Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, has reached out to the President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali, to address concerns regarding one of St Vincent’s primary commodities: rice.
This outreach was announced during his appearance on the “Face to Face” programme broadcasted by NBC Radio.
Disruptions in rice supply
Dr. Gonsalves detailed the difficulties his country is facing in procuring rice from suppliers in Guyana.
These challenges stem from production issues, including breakdowns and missed shipments in Guyana, compounded by a significant percentage of the crop being damaged due to a bug infestation.
Proactive measures for food security
With the ongoing supply disruptions, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of vigilance in the coming months.
He highlighted the critical period from October to Christmas, during which St Vincent and the Grenadines must avoid potential shortages.
In response to these concerns, he mentioned that the East Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC) is exploring alternative suppliers, including potential markets like Brazil.
Addressing the broader implications
The discussion on the radio show not only covered the immediate logistical issues but also touched on the broader implications for food security on the island.
Dr. Gonsalves expressed his concerns about ensuring a stable rice supply to prevent any adverse effects on the population, emphasizing the need for diverse sourcing strategies to safeguard against future disruptions.
