El Niño Stakeholders’ Forum

Guyana Ministry of Agriculture hosted an El Niño Stakeholders’ Forum on August 27, 2026, at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, bringing together farmers, technical agencies, private-sector representatives, development partners and other agriculture-sector stakeholders. The forum examined the latest climate outlook and practical measures to safeguard agricultural production as El Niño conditions persist. Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha stressed the importance of responsible water conservation and management as reduced rainfall and higher temperatures affect parts of the country. The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority reported that water resources were currently adequate, while the Ministry highlighted ongoing measures to keep irrigation pumps operational and undertake excavation, drainage and irrigation works to improve water availability and distribution. The Hydrometeorological Service presented an updated outlook indicating that El Niño is likely to persist through the remainder of 2026 and could continue into early 2027. Farmers were encouraged to adjust planting schedules, irrigation practices and crop management, adopt climate-smart approaches and work closely with technical agencies to identify risks and protect farms and livelihoods. Preparedness measures also extend to livestock, fisheries and aquaculture and are intended to maintain agricultural production and strengthen Guyana food security.