During a session with the Committee of Supply on Tuesday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha revealed that his ministry has blacklisted approximately 30 local contractors from future engagement in the agriculture sector due to delinquency and poor performance.
This disclosure arose amid discussions related to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) and ongoing pump station projects. Mustapha informed the committee that, in the last quarter of 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture submitted a list of delinquent contractors to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), indicating that these entities would no longer be considered for future contracts. He opted not to publicly disclose the full list during the session.
It is important to note that the process of blacklisting is not solely the responsibility of individual ministries; it requires coordination with procurement authorities and follows established procedures.
The issue was raised in connection with the delayed Belle Vue Pump Station project on the West Bank Demerara, a significant drainage and irrigation initiative aimed at mitigating flooding impacts. Originally awarded to Tepui Group Inc. for approximately $865 million, controversy arose when the project transitioned to a subcontracting arrangement with Gaico Engineering to complete the works.
In response to questions about whether Tepui had completed any work prior to this change, Mustapha confirmed that excavation efforts had been undertaken. He reiterated that the original contract permitted subcontracting and emphasized that Tepui remains ultimately responsible for project delivery. He noted that performance security measures, such as bonds, are in place to facilitate cost recovery should contractual obligations not be met.
Mustapha’s comments reflect a broader governmental commitment to enforce accountability among contractors who fail to meet deadlines or perform as required, which includes termination of contracts and the application of liquidated damages where appropriate.
