Onverwagt Abattoir produces nearly 250,000 lbs of beef

The Onverwagt Abattoir in Region Five has produced more than 112,000 kilograms (or about 247,000 pounds) of beef as the facility continues to support livestock farmers across Guyana.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), Dr. Dwight Walrond, said cattle from Regions Two, Four, Five, Six, Nine and Ten, along with limited imports from Brazil through approved channels, have been processed at the facility.

While more than 1,100 farmers and 34,000 animals have also benefited from veterinary surveillance and animal welfare interventions in recent months.

The facility was recently fumigated and will start taking in animals for slaughter again this week.

According to Dr. Walrond, the level of activity at the facility fluctuates based on market demand, the availability of livestock and seasonal consumption patterns.

“Like every other facility, its level of utilisation depends on market demand, stock supply and because of our cultural practices in Guyana, we have periods where the utilisation of animal-based protein is significantly reduced,” he explained.

Dr Walrond said the government has continued to invest in expanding livestock infrastructure to create more opportunities for farmers rather than allowing facilities to deteriorate.

He also highlighted the authority’s veterinary services, noting that in recent months, the GLDA’s surveillance department has provided support to 1,137 farmers, while more than 34,000 animals received animal welfare interventions and relief assistance.

Dr Walrond encouraged livestock producers with concerns to report them through the proper channels so they can be addressed in a timely manner.