GLDA refutes claims of abattoir failure, says facility produced over 111,000kg of beef since opening

The Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has strongly rejected recent social media allegations surrounding its abattoir at Onverwagt, Region Five, describing the claims as speculative, misleading and unsupported by evidence.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, GLDA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Dwight Walrond said attempts to portray the facility as inactive or unsuccessful ignore documented production figures and the critical role the abattoir plays in modernizing Guyana’s livestock industry.

According to the agency, the abattoir was established as part of the Government’s broader strategy to improve food safety standards, enhance meat quality, create opportunities for value-added production and strengthen Guyana’s ability to supply both domestic and export markets.

Responding directly to claims that the facility is not functioning, the GLDA disclosed that since becoming operational, the abattoir has produced approximately 111,650 kilograms of carcass beef. The cattle processed at the facility were supplied primarily by farmers from Regions Four, Five, Six, Nine and Ten, while limited quantities originated from Bon Fin, Brazil, through approved and lawful importation channels.

“These are verifiable figures and demonstrate that the facility is functioning and contributing to the growth of the sector,” the statement noted.

The Authority also sought to address criticism stemming from photographs showing no cattle or workers at the facility, explaining that an abattoir operates differently from a cattle farm. Animals are transported to the facility according to scheduled slaughter requirements, meaning the absence of livestock or employees at a specific moment cannot be used as evidence that operations have ceased.

The GLDA further condemned allegations that cattle were being secretly imported from Brazil for the benefit of public officials, describing such claims as serious accusations made without supporting evidence.

The agency emphasized that Guyana has established veterinary, inspection, quarantine and certification systems governing livestock imports to safeguard animal health, food safety and industry standards.

“Anyone with credible evidence of illegal activities should submit that information to the relevant authorities for investigation,” the statement said, adding that allegations of criminal conduct must be supported by facts rather than rumours or anonymous claims.

The Authority also dismissed accusations of corruption and personal enrichment, arguing that such matters should be pursued through legal channels and backed by evidence rather than sensational claims on social media.

Beyond the abattoir project, the GLDA highlighted ongoing government investments in herd expansion, genetic improvement programmes, animal health services and other initiatives aimed at increasing productivity and strengthening national food security.

While acknowledging the public’s right to scrutinize government spending and demand accountability, the agency maintained that discussions must be grounded in facts.

“Isolated photographs, assumptions and unsubstantiated allegations cannot outweigh production records and the tangible benefits being delivered to farmers and consumers,” the statement asserted.

The GLDA said the success of the Onverwagt abattoir should ultimately be measured by the opportunities it creates for livestock producers, improvements in food safety and quality, and its contribution to building a more competitive livestock sector.