ECGC to take agri-business seminar to the region

THE EASTERN Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC) aims to take a recently conclude seminar for local livestock farmers to similar other farmers in the Caribbean.

The May 10-11 Agri-Business was attended by 87 livestock farmers under the theme, “Together We Grow”, a release from ECGC states.

“As ECGC continues to support Agri-industry, sustainability and food security through investment in farmers, the ECGC agri-business seminar, Together We Grow, will be executed across the Caribbean,”.

Several persons from stakeholder institutions addressed local livestock farmers the two day seminar.

Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer, in the Ministry of Agriculture, Colville King who make opening remarks on behalf of the Ministry and said, “There is a significant level of imports that is happening. Over $50 million worth of poultry meat is imported annually. That represents a significant employment opportunity if we can convert that and produce meats at a competitive price and good quality, then we can generate jobs.”

He added that with the growing number of hotel rooms that are slated to come on-stream in the next few years, there are additional opportunities for the production of various meats and meat products if the farmers do it well.

Business Development Field Officer at the Centre for Enterprise Development, Nisha Glasgow who was the featured speaker advised the farmers on how to better manage their businesses and become familiar with opportunities available through various funding and lending agencies. She also highlighted how farmers can grow their businesses and the importance of re-investing.

Meanwhile technical product manager of feeds at ECGC, Dr. Tahomma Richards, highlighted the importance of animal management and animal husbandry. She also encouraged the farmers to produce sustainably, considering the environment, the animals, and people on a whole.

Representatives of the General Employees Co-operative Credit Union (GECCU), and the St Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Co-operative Credit Union (SVGTCCU) gave the farmers financial tips and financial options that will help them to further develop and invest in their businesses.

Farmers who attended the seminar were given the opportunity to register for their Farmers’ ID. Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture also addressed the concerns of the livestock farmers on debilitating issues affecting the livestock sector.