Ministry of Agriculture receives new cattle stock

The Livestock component of the UBEC CERC SVG Food Insecurity Project reached another significant milestone on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 when a total of 18 heads of cattle arrived at Argyle International Airport from Miami. A release from the Communications Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, states that the additions to the breeding herd comprised two Black Angus males; four Black Angus females; two Red Angus females; and 10 Red Angus females.

Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer and Technical Focal Point for the UBEC CERC SVG Food Insecurity Project, Colville King, highlighted that the cattle represents another investment in national food security. He noted that new stock will serve dual objectives, being the establishment of a reliable breeding programme, and supplying superior genetics through artificial insemination.

King said this approach will enable many cattle farmers to produce cattle with higher carcass weights, potentially increasing from the current average of 400–500 pounds currently, to as at least 700 pounds.

Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, emphasized the importance of food and nutrition security in the face of climate change and natural disasters, which have impacted local food production. He praised the technical staff of the Ministry of Agriculture and veterinary department for their efforts in sourcing and selecting the breeds.

Minister Caesar indicated that plans are in place to collaborate with the SVG Cattle Association and other stakeholders to expand the national herd. He also mentioned that farmers will receive technical assistance and support to develop business plans, secure loans, and maximize production.

The minister expressed confidence as well that by the end of 2025, cattle production will see substantial growth, and urged farmers to collaborate and work collectively to achieve this objective.

The SVG Food Insecurity Project seeks to enhance food and nutrition security by increasing the production and productivity of chosen commodities, particularly among business-oriented small farmers and fishers.

The project is being implemented by the Economic Planning Division within the Ministry of Finance,
Economic Planning, and Information Technology with technical support and coordination by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry, and Labour. It is being financed through a loan from the World Bank.