During a visit to Leguan on Thursday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali addressed concerns from cattle farmers regarding the ongoing shortage of beef in the country. He unveiled immediate and long-term measures aimed at boosting the local beef supply, starting with initiatives on the island.
The President revealed that he has instructed the Ministry of Agriculture to send a team to Leguan as early as next week to purchase all available cattle. “There is a tremendous shortage of animals across the country for beef. Next week, a team from the Ministry of Agriculture will come here with their own transportation to buy all the available cattle you have on the island and take them to our facility,” he stated.
The cattle purchased will be transported to the government’s abattoir at Onverwagt, Region Five, ensuring a steady supply for the local market.
Looking to the future, President Ali emphasized the importance of sustained engagement with local farmers, proposing that the government will establish a monthly purchase arrangement for cattle. “I have also asked that going forward, once every month we come to the island to buy the cattle right here and take it to the abattoir,” he affirmed.
Beyond addressing the immediate beef shortage, the President articulated a broader vision for expanding the livestock industry on Leguan Island. He shared plans to enhance cattle rearing while also boosting goat and sheep production. “We want to expand the livestock industry here. We want to build your goat production, sheep production, and cattle. The market is growing, and we want your island to play an important role in that market,” he noted.
To further support farmers and entrepreneurs, President Ali announced that citizens can access loans of up to $3 million through the Development Bank of Guyana. Additionally, he indicated that the government plans to co-invest with local citizens starting next year to help strengthen and grow their livestock businesses. This initiative aims to promote sustainable agricultural development and boost the local economy.
