–     event set for this Sunday at Rising Sun Turf Club

PREPARATIONS are in full swing for the Guyana Livestock Development Authority’s (GLDA) Ruminant Expo and Competition, which will be held this Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Rising Sun Turf Club, Weldaad, West Coast Berbice.

The event, organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, is expected to draw livestock farmers from across the country for a day of exhibition, competition, and celebration of Guyana’s growing livestock industry.

Region Five—long hailed as the “Livestock Capital of Guyana”—is poised to dominate this year’s competition, with farmers preparing some of the finest breeds of sheep, goats, and cattle.

The Ministry, through the GLDA, has been spearheading a series of strategic initiatives aimed at transforming Region Five into the livestock capital of the CARICOM region, supported by sustained investment, training, and modern, climate-resilient practices.

Among the competitors are some of the region’s most dedicated livestock farmers, including Yvonne Morris of Golden Grove, who has over twenty-one years of experience in small ruminant production.

A past winner of the West Berbice Sheep and Goat Association’s Annual Small Ruminant Competition, Morris will showcase two sheep—a purebred Barbados Black Belly ram and a Texana crossbreed (a mix of Barbados Black Belly and Texel sheep)—alongside a mother goat and her two kids.

Morris expressed enthusiasm about the Expo, noting that each competition motivates farmers to raise their standards.

“I’m proud to represent Region Five,” she said. “Every competition pushes us to improve our breeding, management, and overall standards. The Expo shows how far we’ve come in advancing livestock rearing and management.”

Also representing the region is Mr. Baichoo, a veteran small ruminant farmer with more than thirty years of experience.

He currently manages a flock of 38 Black Belly sheep and a herd of over 80 Nubian goats, and his entries include a prized Barbados Black Belly ram and a Nubian Billy goat, both of which have earned him top regional honours three times in previous competitions.

While confident in his chances, Baichoo emphasised that the Expo is more than a contest. “Winning is an honour, but it’s really about showing what’s possible through dedication, proper nutrition, and excellent animal care,” he explained.

Another standout participant is Vidyawatie “Molly” Balram, one of the largest goat farmers in Region Five and a relatively new face in the sector.

Despite being a newcomer, Balram manages over 100 goats and 20 sheep and is entering her Spunious Billy goat, known for its glossy black coat and meticulous grooming. “My animals are my pride and joy,” Balram shared. “My Billy gets special treatment—almost like a spa day—because presentation matters.”

Lester Henry of Number Five Village, West Coast Berbice, will also be competing for the Best Ruminant title.

With years of experience in small ruminant farming, Henry attributes his animals’ condition to consistent care, balanced nutrition, and clean housing. “I’ve spent months preparing them,” he said confidently. “Region Five farmers take livestock farming seriously, and I have no doubt we’ll make our region proud.”

Secretary of the West Berbice Sheep and Goat Association, Debra Gopaul, described the upcoming Expo and the accompanying Fireside Curry Mutton Competition as both timely and transformative.

“This initiative benefits small ruminant farmers across Guyana,” she explained. “It allows them to showcase their animals, learn improved breeding and nutrition practices, and inspires youth and investors to see livestock farming as a sustainable and rewarding enterprise.”

Gopaul also lauded the GLDA and the Ministry of Agriculture for their unwavering support in strengthening the livestock sector.

She expressed confidence that Region Five will once again demonstrate why it is regarded as Guyana’s livestock capital.

The Ruminant Expo and Competition 2025 is expected to attract over 33 farmers from Regions Three, Four, Five, and Six, featuring 21 competition categories. The event will also include a livestock auction, fireside curry challenge, and technology and innovation displays, all aimed at promoting agricultural excellence and celebrating Guyana’s livestock heritage.