Agriculture Minister, Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha, met with small ruminant farmers from West Berbice,
where he reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to advancing Guyana’s livestock industry
and expanding economic opportunities for rural producers.
Minister Mustapha highlighted the significant progress already underway in pasture development,
explaining that 60 five-acre plots (300 acres) have been developed for small ruminant farmers across the
region. He reiterated that the government remains committed to reducing Guyana’s dependence on
imported mutton, particularly from countries like New Zealand, by building a strong, identifiable
Guyanese brand that can compete at the regional level.
“We are making major investments to modernize the livestock sector, and pasture development is one
of the most important foundations. We have already developed 60 five-acre plots for pastures for small
ruminant farmers from region five. We are building an industry, a brand for Guyana and the Caribbean.
Our goal is to develop a modern, commercially viable small ruminant industry that supplies Guyana and
becomes a major exporter within CARICOM,” he explained.
He further stated that the government had collaborated with Barbados to import 1,000 Black Belly
Sheep to boost the country’s genetics and breeding stock, and forms part of a variety of initiatives being
spearheaded by the administration to bolster production and diversify the economy.
Minister Mustapha reminded farmers that many of them have already benefited from improved
genetics and increased breeding stock through this initiative. He further confirmed that the distribution
of Black Belly rams has begun, emphasizing the importance of farmers upholding the guidelines of the
programme to ensure its success.
“We have started the distribution of breeding rams, but this support will only achieve its full potential if
farmers follow the programme’s management practices. We have to make a concerted effort to develop
this industry, and we need your partnership to make sure the benefits reach everyone,” he stressed.
Emphasizing the vision of His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Minister Mustapha said the
administration remains focused on transforming Region Five into the livestock capital of the Caribbean.
“This region has the land, the farmers, and the commitment to lead the Caribbean in livestock
production. We are building the infrastructure, providing the breeding animals, and delivering the
technical support so that Region Five becomes the heart of livestock development in CARICOM,” he
noted.
Following the meeting, the Minister also inspected the ruminant abattoir at Onverwagt, which is
scheduled to be commissioned in the coming weeks. He noted that the modern facility will provide
farmers with a certified, high-standard processing space that meets both local and regional market
requirements.
“This abattoir is another major investment that will help you get your products into premium markets.
Once commissioned, it will significantly elevate the value chain for ruminant farmers all across the
country,” Minister Mustapha noted.
