The Livestock component of the UBEC CERC SVG Food Insecurity Project reached another significant milestone on Tuesday, 17th December, 2024 when a total of eighteen (18) cattle arrived at Argyle International Airport from Miami.

The new additions to the breeding herd consists of two (2) Black Angus males, four (4) Black Angus females, two (2) Red Angus females and ten (10) Red Angus females.

Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer and Technical Focal Point for the UBEC CERC SVG Food Insecurity Project, Mr. Colville King, highlighted that the cattle represents another investment in national food security. He noted that the new stock will serve dual objectives, which includes establishing a reliable breeding program and supplying superior genetics through artificial insemination. According to Mr. King, 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, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour, 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 Ministry of Agriculture's technical staff 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 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 of 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.

SOURCE:  Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour