that electricity consumption per capita increased by more than 100 percent while per capita carbon dioxide emissions decreased fractionally by 0.2 percent.

Table 23: Electricity / Energy Indicators Indicator Traditional fuel consumption Electricity consumption per capita Electricity consumption per capita Per capita carbon dioxide emissions Per capita carbon dioxide emissions Year 2001 1980 2001 1980 2000 Unit % of total energy requirements Kilowatt hours Kilowatt hours Metric tons Metric tons Value 47.6 545 1189 2.3 2.1

Source: UNDP Human Development Report 2004

II.2.4 Rural-urban drift The GLCS indicates that in 1999, the urban population represented about 30 percent and the rural population 70 percent of the total population. Of the 30 percent, Georgetown constituted almost 21 percent and other urban areas 9 percent. In the case of the rural population, the rural coastal population accounted for 90 percent of the total rural population and the rural interior or hinterland areas the remaining 10 percent. Guyanas rural interior areas have always been sparsely populated. There is no data to suggest that this has changed over time. However, with respect to data on Georgetown and other urban areas, the GLCS noted that in 1992/1993 Household Income and Expenditure Survey, the population in Georgetown and Other Urban Areas was 21 and 11 percent respectively of the total population. By 1999, however, the population in the Other Urban Areas had decreased to 9 percent. The reduced urbanization between the two surveys was contrary to the worldwide trend and the reason offered was Guyanas large land mass.

57

II.3

Media and Telecommunications

II.3.1 Newspapers, periodicals and broadcast media II.3.1.1 Newspapers There are three daily newspapers: Stabroek News, Guyana Chronicle and Kaieteur News that are published in Guyana. In addition the Catholic Standard (a newsletter of the Catholic Church) and Mirror (a publication of the Peoples Progressive Party) are published weekly. Data on the two older Dailies provided by the GNBS shows that whereas the Chronicle sold 86,591 copies in 2004 that the Stabroek news sold 166,430 or twice as much. In the case of the Sunday publications, the Chronicle sold 203,352 to the Stabroek News 308,138 (Table 24). Corresponding data was not available for Kaieteur News, however, the generally held public view is that Kaieteur News is more popular than Chronicle. Table 24: Monthly and Quarterly Sales of Chronicle and Stabroek News Newspapers Sold in 2004 Months / Quarters January February March First Quarter Total April May June Second Quarter Total July August September Third Quarter Total October November December Fourth Quarter Total Total Chronicle Stabroek News Sunday Daily Sunday Daily 20595 8584 21358 15589 24817 8865 26937 14473 19991 8745 27237 14500 65404 26194 75532 44562 15615 8803 26933 13494 24888 8025 26232 13677 19277 8900 26060 14023 59780 25728 79224 41194 15619 9359 26306 13957 24573 8263 25799 14031 18963 8707 25762 13440 59155 26328 77867 41428 19013 8304 25488 13249 n.a. n.a. 25172 12907 n.a. n.a. 24855 13090 19013 8304 75514 39246 203352 86591 308138 166430 Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics

58

The following lists provide additional details on the newspapers: Guyana Chronicle Item Ownership Focus on agricultural and/or rural development issues Remarks Government owned. Printed and published by Guyana National Newspapers Ltd. A special feature on agriculture of the Sunday Chronicle is a product of the Communication Unit of NARI. The article is generally an aspect of production or management e.g. sheep production or pest management. Rural development or agriculture issues within the Sunday Chronicle could be covered within the Regional Highlights or Global Review sections. In the Guyana Chronicle, there is regular coverage of the major agricultural and rural development issues http://www.guyanachronicle.com Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown Tel: 592 226 3243-9 / 592 227 5204 Fax: 592 227 5208

Website address Other contact information Kaieteur News Item Ownership Focus on agricultural and/or rural development issues Website address Other contact information Stabroek News Item Ownership Focus on agricultural and/or rural development issues Website address Other contact information

Remarks Privately owned. Printed and published by National Media and Publishing Company Periodic coverage of agricultural and rural development issues

http://www.kaieteurnewsgy.com 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown Tel: 225 8465 / 225 8491 Fax:225 8473

Remarks Privately owned. Printed and published by Guyana Publications Inc. Regular columns and special features of Sunday Stabroek on agricultural and/or rural development issues include: A Gardeners Diary, Consumers Corner, Business Page and The World of Entrepreneurship. Apart from the Sunday Stabroek, there is regular coverage of the major agricultural and rural development issues during the week. http://www.stabroeknews.com 46-47 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown Tel: 592 225 3376 / 226 7206 / 227 4076 Fax: 592 225 4637

59

II.3.1.2 Periodicals Two popular Guyanese periodicals are Guyana Review and GEM. Guyana Review Item Ownership Circulation Focus on agricultural and/or rural development issues Remarks Privately owned. Published by Guyana Review. Printed by F&H Printing Establishment 2000 copies per month - 60 percent local [Guyana, Africa, Asia, USA, Canada and Europe] Publishes weather indicators form the Hydro-meteorological Service of the Ministry of Agriculture. Also publish Urban Consumer Price Index, economic indicators and financial indicators which include references to agriculture and rural development. In addition, the political report, business report and headline news sections as well as the local report on hinterland and rural news section include references to agriculture and rural development. http://www.guyanareview.com P.O. Box 10386, Georgetown, Guyana or 143 Ornouque Street, Queenstown, Georgetown Tel: 592 226 3139 Fax: 592 227 3465 Primarily major supermarkets and service stations

Website address Other contact information Delivery outlets GEM Item Ownership Circulation Focus on agricultural and/or rural development issues Website address Other contact information

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics, Marketing Manager Guyana Review and hard copies of Guyana Review

Remarks Privately owned. Printed and published by Guyana Entertainment Magazine Not available No features on agricultural and/or rural issues. GEM is a bi-monthly, travel, entertainment, culture, fashion and lifestyle magazine.

Delivery outlets

http://www.GemMagOnline.com P.O. Box 12396 Regent Road, Bourda, Georgetown Tel: 592 624 2751 International Sales & Marketing, Corbin Media Group, P.O. Box 255906 Boston, MA 02125 USA, Tel: 617 833 7482, Fax: 617 364 4637 Primarily major supermarkets and service stations
Source: Hard copies of GEM

II.3.1.3 Broadcast Media Radio Table 25 shows that in 2002, across all regions, that there were approximately 125,000 households that had radios.

60

Table 25: Number of Households by Region Having Radios in 2002 Administrative Region Number of Households 2272 3547 18390 57968 9005 23217 2059 591 1353 6912 125314

1 Barima / Waini 2 Pomeroon / Supenaam 3 Essequibo Islands / West Demerara 4 Demerara / Mahaica 5 Mahaica / Berbice 6 East Berbice / Corentyne 7 Cuyuni / Mazaruni 8 Potaro / Siparuni 9 Upper Takatu / Upper Essequibo 10 Upper Demerara / Upper Berbice Total Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics

Guyana has a single radio station, which operates on two frequencies, the Voice of Guyana 560AM and 98.1FM. The station is part of the recently formed, government-owned, National Communications Network (NCN) which also owns and operates Channel 11 television station. This radio station generally operates 18 hours per day and the signals are received in the coastal regions of Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 as well as in parts of Regions 1, 7, 9 and 10. Programmes that deal with agricultural and rural development issues include: The Vet and You, Community Call, Farmers Notebook and Sugar and the Nation. Television There are at least 19 television stations which for the most part rebroadcast US and Indian imports. Table 26 shows that13 of the 19 (68 percent) are based in Region 4, the most populous of the regions, which is also home to the capital Georgetown. Of the 19, only Channel 11 is owned by the Government of Guyana, the others are all privately owned. Table 26: Location / Headquarters of Television Stations in Guyana Region 2 Region 4 Pomeroon / Demerara Supenaam Mahaica Region 6 East Region 7 Region 10 Total / Berbice / Cuyuni/ Upper Mazaruni Corentyne Demerara / Upper Berbice Channel 8 Channels 2, 4, 6, 7/89, Channels 10/17, Channel 5 - Channel 8 -LTV 19 9, 11, 13, 14/65, 12, MMDS TTS 16/67, 18/69, 28, 46/102, 69 Source: Discussions with Media Personnel Note: Most of the Region 4 / Georgetown based TV Channels extend coverage to several other Regions. Two of the TV stations (Channel 6 and 11) broadcast 24 hours a day each day. Channel 13 generally broadcasts for eleven hours per day (12.00 noon to 11.00 p.m.) and Channel 7/89 for about five hours per day (5.00PM to 10.00PM). The other channels regularly broadcast for between six and twelve hours per day. In terms of programme content, only Channels 11 and 14/65 have programmes focused on agriculture. In particular, Channel 11 as the only government owned station, shows rural development initiatives throughout the country. The general opinion of viewers throughout the coast of Guyana is that
61

Channels 6, 11 and 28 have the widest coverage, allowing for viewing in the coastal regions of Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 and Region 10. Table 27 shows that in 2002, across all regions that there were approximately 120,000 households that had television sets. Table 27: Number of Households by Region Having Televisions in 2002 Number of Households 1 Barima / Waini 473 2 Pomeroon / Supenaam 2674 3 Essequibo Islands / West Demerara 17957 4 Demerara / Mahaica 58182 5 Mahaica / Berbice 8149 6 East Berbice / Corentyne 23096 7 Cuyuni / Mazaruni 1734 8 Potaro / Siparuni 1212 9 Upper Takatu / Upper Essequibo 255 10 Upper Demerara / Upper Berbice 6749 120481 Total Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics II.3.2 Telecommunication services Guyanas country code is 592. This code is followed by a seven digit number for all areas of the country. Direct dialing is available from Guyana to any country in the world. The major Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) offices in the country have public facilities for overseas calls and there are several public telephone booths scattered throughout the country. These are accessed through the use of telephone cards which are sold by approved dealers. The completion of the Americas II cable has provided Guyana an international fibre optic link. The country has 100 percent digital switching and a full range of valueadded customer services such as voicemail. The fibre network reached most of the coast areas as does a seamless digital cellular service. Guyana has Short Message Service (SMS) and voice mail on mobiles. In recent months a new provider of cellular phone services, Cellstar, has been accommodated by GTT. This came about after several years of delays. Indications are that the GOG is having discussions with Digicel another provider of telephone services. Table 28 shows that in 2002, across all regions that there were 92 telephone main lines and 99 cellular phone subscribers respectively per 1000 persons. This compared with 20 telephone main lines and 0 cellular phone subscribers respectively per 1000 persons in 1990. The general view is that these numbers have been significantly increased over the last two years, particularly in the area of the cellular phones. Actual numbers could not be ascertained. Administrative Region

62

Table 28: Telephone Usage in 2002 Compared with 1990 Item Telephone main lines (per 1000 people) Cellular subscribers (per 1000 people) 1990 20 0
Source: UNDP Human Development Report 2004

2002 92 99

In terms of cost, Table 30 captures the local per minute cost of telephone calls, within and between exchanges. The cheapest intra-exchange calls cost G$0.33 (Euros 0.0013) per minute at the off peak time and G$0.66 (Euros 0.0026) per minute during peak hours. Across all 28 exchanges, the minimum cost per minute for a local, out of exchange call (off peak / peak) is G$2.20 / G$3.30 (Euros 0.0086 / Euros 0.0129) while the maximum cost (off peak / peak) is G$5.50 / G$7.70 (Euros 0.0215 / Euros 0.03). II.3.3 Computers and the Internet Computers Table 29 shows that in 2002, across all regions that there were about 11,000 households that had computers. Table 29: Number of Households by Region Having Computers in 2002 Administrative Region 1 Barima / Waini 2 Pomeroon / Supenaam 3 Essequibo Islands / West Demerara 4 Demerara / Mahaica 5 Mahaica / Berbice 6 East Berbice / Corentyne 7 Cuyuni / Mazaruni 8 Potaro / Siparuni 9 Upper Takatu / Upper Essequibo 10 Upper Demerara / Upper Berbice Total Number of Households 32 917 980 7032 258 952 114 7 28 451 10762

Source: Guyana National Bureau of Statistics

Internet access Internet service is available nationally from independent Internet Service Providers (ISPs). The major private sector ISPs are Guyananet (www.guyana.net.gy), Future Net (www.futurenet.com), Inter Net Works (www.networksgy.com) and Solutions 2000 (www.solutions2000.net). In addition there is a site that was developed through a UNDP sponsored Sustainable Development Project. This site is www.sdnp.org.gy and it provides links to mainly government ministries, NGOs, conservation groups and international organizations.

63

Table. 30: Guyana - Local Per Minute Telephone Rates Within and Between Exchanges

64

Some ISPs initially offered walk-in internet services at their offices but walk-in Internet access is more commonly provided by specialized Internet cafes which open for long hours into the night. Over the last three years in particular, internet cafes have become very popular. There are scores of them throughout the country inclusive of some of the interior areas and they range from very basic (part of a home or existing small business) to very sophisticated (independent business, air conditioned, carpeting, automatic time tracking devices, etc). The 2004 UNDP Human Development Report reports that in 2002, Guyana had 142 internet users per 1000 persons. According to the same source, in 1990, there was no internet user. The most popular form of service demanded by households in Guyana was the unlimited dial-up service. The monthly subscription was about G$6,000 (Euros 23.40). Fees for the dial-up restricted hour service ranged between G$2,500 4,500 (Euros 9.75 15.55) depending on the hours and the ISP (Table 31). Table 31: Monthly Cost of Internet Service Provided by Selected Internet Service Providers Selected Internet Service Providers Cost per Month for Dial-up Unlimited Hours G$ 6200 Cost per Month for Dial-up Restricted Hours Minimum Time G$ Euros (Hours) 2500 4500 4000 3800 3800 9.75 17.55 15.60 14.82 14.82

Internet Works

Telsnet Future Net Solutions 2000

6000 6000 6000

Euros 24.18 8 (12.00 midnight 8.00AM) 8 (8.30AM 4.30PM) 23.40 40 23.40 30 23.40 30

60

ANNEX III. PROFILE OF INSTITUTIONS

III.1 List of Institutions Involved In Agriculture And Rural Development
Table 32: Name, Contact Information and Role of Selected Organizations by Type3
i

No.
1.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Agricola East End Co-op Land Society Ltd. Agricola East Coast Demerara Akawani Perseverance Agriculture Producers Co-op Society Ltd. La Bonne Mere, Pomeroon River Aliki Chartered Co-op Land Society Ltd Aliki Essequibo River Ankoko Sugar Cane Farmers Producers Co-op Society Ltd Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo Annandale Producers Co-op Society Ltd Lot 160 North Annandale, East Coast Demerara Anns Grove/Two Friends Farmers Association Clonbrook Village Office Section B Cloonbrook, East Coast Demerara Anna Maria Co-op Land Society Ltd 68 Nelson Street, Mocha, East Bank Demerara Atkinson Field Co-op Land Society Ltd. Soesdyke East Bank Demerara Baba Grant Farmers Co-op Land Society Ltd Crabwood Creek Village, Corentyne Bablyon Co-op Land Society Ltd No. 65 Village, Corentyne Banim Livestock Producers Co-op Society Ltd No. 64 Village, Corentyne Berbice Bengal Agricultural Co-op Land Society Ltd 50 Winkle, New Amsterdam

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

AS-F

2.

AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc)

3.

AS-F

4. 5. 6.

AS-F AS-F AS-F

7.

AS-F

8.

AS-F

9.

AS-F

10.

AS-F

11. 12.

AS-F AS-F

The list in Table 32 is selected from an original list of more that 900 cooperatives and credit unions and 300 friendly societies. The selection is based on the perception by an independent Cooperative Consultant that these are the most functional organizations.

61

No.
13.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Black Bush (Canje) Co-op Land Society Ltd., Port Mourant Estate Corentyne Berbice Bloomfield Cane Farmer Co-op Marketing Society Ltd Bloomfield, Corentyne Berbice Blyndaal Rising Sun Co-op Land Society Ltd Vryheid West Canje Berbice Bourda Co-op Land Society 159 Non Pariel Street Albouystown Georgetown Bread Winners Co-op Society Ltd No. 43 Village Corentyne Brighton Sunflower Co-op Land Society Ltd Brighton Village, Corentyne Berbice Brotherhood Agricultural Producers Co-op Society Ltd Lot 33 Owen Street, Kitty Burma Producers Co-op Society Ltd Dundee Mahaicony Bush Lot Sunflower Co-op Land Society Ltd, Bush Lot Village, Essequibo Coast Canal No. 2 Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Society Ltd Canal No. 2 Community, Center Canal No. 2 Polder, West Bank Demerara Central Corentyne Land Society Ltd No. 45 Village Corentyne Berbice Central Corentyne Livestock Rearers Society Ltd. Whim, Village, Corentyne Berbice Corriverton Crabwood Creek Livestock Rearers Cooperative Society C/o S. Sooknandan Carbwood Creek Cove & John Co-op Land Society Ltd Bachelors Adventure, East Coast Demerara Craig Milne Community Co-op Society C/o Nabaclis Community Center, East Coast Demerara Dartmouth Farmers Development Association Evergreen/ Paradise N.D.C Office- Dartmouth Essequibo Coast David James Scheme Farmers Association Community Building, David James Scheme, Adams Creek, Pomeroon River Domino Livestock Rearers Co-op Society Ltd Golden Grove Village, West Coast Berbice

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

AS-F

14. 15.

AS-F AS-F

16.

AS-F

17. 18.

AS-F AS-F

19. 20. 21.

AS-F AS-F AS-F

22.

AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land)

23.

AS-F

24. 25.

AS-F AS-F

26.

AS-F

27. 28.

AS-F AS-F

29.

AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply), RU RU

30.

AS-F

OT (marketing, input supply)

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No.
31.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Dunkheld Producers Co-op Society Dunkheld Essequibo Coast East Bank Berbice Co-op Land Society Ltd. 24 Hdinburgh Housing Scheme East Bank Demerara Regional Co-op Union Ltd Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara East Demerara/ West Berbice Regional Co-op Union Ltd Office Vigalastra Housing Co-Op Society, Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara East Mahaicony Poultry Rearers Association Office Of East Mahaicony Pig Rearers Association, Calcutta Public Road, East Coast Demerara Epsom Co-op Land Society Ltd Epsom, Corentyne Berbice Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara Fishermen Co-op Federation Ltd. Parika, East Bank Essequibo Essequibo/Pomeroon Fishermens Co-op Society Ltd. Lima Village, Essequibo Coast Fair Play Co-op Land Society Ltd No. 51 Village, Corentyne, Berbice Fear Not Producers Co-op Society Danielstown Essequibo Coast Free And Easy Co-op Cane Farmers Marketing Society Ltd Friendly Farmers Co-op Land Society Ltd No. 60 Village Corentyne Berbice Friendship Co-op Land Society Ltd Grant Friendship, Pomeroon River Frienddux Cane Farmers Co-op Society Ltd 158 Friendship Village, East Coast Demerara Good-Intent & Sisters Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Society Ltd Good- Intent West Bank Demerara Good Samaritan Co-op Land Society Ltd East Bank Berbice River Greater Georgetown Fishermens Co-op Society Ltd 1 Lombard Street, Charlestown, Georgetown Guyana Co-op Credit Society Ltd Co-Operative Dept, Brickdam Georgetown Guyana National Co-op Union Ltd. 178 Waterloo Street, Georgetown.

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

AS-F

32.

AS-F

33. 34.

AS-F AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) EX, PP, RU EX, PP, RU

35.

AS-F

OT (marketing, input supply), OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (input supply)

36.

AS-F

37.

AS-F

38. 39.

AS-F AS-F

OT (input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (and, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, inputs supply OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) FS EX, PP

40. 41. 42.

AS-F AS-F AS-F

43.

AS-F

44. 45.

AS-F AS-F

46.

AS-F

47. 48. 49.

AS-F ASF, BNK AS-F

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No.
50. 51.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Guyana Young Farmers Co-op Farmers Society Ltd Catherina, West Bank Demerara Guysuco Cozier Farmers Development Association C/o Mr. Bickram Rampersaud Cozier Canal Lower Pomeroon Haurroruni Co-op Land Society Ltd Lot 11 Friendship Public Road, East Bank Demerara Hague Back Dairy Farmers Cooperative Society C/o Abdool Majeed Razan Hopetown Co-op Land Society Hopetown West Coast Berbice Hubu Co-op Land society St Lawrence East Bank Essequibo J. A Multi Purpose Co-op Society Ltd 26 Queen Street Kitty, Georgetown Johannesburg Co-op Land Society Ltd No. 72 Village Corentyne Berbice Jackson Valley Co-op Land Society Ltd No. 73 Villake Corentyne Berbice Johns Clifton Co-op Land Society Ltd Tani Settlemrnt Port Mourant, Corentyne Berbice Kamuni Co-op Land Society Ltd Sisters Village Sideline Dam, West Bank Demerara Kamuni Potosi Co-op Land Society Ltd 204 Herstelling Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara Kumaka Co-op Market Society Ltd Kumaka Aruka River, Northwest District La Grange Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Society Ltd La Grange Village, West Bank Demerara La Retraite Stanleytown Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Society Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara Leguan Cattle Farmers Association C/o G. White La Bagatelle Leguan Fishermen Co-op Society Ltd La Bagatelle, Leguan, Essequibo River Leonora Dairy Farmers Cooperative Society C/o Deoroop Anna Cathrenia

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

AS-F AS-F

OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply)

52.

AS-F

53. 54.

AS-F AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, inputs supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (and, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, inputs supply OT (land)

55.

AS-F

56. 57.

AS-F AS-F

58.

AS-F

59.

AS-F

60.

AS-F

61.

AS-F

62. 63. 64.

AS-F AS-F AS-F

65.

AS-F

66. 67.

AS-F AS-F

OT (input supply) OT (land)

64

No.
68. 69.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Letter Kenny Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Society Ltd Letter Kenney Village, Corentyne Berbice Light Town Macaw United Co-op Land Society Ltd 86 Housing Scheme, New Amsterdam, Berbice Limlair No. 35 Cattle Farmers Association C/o Mr. Roopnarine Indal, No. 35 Corentyne Lusignan Farmers Services Co-op Society Ltd 30 Lusignan Pasture, East Coast Demerara Mabaruma / Hosororo Organic Cocoa growers Association C/o Barima / Waini Regional Democratic Council Compound, Mabaruma, Region 1 Mabaruma Sub - Region Farmers Association, Kumaka Market Center Bond, Mabaruma, Sub- Region, North West District, Barima / Waini, Region 1 Macouba Co-op Land And Society Good Faith Mahaicony Mainstay United Co-op Land Society Ltd Columbia, Essequibo Coast Makeship Farmers Association Lot 44 Auna, Makeship Essequibo Coast Manarabisi South Cattle Rearers Co-op Society No. 70 Village Corentyne Berbice Marfriends Co-op Land Society Ltd 17-23 Cuffy Koker Dam, Friendship East Bank Demerara Moblissa Dairy Farmers Co-op Society Ltd Moblissa, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, East Bank Demerara Mocha Arcadia Farmers Marketing Co-op Society Ltd Lot 76 Mocha Village, East Bank Demerara Mocha Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Society Ltd Lot 83 Section B Mocha Village, East Bank Demerara Mon Repos Cattle Farmers Association C/o L. Budhu 65 Mon Repos Pasture Muca Muca Brotherhood Agricultural Co-op Society Ltd Chance Mahaicnoy, East Coast Demerara Mullenburg Co-op Land Society Ltd No. 64 Village, Corentyne Berbice Naamryck Farmers Association C/o Mr. Clarence Sooklall Naamryck, EBE

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

AS-F AS-F

70.

AS-F

71. 72.

AS-F AS-F

OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply OT (marketing, input supply), RU

73.

AS-F

RU PS-P

74.

AS-F

75.

AS-F

76.

AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply)

77. 78.

AS-F AS-F

79. 80. 81. 82.

AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F

83. 84.

AS-F AS-F

85.

AS-F

65

No.
86.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

National Cattle Farmers Association St. Stanislaus Training Center, 69 Sophia Backlands, Greater Georgetown New Friendship Farmers Co-op Land Society Ltd Friendship, East Bank Demerara Nos. 52-66 Cattle Farmers Association C/o R. Bisnauth # 64 Village, Corentyne New Guyana Co-op Land Society Ltd Sisters Village, East Bank Berbice New Highway Producers Co-op Ltd. Kuru Kuru Access Road, Linden Highway New Hope Co-op Land Society Ltd. Craig Village East Coast Demerara New Sisters Co-op Savings And Land Society Ltd. Pln Rotterdam East Bank Berbice Nootenzuil/ Lowlands Co-op Society Ltd 28 Second Street Village, Nootenzuil, East Coast Demerara No. 53 Livestock Producers Co-op Society No. 53 Village, Corentyne Berbice No. 8 Rice Farmers Produce Co-op Society Ltd No.8 Village West Coast Berbice Para Bac Perseverance Producers Co-op Society Ltd Bachelors Adventure, East Coast Demerara Paradise Multi Purpose Co-op Society Ltd 8 Paradise, East Coast Demerara Parika Co-op Land Society Ltd Parika, East Bank Essequibo Perseverance Co-op Land Society Adelphi East Canje Berbice

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

AS-F

EX, PP, RG, RU

87.

AS-F

88.

AS-F

89.

AS-F

90. 91.

AS-F AS-F

92.

AS-F

93. 94. 95. 96. 97. 98.

AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F

OT (Land, marketing, inputs supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing input supply) OT (marketing, inputs supply RU OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc)

99.

AS-F

100. Pomeroon Farmers Association C/o Market Center, Charity Essequibo Coast 101. Pomeroon Farmers Co-Op Marketing Society Ltd. C/o Charity Post Office Essequibo Coast 102. Port Mourant Follow Up Co-op Land Society Ltd Port Mourant, Corentyne Berbice 103. Port Mourant United Co-op Land Society. No 11 Ankerville Port Mourant Berbice 104. Port Resource Co-op Land Society Ltd Miss Phoebe Port Mourant, Corentyne

AS-F AS-F AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

66

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

105. Progressive Agriculture Co-op Land Society Ltd Ankerville Port Mourant, Corentyne 106. Queenstown Farmers Development Association Queenstown Community Center, Essequibo Coast 107. Queenstown Producers Co-op Land Society Ltd Queenstown Village, Essequibo Coast 108. Rampoor Co-op Land Society Rampoor Blairmont, West Bank Berbice 109. Region No. 2 Seed Paddy Growers Association, Industrial Site Street, Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast 110. Reliance Farmers Co-op Society Ltd Reliance Essequibo Coast 111. Reliance Lima Cattle Rearers Co-op Society Ltd Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast 112. Relief & Support Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Society Ltd Relief & Support, Supply, East Bank Demerara 113. Relief And Support Co-op Land Society Ltd Supply And Support East Bank Demerara 114. Richmond Henrietta Farmers Co-op Society Ltd., Henrietta Essequibo Coast 115. Rose Hall Peasant Cane Farmers Co-op Society Ltd. Rose Hall Village Corentyne, Berbice. 116. Rosignol Fishermen Co-op Society Carimage Road Rosignol West Coast Berbice 117. Rosignol National Catering Co-op Society Ltd, Rosignol, West Bank Berbice 118. Rosinante Agricultural Co-op Marketing Society Ltd. Farm County District, East Bank Essequibo 119. Rupununi Development Livestock Producers Co-op Society Ltd Aishalton, Rupununi 120. Sanacalli Farmers/ Fishermen Development Association C/o Leslie Jones-Sanacalli, Essequibo River 121. Seafield Co-op Land Society Ltd Seafield Village West Coast Berbice 122. Shieldstown Cattle Farmers Co-op Society Ltd Shieldstown, Blairmont, West Bank Demerara 123. Sisters Progressive Cane Farmers Marketing Co-op Society Ltd 91 Post Office Street, Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara 124. Skeldon Agricultural Co-op Land Society Queenstown Settlement, Skeldon, Corentyne

AS-F

AS-F AS-F

AS-F

AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply), RU OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, inputs supply etc) RG, TR, TM OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (input supply) OT (marketing) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (input supply), OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, inputs supply OT (marketing, inputs supply OT (land, marketing, input supply etc)

AS-F

AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F AS-F

AS-F AS-F

AS-F AS-F

AS-F

67

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

125. Skeldon Cane Farmers Co-op Marketing Co-op Ltd Skeldon, Corentyne Berbice 126. Smythfield Co-op Society Ltd Smythfield New Amsterdam 127. South Spring Garden Farmers Association C/o Raywattee Nraayans Residence, Lot 28 Spring Garden, Essequibo Coast 128. Sparta Co-op Land Society Ltd Sparta Essequibo Coast 129. Strathaven Farmers Co-op Society Ltd Strathaven East Coast Demerara 130. Supernaam Farmers Association Supernaam Marketing Center Essequibo Coast 131. The Johns Foreshore Co-op Land And Society Ltd, Tain Settlement Corentyne Berbice 132. Triumph Backlands, Cattle Farmers Association C/o Rampersaud Bhagwandas 83/84 Triumph Side Line Dam, E.C.D. 133. Uitvlugt Metenmeerzorg Dairy Farmers Association C/o Mohammed Inshan Metenmeerzorg 134. Unions Farmers Co-op Land Society Ltd No 53 Village Corentyne Berbice. 135. United Farmers (Corentyne) Co-op Land Society Ltd No. 48 Village Berbice 136. United Farmers No. 43 Co-op Land Society Ltd Joppa Farmers, Corentyne Berbice 137. Unu Creek Fisherman Development Association Hindu Temple Compound, Cullen Old Road, Essequibo Coast 138. Upper Canjie Creek Livestock Rearers Co-op Society Ltd 75 Tuber Park, New Amsterdam, Berbice 139. Upper Corentyne Agricultural Producers Co-op Marketing Society Ltd No. 71 Village Corentyne Berbice 140. Upper Corentyne Fishermens Co-Op Society Ltd No. 79 Village, Corentyne Berbice 141. Vergenogen Hardworkers Cane Farmers Producers Co-op Society Ltd Stewartville, West Coast Demerara 142. Vergenoegen Peasant Cane Farmers Producers Co-op Society Ltd Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo 143. Vergenoegen Rice MilL Co-op Society Ltd. Vergenoegen East Bank Essequibo

AS-F AS-F AS-F

OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply), RU OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (land)

AS-F

AS-F AS-F AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (input supply)

AS-F AS-F

OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing input supply) OT (input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing, input, supply)

AS-F AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

68

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

144. Vied-En-Vrieden-Schap Co- operative Land Society Ltd Cheseny Road, Albion, Corentyne 145. Vryheid / Caracas Co-op Land Society Ltd Vryheid, West Canje Berbice 146. West Berbice / Abary Cattle Farmers Association Lot 7, Kingelly, West Coast Berbice 147. West Demerara Co-op Market Society Ltd Leonara, West Coast Demerara 148. West Demerara/Essequibo Islands Regional Co-op Union Ltd. Vreed-En-Hoop, West Bank Demerara 149. Yarowkabra Perseverance Land Co-op Society Ltd 52 Renus Street, Agricola, Greater Georgetown 150. Zambesi Co-op Land Society Ltd Hauraruni, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway 151. Zambia Land Co-op Society Ltd Zambia, Mibikuri South, Black Bush Polder 152. Zorg Co-op Land And Society Ltd. Reliance Abandon East Canje Berbice 153. Adventure Womens Organization Lot E Adventure, Essequibo Coast 154. Airy Hall Women's Development Group Kumarie Mohameds Residence. Airy Hall, Essequibo Coast 155. Akashbani Womens Group 84 George St. Marias Lodge, Essequibo Coast 156. Aliki Women's Handicraft And Development Association C/o Aliki Primary School, East Bank Essequibo 157. Aurora Womens Development Group Lot 84 Aurora, Village, Essequibo Coast 158. Bartica Womens Group Working for Progress C/o Jasmattie Dass 129 Mon grippa Hall Fourth Ave, Bartica 159. Bath Womens In Development Group C/o Bath Nursery School, Bath, West Coast Berbice 160. Blankenburg Womens Association for Social & Economic Development Lot DD Blankenburg, WCD 161. Canal No. 2 Womens Development Group C/o Ms. Ivy Khemraj Lot 12 Endeavour Canal No. 2, WBD 162. Central Rupunni Womens Producers Group Lethem Region 9

AS-F

AS-F

AS-F AS-F AS-F

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (marketing, input supply) OT (marketing input supply) EX, PP, RU

AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

AS-F

AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W

OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) OT (land, marketing, input supply etc) EX, TR, RU EX, TR, RU EX, TR, RU EX, TR, RU RU EX, TR, RU

AS-W AS-W

RU

EX, TR, RU AS-W EX, TR, RU

AS-W

RU

69

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

163. Cleopatra Women's Development Association C/o Kameshwarie Kisson Lanaballi East Bank Essequibo 164. Cotton Tree Womens Development Group Cotton Tree Primary School, Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice 165. Crane Womens Development Group C/o Ms. Nirmala Deonarine Lot 9 Crane Village, WCD 166. Den Amstel Womens Development Association 24 Fellowship, West Coast Demerara 167. Doorn Haag/Kingston Womens Group LOT 25 Doorn Haag/, Leguan, Region Number 3 168. Enmore Womens Group Enmore Community Center, Enmore Estate Road E.C. Demerara 169. Free And Easy Womens Handicraft & Development Association C/o Altonise Charles, Free And Easy, West Bank Demerara 170. Friendship/ Buxton Womens Institute Friendship Community High, Friendship East Coast Demerara 171. Good Success Womens Group 30 Good Success, Wakenaam 172. Greenveldt Women For Development C/o Mrs. Bibi Nazmoor Persaud, 35 B Greenveldt W.C.D. 173. Guyana Federation of Womens Institute Lot 2 A Dowding Street, Kitty, Georgetown 174. Guyanaese Women In Development (Guywid) 220 Camp Street South Cummingsburg, Georgetown 175. Hague Womens Improvement Group Lot 7 Hague Front 176. Kitty Womens Institute Co-op Credit Union Society Kitty Village, Authority Hall, Kitty Greater Georgetown. 177. Leonora Women's Group Leonora Primary School, Leonora, West Coast Demerara 178. Lilydale Women's Group C/o Mavis Butchers Residence Grant, Hanover Square, Lower Pomeroon River 179. Lima Womens Group Lot 9 Lima, Essequibo Coast 180. Middlesex Womens Development Group Lot 28 Middlesex, Essequibo Coast 181. New Improvement Standard Women's Group Rohetta Williams Residence, Warapana Upper Pomeroon River 182. Onderneeming Womens Development Group Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast

AS-W AS-W

EX, TR, RU RU

AS-W

EX, TR, RU

AS-W AS-W AS-W

RU RU RU

AS-W

EX, TR, RU

AS-W

RU

AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W

RU EX, TR, RU RU EX, RD, TR, RU RU EX, FS EX, TR, RU EX, TR, RU

AS-W AS-W AS-W

EX, TR, RU RU EX, TR, RU

AS-W

RU

70

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

183. Orange Blossom Womens Handicraft & Development Association C/o Myrtle Nelson Residence, La Harmonie, West Bank Demerara 184. Orealla Fruit Cheese Womens Association Orealla, Corentyne, Berbice River 185. Orealla Womens Group Orealla Village, Corentyne River, Berbice 186. Perlem Womens Group Cullen Mandir, Cullen Essequibo Coast 187. Rising Sun Womens Group No. 74 Village, Corentyne, Berbice 188. Sanacalli Women's Handicraft And Development Association C/o Phyliss-Vulenzuela Sanacalli, Essequibo River 189. Second Street Zorg Women's Group Lot 61 Second Street, Zorg, Essequibo Coast 190. Stewartville Women's Institute Stewartville West Coast Demerara 191. Sunbean Womens Development Group Lot 10 Supply And Relief, East Bank Demerara 192. Sunflower Womens Group No. 19 Village, Corentyne, Berbice 193. Sunshine Women And Youth Group C/o 176 Ocean View Uitvulgt W.C.D. 194. Supply Womens Support Group Supply, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara 195. Victoria Womens Development Group 54 Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara 196. Victoria Womens support group Victoria Village Ea Coast Demerara 197. Viloorden Women's Group C/o Parmas Residence, Viloorden, Essequibo Coast 198. Warapana Women's Group Elizbeth Mithells Residence, Warapanna Upper Pomeroon River 199. Western Hogg Island Women's Development Association C/o Sattie Jeet, Western Hogg Island, Essequibo River 200. Womens Community Development Committee of Region 6 Hogstye Farm, Corentyne, Berbice 201. Womens Social Development Group C/o Sattie Persaud- Warapanna, Upper Pomeroon River 202. Zeelandia Caledonia Womens Group Zeelandia Primary School 203. Zorg Market Dam Women Development Group Lot 1 Zorg Market Dam, Essequibo Coast 204. Pomona Women And Youth Reaching Out Group Lot 123 Pomona Village Essequibo Coast

AS-W

EX, TR, RU

AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W

EX, TM, TR, RU RU EX, TR, RU RU EX, TR, RU

AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W

RU EX, TR, RU EX, TR, RU RU EX, TR, RU RU

AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W

RU RU EX, TR, RU EX, TR, RU

AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-W AS-Y

EX, TR, RU RU EX, TR, RU RU RU EX, TR, RU

71

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

205. Canopy- Columbia Youth Community Drop-Out Learning Center Taymouth Manor Primary School, Affiance, Essequibo Coast 206. Guyana Forum for Youth in Agriculture 18 Brickdam, Stabroek PO Box 101089, G/ town 207. Guyana Youth Network 96 Thomas Street kitty 208. Cecilene Baird Center For Dipag Lot 1 Public Road Triumph E.C.D. 209. National Union of Public Service Co- op Credit Union Ltd 4 Fort Street, Kingston, Georgetown Tel: 225 7123, 227 1491 210. Institute of Private Enterprise Development 253 South Road, Bourda, Georgetown C/o. Dr. Leslie Chin, Chief Executive Officer Tel: 225-8949, 226 4675 Fax: 223-7834 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.ipedgy.com 211. St. Francis Community Developers Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice C/o Mr. Alex Foster, President Tel: (592) 337 4090, 4092, 2446 Fax: (592) 337 4090 E-mail: [email protected] 212. Government Technical Institute Woolford Avenue, Thomaslands, Georgetown C/o Ms Sheeza Khan, Principal Tel: 226-4434,226-2460, 226-2468 Fax: 225-8356 213. St. Stanislaus College Farm & Training Centre 69 Sophia Backlands, Greater Georgetown C/o Mr. Kelvin Craig, Consultant Tel: 222-4750, 222 2991 Fax: 222 2991 E-mail:[email protected] 214. Guyana School of Agriculture Agric. Road Mon Repos East Coast Demerara C/o Ms. Lynette Cunha, Principal Tel/ Fax: 220-2297 E-mail: [email protected]

AS-Y

EX, TR, RU

AS-Y

EX, IN, TR, RU

AS-Y AS-Y, NGO BNK

RU EX, TR, RU FS

BNK, PRV

FS, TR

CHU, AS-Y,

EX, IN, FS, TR, RU

EDU, GOV

TR

EDU, NGO

TR, RD

EDU, STA

TR

72

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

215. University of Guyana, Faculty of Agriculture + Forestry Turkeyen E.C.D C/o Dr. Patsy Ann Francis Dean, Faculty of Agriculture Tel: 222 3599 / 5424 Fax:222 3596 E-mail: [email protected] 216. Ministry of Agriculture Regent Road, Bourda, Georgetown Dr Dindyal Permaul Permanent Secretary: Tel: 227-5527 Fax:227-3638 E-mail:[email protected] 217. Ministry of Fisheries Crops and Livestock Regent Road, Bourda Dr Dindyal Permaul Permanent Secretary: Tel: 227- 5527 Fax:227-3638 E-mail:[email protected] 218. Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security Cooperatives Division Lot 1, Cornhill & Water Sts Stabroek C/o Mr. Clive Nurse, Chief Cooperative Development Officer Tel: 225 8644 E-mail: [email protected] 219. Agricola Community Development Society 85 Second street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara 220. Amberville Development Association Lot 4 Amberville, Port Mourant Corentyne Berbice 221. Amerindian Peoples Association St. Ignatius, Lethem, Rupunni 222. Anns Grove/ Clonbrook Community Development Group Anns Groove Village, East Coast Demerara 223. Beacon Foundation Limited 127 Carmichael and Quamina Streets, Georgetown 224. Block 22 Development Group Community Skills Center Building, Block 22, Wismar Linden 225. Bush Lot Community Development Group Bush Lot Village, Corentyne, Berbice 226. Campbellville Environmental Development Association Compton Youth Center, First Street, Campbellville, Georgetown 227. Cane Grove Community Development Committee Lot 92 Sywah Scheme, Cane Groove, East Coast Demerara 228. Caria Caria Community Development Association C/o Pauline De Nieuenkik

EDU, STA

GOV

EX, PP, IS, RG, RU, TR

GOV

EX, PP, IS, RG, RU, TR

GOV

EX, PP, IS, RG, RU, TR

NGO NGO NGO NGO NGO NGO

RU RU RU RU RU RU

NGO NGO

RU EX, RU

NGO NGO

RU RU

73

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

229. Central Mahiacony Development Council C/o Conrad Charles Residence Lot 5 Far Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara 230. E.B.D. Community Based Rehabilitation Programme Lot 120 Parade Street Kingston, Georgetown 231. East Coast Demerara Community Based Rehabilitation Society Cove And John, East Coast Demerara 232. Global Outreach Guyana 124 South De Willem, West Coast Demerara 233. Global Sustainable Development Information& Training Center (Guybernet) 17 Garnett Street, Campbellivle, Georgetown 234. Goed Fortuin Community Development Committee 135 Taha Street, Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara 235. Haslington / Grove Support Group Haslington / Grove NDC Office, Nabacilis East Coast Demerara 236. Helena Community Development Group Helena No. 2, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara 237. Hinterland Welfare Support Group 29 Brickdam Georgetown 238. Hopetown Development Association 119 Semple Street, Hopetown, West Coast Berbice 239. Hopetown Home Economics- Parent Action Group Hopetown Practical Instruction Center, Main Street, Hopetown, West Coast Berbice 240. Ithaca Agriculture and Land Development Association Ithaca Village West Bank Berbice 241. Johanna Cecilia Community Development Group 61 Johanna Cecilia, Essequibo Coast Region # 2 242. Kumaka Citizens Development Committee Kumaka Waterfront, Region 1 243. La Retaraite Staleytown Community Development Committee Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara 244. Lamaha Park Community Development Group Lamaha Park Community Center Building, East LaPenitence 245. Mahaica Development Group Lot 71 Supply, Mahaica, East Coast Berbice 246. Mahaicony Community Development Association C/o Conrad Charles Residence, Lot 5 Farm, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara 247. Melanie Damishana Community Development Group 107 Mealanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara 248. Muritario/ Bootooba/Wood Working &Chainsaw Operators Association Muritario Bootooba/ wood Working Building

NGO

RU

NGO NGO

RU RU

NGO NGO

EX, IN, TR, RU EX, IN, TR, RU

NGO NGO

RU RU

NGO NGO NGO NGO

RU EX, RU RU EX, TR, RU

NGO NGO

RU RU

NGO NGO

RU RU

NGO

RU

NGO NGO

RU RU

NGO NGO

RU EX, RG, RU

74

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

249. North Pakaraimas Development Group C/o Paramakatoi Village Council Office, Paramakatoi 250. North Spring Good Land Development Association C/o Mahandra Mathora, lot 46 Spring Garden, Essequibo Coast 251. Perseverance/Annandale Community Development Group Hindu Temple Compound, Cullen Old Road, Essequibo Coast 252. Pouderoyen Community Development Committee Middle Street, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara 253. Private Sector Commission 157 Waterloo St. Georgetown Tel: 225 0977, Fax: 225 0978 E-mail: [email protected] 254. Profit Community Development C/o Mrs. Jean Singh-De Abreu Pln. Project W.C.D 255. Region 9 Indigenous Development Association C/o Rupununi Weavers Society, Lethem, Essequibo 256. Rockstone Community Development Group 17 Miles Rockstone Road Linden 257. Sirchi Community Development Association Sirchi Primary School, Upper Pomeroon River 258. South East Nabaclis Community Development Organization C/o Haslington Grove Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Grove 259. South Rupunni Conservation Society Dadanawa Ranch, South Rupununi, Region # 9 260. St. Ignatius Farmers Development Group St. Ignatius, Central Rupununi, Region 9 261. St. Monica Community Development Association C/o Village Office, St, Monica Upper Pomeroon 262. St. Stanislaus College Association St. Stanislaus College, Brickdam, Georgetown 263. Stanleytown Savannah Development Association C/o 95 Amsville Housing Scheme, New Amsterdam, Berbice 264. Supenaam Spring Gardens Development Group Supenaam Essequibo Coast 265. Victoria Community Development Committee No. 2 Victoria Village East Coast Demerara 266. Wakapou Community Development Association Wakapou Village Office, Lower Pomeroon River 267. White Angel Development Organization No. 29 Village West Coast Berbice 268. Wismars Community Development Group Silvertown, Wismar, Linden 269. Youth Peace Council Volunteer Corps 135 Sheriff Street, Campbellville, Greater G/town

NGO NGO

RU OT (land), RU

NGO

RU

NGO NGO

RU IN, PP, RG, TR,

NGO NGO NGO NGO NGO

RU RU RU RU RU

NGO NGO NGO NGO

EX, RU RU RU EX, IN, OT (varied forms of assistance to alma mater) RU

NGO

NGO NGO

RU RU

NGO NGO NGO NGO

RU RU RU EX, IN, TR, RU

75

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

270. Guyana Manufactures Association Sophia Exhibition Site 227-4295 271. Forest Products Association of Guyana 157 Waterloo Street, Cummingsburg, Georgetown 272. A & S Enterprise 34 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown Mr. Shaam Outar, Managing Director Tel: 223-0935 Fax: 220 7042 E-mail: [email protected] 273. Adventure Manufacturing Company Lot 5 Oleander Gardens East Coast Demerara Mr. Fitzroy Fletcher, Managing Director Tel / Fax: 222-4092 E-mail: [email protected] 274. Amazon Caribbean 46 First Ave., Subryanville, Greater Gorgetown Mr. Pierre St Arroman Tel: 226-5238, 226 2828 Fax: 226 9883 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.barima.com 275. Continental Industries 9-12 Industrial Site, Ruimveldt Georgetown Mr. Rakesh Puri, Managing Director Tel: 226-4041-3 Fax:225 3568 E-mail: [email protected] 276. Doodauth Singh Canal NO. 1, Two Brothers, West Bank Demerara Tel: 263 5734, 619-5930 277. Family Dlite 1767 Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt Park Ms. Vashti Warner, Managing Director Tel: 226-1539, 218 3990 278. Guy Fresh Traders 85 Soesdyke East Bank Demerara C/o Mr. Arjune Deonauth, Managing Director Tel: 628-2777 279. Jets Enterprise 56 De Kinderen Housing Scheme West Coast Demerara C/o Mr. Jethro Warner, Managing Director Tel: 275-0545 E-mail [email protected]

NGO, PS-M

EX, RG, TR

NGO, PS-P PRV

EX, IN, PP, RG, PS-E

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-M

76

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

280. Hauraruni Agricultural Development Company Inc. (HADCO) Lot 82 Collingswood Ave., Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara C/o Mr. Vincent David, Managing Director Tel: 227-7871, Fax: 233 5513 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.hadcofarms.com 281. K. P. Seepersaud Enterprise Area R Lusignan, East Coast Demerara C/o Mr. K. P. Seepersaud, Managing Director Tel / Fax: 220-8348 E-mail: [email protected] 282. Lochan Persaud 121 Durbana Square, Lamaha Gardens, G/ town Tel: 227-8689 283. Majors Food Manufacturing 13 Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara C/o Mr. Allan Major, Managing Director Tel: 256 0462 284. Mohammeds Manufacturing Lot 4 Lusignan Pasture, East Coast Demerara C/o Mr. Kahail Mohamed, Managing Director Tel: 220-6237, 624 3130 285. Moogoodies Food Company St Stanislaus College farm Complex 69 Sophia Backlands, G/ town C/o Mr Timothy McKintosh, Managing Director Tel: 222 4231, 624 4605 E-mail: [email protected] 286. New Era Enterprise Hague, West Coast Demerara C/o Mr. Krishna Seegopaul, Managing Director Tel: 268-2050, 227 8169 287. Omai Peanut Co. 48 Durban Street, Wortmanville, Georgetown C/o Mr Brian DeRushe, Managing Director Tel / Fax: 226-8803 288. P. Shameerudeen 218 Mon Repos North, East Coast Demerara Tel: 622-0118, 622 0116 289. RRT Enterprise W 107 Regent Road, Bourda, Georgetown 623-3998 290. Rajkumar Apiaries and Honey Works Zeezight, West Coast Berbice C/o Mr. R. Rajkumar, Managing Director Tel: 333-0803, 619 5638, 622 3366 E-mail: [email protected]

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-M

77

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

291. Ramkripaul Singh, Exporter of Fruits & Vegetables Two Brothers, Canal No. 1, West Bank Demerara Tel: 263-5733 292. Single Seafoods 10 Thomas Street, Kitty, Georgetown Tel: 225-8645 293. Sococo Inc. 1 Coldigen Industrial Area, East Coast Dem. C/o Mr. Soma Seagram Tel: 270-1179 E-mail: [email protected] 294. Sunshine Establishment 17 Atlantic Ville, East Coast Demerara C/o Mr. Riaz Khan, Managing Director Tel: 222-6801, 629 3918 E-mail: [email protected] 295. Synergy Holdings Inc. 117 John Smith Street, Campbellville, Sec. M. 223-7780 296. Tandys Manufacturing Ent. 19 Public Road Macdoom, East Bank Demerara C/o Mr. Bert Denny, Managing Director Tel / Fax: 225- 7623 E-mail: [email protected] 297. Tropical Rain Forest 108 Durban Street, Work-en Rust C/o Mr. E. Jack, Managing Director Tel: 223-6184, 226 0699 298. Wenrick Williams 69 Laing Avenue, Georgetown Tel: 223 2729 299. Young Womens Christian Association 106 Brickdam, Stabroek Georgetown C/o Glynis Alonzo Beaton, General Secretary Tel: 226-5610 Fax:223-7597 E-mail:[email protected] www: worldywca.com 300. Poor Rural Communities Support Services Project Den Amstel, West Coast Demerara Tel /Fax: 268 2393 C/o Mr. Harry Nawbatt, General Manager 301. Guyana Forestry Commission 1 Water Street Kingston C/o Mr. James Singh, Commissioner Tel: 226-7271-4 Fax: 226-8956 E-mail:[email protected] www.forestry.gov.gy

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-E

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

PRV

PS-M

REG

EX, RG, TR, RU

STA

EX, RG, TR, PP

78

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

302. Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission 22 Upper Hadfield St. Durban Backlands Mr Andrew Bishop Commissioner Tel:227-2582 Fax:226-4052 E-mail:[email protected] 303. Guyana Marketing Corporation 87 Robb & Alexander Streets, Lacytown, G/town C/o Mr. Nizam Hassan, General Manager Tel: 226-8255 Fax: 227-4114 E-mail: [email protected] 304. Guyana National Bureau of Standards Flat 15 Exhibition Complex Sophia C/o Mr. Chatterpaul Ramcharran Tel: 225-6226 Fax: 225-7455 E-mail: [email protected] 305. Guyana National Bureau of Statistics Brickdam, Stabroek, Georgetown C/o Mr. Lennox Benjamin Chief Statistician Tel: 227-1155 Fax: 226-2036 www: gnbf.info.com 306. Guyana Office for Investment 190 Camp Street, Lacytown, Georgetown Mr. Geoffery Da Silva Chief Executive Officer Tel:227-0653 Fax:225-0655 E-mail:[email protected] www.goinvest.gov.gy 307. Guyana Rice Development Board 117 Cowan Street Kingston, Mr Jagnarine Singh General Manager Tel:225-8717 Fax:226-2240 E-mail:[email protected] 308. Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA_ADA) Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice Mr Rudolph Gajraj Chairman, Board of Directors Tel: 641- 7285 Fax: 225-1209 / 225-1045

STA

PP, RG, TR

STA

EX, IN, PP, RD, RG, TR, TM

STA

EX, RG, PP

STA

IN, PP, RD

STA

IN, PP, RG, TM

STA

EX, PP, RD, RG

STA

RG, RU

79

No.

Name of Organization and Contact Information

Type of Organization

Role of Organization

309. National Agricultural Research Institute STA RD, TR, PP, EX Agric. Road, Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara C/o Dr. O. Homenauth, Director Tel: 220-2249 Fax: 220-4481 E-mail- [email protected] www.agrinetguyana.org.gy 310. National Drainage and Irrigation Board STA PP, RG Regent & Vlissengen Roads, Georgetown Mr. Ravi Narine Chief Executive Officer Tel:225-5005 Fax:225-5006 E-mail:[email protected] Sources: Cooperatives Division, Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security, Guyana Directory of Non-Governmental Organizations 1998, UNDP Georgetown Guyana, New Guyana Marketing Corporation, Consultants Research

Key - Type and Role of Institution AS-F Farmers association (includes co-ops) AS-W Womens association AS-Y Youth association BNK Bank or credit institution CCI Chamber of commerce and industry CHU Church-based group EDU Educational institution GOV Government department / ministry NGO Non-government organisation PRV Private enterprise, company REG Regional organisation or network STA Statutory body TE State enterprise OT Other (define) EX IN FS PP PS-E PS-M PS-P PS-S RD RG RU TR TM OT Extension and outreach Information services Financial services Policy and planning Exporter (fresh, frozen and dried produce) Manufacturer (e.g. tannery, bottler, refiner, roaster) Producer (e.g. commercial farm, fishing company) Supplier (e.g. chemicals, seeds) Research and development Regulation (compliance, standards) Rural Development Training (tertiary and vocational level) Trade and marketing (include development) Other (define)

80

III.2 Select List of Key Institutions

Name of institution: Guyana Marketing Corporation Objective / mission statement: To facilitate and co-ordinate the development and exportation of non-traditional agricultural produce from Guyana Field of specialisation: Marketing and technical assistance to farmers, agro-processors and exporters Number of staff professional, clerical, technical, etc; permanent / temporary): 22 total Professional 3, Technical 4, Clerical 14, Semi-Skilled - 1 Branches, other sites: Central Packaging Facility, Sophia Exhibition Site Annual budget: G$ 40.0 M (US$200,000) = Euros 154,000 Source of funding, incl. main donors / sponsors: Main source - Government of Guyana. Others through projects: USAID, FAO Programme / projects undertaken: Post Harvest training for farmers and exporters Expositions (Trade) / Caricom countries [Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, Suriname and Trinidad], Toronto, and Northern Brazil Target audience (plus number, actual or estimated): Farmers, exporters - 200 Importers and general public in overseas markets (5000 / country * 7 countries = 35,000) Extent of interaction with CTA Spore Magazine, SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars, consultants, publications: Spore Magazine Extent of collaboration / interaction with other institutions (name, nature): Ministry of Foreign Trade CARDI GTIS GOINVEST VSO Ministries of Agriculture, Fisheries, Crops and Livestock NARI IICA COLEACP Collaboration is mainly with respect to production, postharvest, marketing and trade related information.

81

Name of institution: Guyana Marketing Corporation How information needs are currently met, and from where or by whom: Organizations Caribbean Export Development Agency potential importers, export/ import data Ministry of Foreign Trade trade regulations USDA phytosanitary regulations Caricom Caricom agriculture production, trade statistics Ministry of Agriculture (Guyana, Barbados, St Lucia) general agricultural statistical data Customs and Trade Administration name of exporter, export volume of agricultural produce, destination of produce Bank of Guyana exchange rates, export volume and value Electronic Media Internet Other Fairs and exhibitions Consultants Colleagues Main information needs not satisfied: Prices in overseas markets, buyers information creditability, new buyers

Main problems faced in terms of information and communication management: Collection of national wholesale and retail price data; analysis / consolidation for timely dissemination; determining the types of information for different target groups; selection of the most appropriate methods of dissemination. Why institution selected as a key: New GMC is the designated agency responsible for the export promotion of secondary (non-traditional) agricultural of agricultural produce. The Corporation relates to a number of exporters (and importers) who are generally too small individually to run the gauntlet associated with the exportation of agricultural produce. New GMC facilitates this until exporters graduate. While GMCs focus is on the marketing/ trade/ export end of the continuum, the impact of successes in these areas is very significant in relation to the farming community. In addition, the staff at New GMC is computer literate, there is existing hardware and a database of prices, volume of produce exported, number of exporters, processors etc.

82

Name of institution: Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc. Objective / mission statement: To improve the quality of life of people by creating opportunities for youths, men and women and the elderly, to build life and job skills through the provision of quality adult education, skills training and social services. Field of specialisation: Education Skills Training Senior and Children Programme Community Outreach Counselling Literacy Library and information services Number of staff professional, clerical, technical, etc; permanent / temporary): Total 12 Permanent: Professional 7, Clerical 1, Technical 3 Temporary: Professional -1 Branches, other sites: None Annual budget: G$10.0 Million (US$50,000) = Euros 38,500 Source of funding, incl. main donors / sponsors: Main source self generated. Main donors: CIDA, BCCP, Canada Fund, UNICEF, Gender Equity Fund, Govt. of Guyana, GHARP, German Embassy Programme / projects undertaken: HIV/AIDS Awareness and Education Technical and Vocational Skills Training ( computer literacy, motor mechanics, plumbing, electrical) Training in Social Work Library service Target audience (plus number, actual or estimated): Youth - 6000 Women 4000 Extent of interaction with CTA Spore Magazine, SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars, consultants, publications: No interaction with CTA

83

Name of institution: Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc. Extent of collaboration / interaction with other institutions (name, nature) Adult Education Association of Guyana Institute of Distance and Continuing Education University of Guyana Guyana Forum for Lifelong Learning Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association Ministry of Education In general collaboration has been with respect to training out of school youth.

How information needs are currently met, and from where or by whom: Internet mostly for students and young people of the area Library service books donated by various sources Main information needs not satisfied: Technical information such as: pest and disease management, crop management, grading, packaging etc Main problems faced in terms of information and communication management: Reorganizing the centre to best serve needs of community expansion of internet caf service to better provide technical information (agricultural - such as crop varieties, livestock species etc as well as non-agricultural), economic information (agricultural and non-agricultural). Reorganizing and retraining staff to manage information within organization Why institution selected as a key: The RBCSTC is a small church based NGO located on the Corentyne Coast, about 120 miles out of Georgetown. It caters for women and young people in the area and in recent years has responded to the calls of the information age by providing training in computer literacy, computer repairs and by establishing an internet caf. There is no other agency in the immediate area providing the same type of service. RBCSTC has in the past been accountable and has used donor assistance wisely to meet specified objectives.

84

Name of institution: National Agricultural Research Institute Objective / mission statement: To plan, develop and implement research designed to produce technologies and systems required to maintain national self-sufficiency and export capacities in agricultural commodities Field of specialisation: Information, communication and agricultural services Organic agriculture Livestock and pasture development Biotechnology, plant genetic resources Entomology and plant protection Agronomy Horticulture Post harvest and agro-processing Soil and water management Number of staff professional, clerical, technical, etc; permanent / temporary): Categories Positions Filled Professional 12 Technical 60 Clerical 16 Skilled 13 Semi-skilled 29 Security 36 General staff 96 Total 262 Branches, other sites: Mon Repos Livestock Farm conducts research in the area of pasture management, small ruminants, poultry, ducks. Has incubation facilities. Fort Wellington vegetable seed research and propagation facility Benab plant nursery, provides training for farmers in area Black Bush Polder collaborative research and training programmes in rice cultivation, aquaculture, perennial crop production, IPM, improved vegetable production systems Kairuni perennial crop germplasm bank Timehri - plant nursery, provides training for farmers in area. Cocoa germplasm bank on the coastal plain. Charity - plant nursery, provides training for farmers in area St. Ignatius - plant nursery and livestock facility, provides training for farmers in area Hosororo - plant nursery mainly cocoa and shade plants, provides training for farmers in area Annual budget: G$220 Million (US$110,000) = Euros 84,700 Source of funding, incl. main donors / sponsors: Main source Government of Guyana. Other donors - FAO, PRCSSP

85

Name of institution: National Agricultural Research Institute Programme / projects undertaken: Establishment of communication network Upgrading of library system Transfer of improved production systems and crop types to various regions in Guyana Development of commercial organic farming zone and policy Improved rural agriculture system Strengthening of womens participation in agriculture Target audience (plus number, actual or estimated): Students and researchers 6,000 Farmers (male and female) and women in rural areas 3,000 Extent of interaction with CTA Spore Magazine, SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars, consultants, publications: Spore, publications. NARI personnel have in the past benefited from CARDI / CTA courses in technical writing, QAS and webpage designing. Extent of collaboration / interaction with other institutions (name, nature) Regional and International VSO entomology, Indian Technical Exchange Cooperation economics, marketing, cost of production EMBRAPA and ABC (Brazil) soyabean, cassava production technology, livestock International Network for the Improvement of banana and Plantain International Plant Genetic Resources Institute Asian Vegetable Research and Development Centre IRRI FAO CARDI IICA National Ministry of Agriculture University of Guyana Guyana Marketing Corporation Guyana Rice Development Board In general benefits include human resource training, information exchange, partial funding, information dissemination.

86

Name of institution: National Agricultural Research Institute How information needs are currently met, and from where or by whom: Organizations Various national, regional and international sources National agencies: MOA, GRDB, New GMC, PRCSSP, GNBS etc Regional agencies: CARDI, UWI International agencies such as: FAO, CTA, ICRISAT, IIMI, AVRDC, IICA Electronic Media Internet Agricultural research networks Other Fairs and exhibitions Consultants Colleagues The Director NARI has overall responsibility and through his office, links are made particularly to obtain hard copies of materials. However, individual scientists make extensive use of the electronic media. Main information needs not satisfied: Biotechnology Post-harvest technology Fruit and vegetable processing Organic agriculture production, sustainable agriculture Accurate domestic production statistics (crops and livestock) Agribusiness management Main problems faced in terms of information and communication management: Photography the institute does still photography. There is a need to digitalize this department. Need for a digital microscopic camera for the documentation of entomological and biotechnological work. Audio visual analog equipment is used for television editing and filming. This equipment is no longer compatible with modern day audio visual equipment. Human resources need for further training / exposure in the use of new equipment, preparation of public education, audio visual material, organizing information for website Library collection development, resources for the acquisition of updated materials have not generally been adequate over the years Other storage, analysis and consolidation of data and information for dissemination to specified target groups, absence of teleconferencing facilities. NARI like all other agencies in Guyana suffers from rapid staff turnover. Why institution selected as a key: NARI is the designated agricultural research institution in Guyana with responsibility for secondary commodities (non-traditional). The institute has the largest agricultural library in Guyana and an electronic database of its collection. NARI has a designated IT Department and a Communication Unit that are responsible for among other activities, the operation of the LAN, updating the web page, preparation of posters, brochures, newsletters and newspapers and TV programmes. NARI personnel have in the past benefited from CARDI / CTA courses in technical writing, QAS and webpage designing and recognize the benefits of closer collaboration with CTA.

87

Name of institution: Institute of Private Enterprise Development Objective / mission statement: To promote the growth and development of economic activities designed to improve the social and economic welfare of Guyana, through the provision of business guidance, technical assistance and nontraditional credit facilities to micro, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs. Field of specialisation: Loans to micro and small businesses Business development services (business skills training, market facilitation, knowledge and information sharing service) Number of staff professional, clerical, technical, etc; permanent / temporary): Total - 70, Professional - 5, Clerical - 27, Technical 25, Unskilled 13 Branches, other sites: Port Mourant Region 6, DEdward Region 5, Parika Region 3, Cotton Field Region 2 and Lethem Region 9. Annual budget: G$ 1,800 Million (US$900,000) = Euros 693,000 Source of funding, incl. main donors / sponsors: Main sources accumulated surplus, USAID PL480. Other GOG / IFAD project, EIB, IDB, CIDA and British High Commission. Programme / projects undertaken: Revolving loan project in Regions 2 & 3 for GOG/IFAD Business skills training Knowledge and information sharing service Target audience (plus number, actual or estimated): Micro / small farmers and businesses (75% women) - 4000 Micro-entrepreneurs (both IPED and non-IPED clients) - 5000 Extent of interaction with CTA Spore Magazine, SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars, consultants, publications: No interaction with CTA Extent of collaboration / interaction with other institutions (name, nature): MOA, NARI, New GMC, GNBS data on production, marketing, research, general statistics Aquaculture Station at Mon Repos joint project to promote aquaculture CDB (CTCS Section access to technological consultants for SMEs) SEBRAE of Brazil (transfer of technology in aquaculture, cashew and cassava cultivation)

88

Name of institution: Institute of Private Enterprise Development How information needs are currently met, and from where or by whom: Through collaboration with above stated organizations, via internet, booklets and publications from MOA, NARI, IICA, CARDI etc, personal collection of material Main information needs not satisfied: Trade and market information Cost of products Main problems faced in terms of information and communication management: Inadequate technical manpower Communicating the zero tolerance policy against late payments Why institution selected as a key: IPED is the leading bank focused at the micro level. It uniquely links credit and business skills development and access to information is a component of this novel goal. As an private business, IPED has used information and communication management to advantage and is poised to expose these principles to small farmers and business owners throughout the country. In addition, 75 % of IPEDs clientele are women most of whom live in rural areas. Any improvements in these areas would be of direct positive impact on women, their families and the respective communities.

89

Name of institution: Cooperatives Division Objective / mission statement: Mission: To guide, support, monitor and regulate cooperative development (among Cooperative and Friendly Societies) in the ten administrative regions of Guyana . Objective: To guide the Cooperative Movement to become truly autonomous and self-reliant, and to monitor and regulate the activities of Cooperative and Friendly Societies in accordance with statute. Field of specialisation: Monitoring the activities of Cooperative and Friendly Societies Regulating the activities of Cooperative and Friendly Societies Supervising the activities of Cooperative and Friendly Societies Number of staff professional, clerical, technical, etc; permanent / temporary): Headoffice 4 [3 technical and one clerical] (all temporary) Regional 5 permanent Branches, other sites: None Annual budget: G$ 11.0 Million (US$55,000) = Euros 42,350 Source of funding, incl. main donors / sponsors: Government of Guyana Programme / projects undertaken: Coordination of meetings with staff based in the regions and other agencies involved in cooperative development in Guyana Training programme for arbitrators Public awareness programme Sub-sectoral meetings National Cooperative Week activities Credit Union Month activities Target audience (plus number, actual or estimated): Cooperative Officers 10 Members of coop societies, credit unions and school thrift societies 200,000 Other collaborating agencies 10 Extent of interaction with CTA Spore Magazine, SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars, consultants, publications: No interaction with CTA

100

Name of institution: Cooperatives Division Extent of collaboration / interaction with other institutions (name, nature) Kuru Kuru Cooperative College Guyana Cooperative Credit Union League Guyana National Cooperative Union Other governmental departments and NGOs For all of above, collaboration is generally on information sharing, registration of societies, recognition / celebration of special days, planning, arbitration, auditing etc Caribbean Agricultural Research and Teaching Associates Centre (CARTAC) - consultants in legislation / rules of CUs Attorney Generals Office follow-up on legal issues relating to organizations How information needs are currently met, and from where or by whom: Organizations Individual cooperative societies / farm associations, credit unions, school thrift societies Cooperative Division - Regional Cooperative Development Officers (RDCOs) Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions - CCDO International Cooperative Alliance Registrar / Assistant or RDCOs Ministry of Agriculture and other such agencies CCDO or Assistant Electronic Media Internet - CCDO Other Fairs and exhibitions all staff Consultants all relevant staff Colleagues all relevant staff Main information needs not satisfied: Application of communication technologies Management of information within organization Training in various of running successful cooperatives Main problems faced in terms of information and communication management: Identifying between functioning and non-functioning societies Determining the asset base of societies Selecting, collecting, storing, analysing and consolidating data and info. Of societies in a manner to allow for easy and timely dissemination

Why institution selected as a key: This organization is a relatively small government division. It is charged with monitoring and supervising hundreds of cooperative and friendly societies, credit unions and school thrift societies. Many of the rural folk have no other access to credit or services other than through a group that the CD would overlook. Assistance directly to youth, women and farmer groups throughout the country is impossible as they are mostly not very organized. Specific assistance to the CD focused at the hundreds of NGOs would be of benefit to all stakeholders.

101

ANNEX IV.

LIST OF PERSONS CONTACTED / INTERVIEWED

Designation and Contact Information Deputy General Manager, New Guyana Marketing Corporation, 87 Robb & Alexander Sts., Georgetown Tel: 592 225 7808 Fax: 592 227 4114 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Chief Executive Officer Institute of Private Enterprise Development 253 South Road, Bourda Georgetown Tel: 592 226 4675, 592 225 8949 Fax: 592 223 7834 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.ipedgy.com Chief Executive Officer St Francis Community Developers Portuguese Quarters Port Mourant Corentyne, Berbice Tel: 592 337 2446 / 4090 Fax: 592 337 4090 E-mail: [email protected] Programme Manager Adult Education Association of Guyana Carmichael Street Georgetown Tel: 592 223 8816 Fax: 592 227 4114 E-mail: General Manager, New Guyana Marketing Corporation, 87 Robb & Alexander Sts., Georgetown Tel: 592 223 8816 Fax: 592 227 4114 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

No. 1.

Name of Person Contacted Ms. Celest Butters

2.

Dr. Leslie Chin

3.

Mr. Alex Foster

4.

Mr. Wilfred Gomes

Mr. Nizam Hassan

102

No.

Name of Person Contacted Dr. O. Homenauth

Designation and Contact Information Director, National Agricultural Research Institute Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara Tel: 592 220 2249, 592 220 2841-3 Fax: 592 220 4481 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.agrinetguyana.org.gy Programme Coordinator Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc. 161/168 No. 68 Village Corentyne, Berbice Tel: 592 338 2586 / 2644 Fax: 592 338 2644 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.geocities.com/rbbcentre Chief Cooperatives Development officer Cooperatives Development Division Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security Lot 1, Water & Cornhill Sts. Stabroek, Georgetown Tel: Fax: E-mail:

Mrs. Yetrawatee Katryan

Mr. Clive Nurse

103

ANNEX V.

REFERENCES

Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation 1998. Agricultural information needs survey. St. Augustine, Trinidad. Caribbean Centre for Development Administration. 1995. Report of a diagnostic review of the regional administrations. GOG/World Bank Public Administration Project. No. 2480 GUA.. Georgetown, Guyana. Government of Guyana 2001. Guyana Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper. Georgetown, Guyana. Guyana Dairy Development Project 2004. Final report 2001-2004. Partners of the Americas. Georgetown. Guyana. Guyana Marketing Corporation 2004. List of manufacturers and exporters. Georgetown, Guyana. Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture 1996. Review of cattle farmers associations in Guyana. Georgetown, Guyana. Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture, Canadian International Development Agency, Caribbean Regional Human Resource Development Programme for Economic Competitiveness 2003. Final report. Marketing organic produce grown in Guyana. Georgetown, Guyana. Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security, Cooperatives Development Division 2004. List of friendly societies in Guyana. Georgetown, Guyana. Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security, Cooperatives Development Division 2004. List of cooperatives and credit unions in Guyana. Georgetown, Guyana. National Agricultural Research Institute 2004a. Annual report 2003. Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, Guyana. National Agricultural Research Institute 2004b. Programme of work 2004. Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, Guyana. National Development Strategy 2001-2010 A Policy Framework 2000. Georgetown, Guyana National Dairy Development Programme 2000. Consulting services for the institutional strengthening of the National Dairy Development Programme. Final report. RDP Livestock Services B. V. Georgetown, Guyana. Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation 2000. Information for agricultural and rural development in ACP countries: emerging stakeholders, new media, and priority themes 2002. Wageningen, The Netherlands. Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation 2001a. CTA/CARDI/CAIS Stakeholders meeting 2001. Wageningen, The Netherlands. Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation 2001b. Strategic plan and framework for action 2001-2005. Wageningen, The Netherlands.

104

Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation 2002. Analysis of CTAs activities according to priority themes 1996-2000/2001. Wageningen, The Netherlands. Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation 2004a. Annual report 2003. Wageningen, The Netherlands. Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation 2004b. CTA draft programme of activities 2005. Wageningen, The Netherlands. United Nations Development Programme 1998. Guyana directory of non-governmental organizations 1998. Georgetown, Guyana. United Nations Development Programme 2000. Guyana: Report of the 1999 living conditions survey. Project Guy/96/551A/15/99, Strengthening National Capacity for Poverty Eradication. Georgetown, Guyana United Nations Development Programme 2004. Human Development Report 2004. New York, New York, USA. VanGrasstek, C. 2003. A National Trade Strategy for Guyana. MOFTIC. USAID. Georgetown, Guyana. Websites: www. agrinetguyana.org.gy www.bankofguyana.org.gy www.caricom.org www.cta.int/about/ssp.htm www.cta.int/about/training_support.htm www.cta.int/about/seminars.htm www.cta.int/icdd/quas.htm www.cta.int/icdd/sdi..htm www.cta.int/about/cdrom.htm www.cta.int/about/orderpub.htm www.devdata.worldbank.org/external/dgcomp.asp?rmdk=1108.smdk www.forestry.gov.gy www.ilocarib.org.tt/digest/guyana/guy06.html www.moftic.gov.gy www.op.gov.gy

105