Agri. Ministry refutes businessman’s corruption allegations in poultry sector
The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), has issued a strong response to allegations made by businessman Terrence Campbell about corruption and inefficiency in managing inclusion body hepatitis (IBH) within the poultry sector.
The Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and detailed the extensive measures it has implemented to address the challenges faced by the industry.
In its statement, the Ministry explained that it has spared no effort in mitigating the impact of IBH.“In 2023, an intervention by H.E. President Dr. Irfaan Ali resulted in $29 million being expended by the Government to procure vaccines to assist with combating IBH,” the release noted.
“Given the climate, poultry population levels, and other factors, several vaccines were reviewed by a team of pathologists, virologists, and nutritionists with years of experience in the poultry industry.” Veterinarians attached to the GLDA have also been actively engaged in research to adapt global advances to the local context, the Ministry noted.
Additionally, the Ministry said it implemented an aggressive monitoring programme for hatcheries to ensure vaccines are administered at the most opportune times, enhancing their effectiveness.
Recognising the challenges faced by farmers, the government launched initiatives to provide support. “Over 1,500 farmers benefited from a poultry program spearheaded by the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) in collaboration with the GLDA,” the Ministry stated.
This programme supplied chicken to farmers who experienced production shortfalls, enabling them to sustain their markets. Chicken was sold at cost price through this initiative, allowing retailers to maintain profitability while ensuring consumers had access to affordable poultry products.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali also announced reduced financing costs for poultry farmers in 2023, underscoring the administration’s commitment to fostering growth and resilience within the sector.
The Ministry highlighted significant legislative and research milestones achieved under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration.
“In 2021, an autogenous vaccine was developed for the first time in Guyana, signaling a monumental achievement for the poultry sector in the country and the CARICOM region,” the release revealed.
Responding to Mr. Campbell’s claims of corruption, the Ministry declared, “The government has remained transparent with all issues faced and programmes and strategies implemented to further develop the sector.
“The Ministry reiterated its pledge to continue collaborating with stakeholders to address challenges and ensure sustainable growth within the agricultural sector.
