Poultry production expanding to meet growing demand – Mustapha

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Friday said efforts are underway to boost local poultry production, with several large-scale projects expected to come on stream by the end of June.

Speaking at the GMSA’s Annual General Meeting held at Herdmanston Lodge, he said that the government has been working closely with young entrepreneurs to expand capacity within the sector.

As part of this initiative, nearly eight tunnel-ventilated poultry pens, each housing approximately 40,000 birds, are expected to be fully operational within weeks.

“This additional production will significantly increase the amount of poultry entering our system,” the minister said.

He added that that the move is aimed at strengthening food security and reducing reliance on imports. This is backed by recent disclosures by President Dr. Irfaan Ali of the country’s readiness to meet regional demand in livestock and feeding supply chain.

The minister said that there have been ongoing concerns about the importation of poultry meat, particularly as local demand continues to rise. However, he emphasised that the government’s targeted interventions are designed to address these challenges sustainably.

Demand for poultry products has been steadily increasing and in response, the minister urged stakeholders, including the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), to implement projects that expand local production capacity.

“With these interventions, we can work alongside the GMSA to implement initiatives like these and ensure that we meet national demand,” the minister said.

The expansion forms part of a broader strategy to modernize agriculture, empower young farmers, and build resilience within the country’s food production systems.