Oct 26, 2026
3 min read
Some 1,000 pregnant heifers bought from Brazil are expected to lift cattle numbers and local production, as the Government steps up funding and breeding technology for livestock farmers.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha made the disclosure at the Ruminant Exhibition 2026 at Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice, on Sunday.
"We want to develop the livestock sector," he said, adding that the Government has raised its allocations to support the industry, including through breeding programmes and direct support to farmers.
Mustapha said modern breeding technology is also being introduced to improve the quality of animals.
"We have now a new technology that we brought in where we are doing embryo transplant," he said, noting that animals produced through the programme were on display. About 300 embryo transfers were carried out last year at the Government's facility at Ebini, and more farmers will be brought into the programme to expand and improve their stock.
He said the country now has the capacity to feed its population without relying on imports.
The exhibition brought together farmers, livestock producers, stakeholders and members of the public. It featured categories of cattle, sheep and goats, along with the Fireside Mutton Curry Competition, which linked livestock production to local food traditions.
Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) Chief Executive Officer Dr Dwight Walrond said the large turnout and visitors' questions showed strong interest in livestock farming. Organisers changed the layout this year to simplify judging and viewing.
"This year, we would have done things a little differently, where we had all the different categories into one area to make the process much easier for the judges and for you, the farmers, to see," he said.
Walrond urged farmers to learn from the animals presented by their colleagues.
"When you look at what your colleague is doing, I'm sure you want to return next year with new zest to ensure that you can be confident among the chosen," he said.
He also acknowledged the Government's financial support for ruminant development.
"This year alone, we would have received more than $100 million, which went directly into rural development," Walrond said. "So it's more than $100 million for you, the farmers, that are here today. That alone should bring some joy to you, the farmers," he added.
He urged farmers to work closely with the GLDA to build on initiatives introduced at a recent livestock conference.
I trimmed the second paragraph's repeat of cattle numbers and production, since the lead now carries it.
