Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has pointed to improvements in livestock breeding as part of the government’s efforts to increase meat and dairy production, according to a Ministry of Agriculture release.
Speaking at the second Ruminant Exhibition 2026, hosted by the Guyana Livestock Development Authority at the Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice, Mustapha said investments in animal genetics, infrastructure and technical support were creating opportunities for farmers.
The exhibition featured sheep produced by crossing Barbados Black Belly animals with local breeds. A farmer was also presented with a crossbred sheep developed from Barbados Black Belly and Dorper genetics.
According to the ministry, Mustapha said the government’s livestock programme emphasises improving the quality and productivity of the national herd through better breeding stock and modern animal husbandry practices.
He cited the Barbados Black Belly Sheep Programme as one initiative supporting genetic improvement. However, the release provided no figures on the number of farmers benefiting, the animals distributed or changes in production.
Several cattle breeds were also displayed as part of efforts to improve beef and dairy production. The ministry said these breeding programmes seek to produce animals with greater meat production potential, higher milk yields and adaptability to local conditions.
Mustapha told farmers, breeders and other stakeholders that the sector had made significant progress over the past six years. The release did not provide production data to support that assessment.
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