Dear Editor,
I wish to address a recent post circulated on Facebook by a page calling itself “Concerned Guyanese,” which appears more interested in creating confusion and misleading the public than presenting a fair and balanced view of issues affecting our country.
The page has sought to raise questions regarding the 2024 Auditor General’s Report and allocations made to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA). However, what they conveniently fail to tell their supporters is that the Auditor General’s Report clearly stated that the sums allocated were “FULLY expended as of December 31, 2024, and that audit checks revealed the amounts were properly brought to account in the records of the agency”.
Instead of presenting the full facts, they choose to selectively quote portions of the report to create suspicion and doubt. If they were genuinely concerned about how taxpayers’ money was spent, they would take the time to visit the many drainage and irrigation projects being executed across the country and witness firsthand the transformation taking place in our agricultural communities.
The NDIA has significantly improved the landscape of farming in Guyana through the construction and rehabilitation of drainage channels, irrigation systems, pumps, sluices, and other critical infrastructure. These investments have enhanced agricultural productivity, reduced flooding, improved water management, and positively impacted the lives of thousands of farmers.
Under the leadership of the Honourable Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture, the agriculture sector continues to experience substantial investment and development. Likewise, the leadership of NDIA, headed by Mr. Lionel Wordsworth, has played a key role in ensuring that drainage and irrigation infrastructure is properly managed and expanded to meet the sector’s growing needs.
Unfortunately, some individuals prefer to spread misinformation rather than acknowledge the progress being made. These actions mislead the public and undermine confidence in projects that deliver tangible benefits to farmers and communities across Guyana.
As citizens, we must remain vigilant against misinformation and seek facts before forming conclusions. Development is taking place, investments are being made, and the results are visible throughout the country for those willing to see them.