Poultry industry on the rise!
─ Virtual Regional Extension Service to be launched
DPI, Guyana, Thursday, September 26, 2019
Despite minor challenges like the temporary blockage on the importation of poultry by Trinidad and Tobago, poultry production in Guyana continues to rise matching not only international trends but the growing consumer demand.
This information was disclosed by the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Noel Holder during the Caribbean Poultry Producers 6th Annual International Technical Symposium held at the Princess Ramada International Hotel.
“The poultry industry is one of the fastest-growing agricultural sub-sectors, especially in developing countries, with an expected growth rate of 15% by 2027 [over 2017] whilst developed countries are expected to increase by 6% for the same period. This growth is driven by increasing populations, rising incomes and urbanisation.”
The Agriculture Minister pointed out that the poultry industry is a major job provider that also ensures food security, especially in Guyana, where the local diet comprises of mostly chicken as the main meat consumed.
“The industry remains an essential element in the effort to ensure employment and food and nutritional security domestically. It guarantees Guyanese a constant supply of fresh, healthy meat and is a primary source of animal protein in the local diet. For instance, it was found that chicken was the main meat consumed in Guyana at approximately 40 kg/person per year and represented approximately 70% of all meats consumed in Guyana.”
Meanwhile, in his remarks, Deputy-Secretary General of the CARICOM Secretariat, Joseph Cox, revealed a new initiative that could transform extension services in the region.
“The CARICOM Secretariat, in association with the University of the West Indies and CARDI, among other partners are actively working on the establishment of a virtual regional extension hub which will facilitate the provision of extension services through the farmers’ network but also provide a mechanism for feedback which can be actioned in real-time.”
This will be a part of the cross-border provisions for extension services that were approved by the Council of Trade and Economic Development.