Reg. 5 key part of Guyana’s livestock expansion plans – President Ali

President Irfaan Ali on Wednesday positioned Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) as a livestock hub for the country and wider Caribbean region.

While addressing the visiting delegation at the 52nd Ordinary Meeting of the South American Commission for the Fight Against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (COSALFA) held at the Pegasus Hotel, President Ali said Guyana is transforming the region into a livestock capital with a focus on high-bred sheep farming and broader meat production.

“We are expanding production and productivity across livestock, crops, and aquaculture. We have imported six thousand improved live animals in the past three years, alongside high-quality semen from Elite Sires, with an annual genetic improvement programme now valued at approximately one million US dollars,” the President said.

The President said Guyana’s status a disease-free Foot-and-Mouth Disease and growing investments in animal health systems provides a unique role in expanding regional trade with fewer sanitary barriers.

Guyana is backing its livestock expansion strategy with investments in diagnostics and research, including the procurement of PCR systems valued at about US$300,000, alongside bilateral agreements with biotechnology partners for applied research. Ali also pointed to discussions on establishing a vaccine manufacturing facility in Guyana with private sector involvement, as part of efforts to strengthen long-term regional preparedness.

Further, Ali said ongoing development of wharf facilities, road networks and silo infrastructure are vital to reducing bottlenecks and strengthening the movement of grain from farms to markets.

“We are transforming Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) into the country’s and Caricom’s livestock capital. This initiative focuses on turning the region into a livestock hub, prioritising high-bred sheep farming, inclusive of other livestock to increase meat production,” he said.

The President said the next phase will centre on positioning the country as a supplier within Caribbean agricultural systems.