Large scale corn production planned for Guyana

Jul 05, 2010 News

Brazilian team to work with local farmers; focus on feed production

Stemming from the fact that it is sometimes difficult to obtain feed and other supplies for feeding livestock, Guyana is about to enter into large scale corn cultivation. This was revealed by Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud on Friday when he met with stakeholders of the poultry industry.

It is hoped that this venture would ensure the future of feed supply in the country and contribute to the supplies being adequate for feed producers.

Minister Persaud stated that there are several farmers who will be taking up corn cultivation, and experts from Brazil are expected in Guyana next week. The Brazilians will work with the local farmers to develop large scale corn cultivation.

The Soesdyke-Linden Highway has been earmarked, and according to the Minister, a group of farmers there will start cultivation in excess of 100 acres alongside the highway itself.

He said the venture will bring more local reliance to the industry and will make Guyana less exposed to difficulties.

Currently, all inputs for the livestock industry are imported, and this exposes it to the effects of international issues. Pointing out that there should be an early warning system to predict shortfalls in production, Minister Persaud said Government has planned the establishment of a Guyana Livestock Development Agency.

This agency will provide the resources and the independence to support the industry and examine laws and regulations relating to it.

It is hoped that this will help Guyana to break into the livestock export market.

Poultry producers and stakeholders on Friday told the Minister that there were several issues affecting the industry. Among these were the problems in obtaining feed and the end sale price not covering production costs.