DDL welcomes first shipment of breeding cattle for US$30M Moblissa Farm

Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) today announced the arrival of the first shipment of high-yield milking cows from the United States of America, marking a historic turning point for Guyana’s dairy industry. The 89 pregnant heifers, arriving via a specialised Amerijet charter at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), represent the first batch of a US$30 million investment by Demerara Dairy Inc. (DDI) to slash national dependence on imported dairy.

The arrival at 3:30 a.m. kicked off a sophisticated, three-hour logistics operation. Following strict biosecurity protocols, the cattle were transferred from aircraft to a fleet of flatbed trucks and transported under police escort to their new home at Moblissa on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Specialists from the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) and DDL executives oversaw the process to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare. The heifers are now being acclimated in a state-of-the-art facility designed with modern climate-control amenities to ensure maximum comfort and productivity.

This project is more than a farm; it is a strategic pillar in Guyana’s bid to lead the CARICOM “25 by 2025” food security initiative. By producing fresh, high-quality milk locally, DDI aims to displace a significant portion of the tens of millions of US dollars currently spent annually on dairy imports.

“The arrival of these ‘first cows’ is indisputable testimony to DDL’s commitment to being a game-changer,” said Komal Samaroo, DDL Executive Chairman. Samaroo added that ,”We are not just building a farm; we are building a sustainable industry that will transform Guyana’s agribusiness sector and provide long-term food security for the region.”

The successful arrival and transfer was made possible through the seamless cooperation of several state agencies. DDL extends its profound gratitude to: The Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as well as all the ground handlers, equipment operators and the staff of DDI for their diligent work which ensured an accident free and smooth operation on Saturday morning. (DDL)