YVONNE Morris of Golden Grove, West Coast Berbice, stands as a symbol of resilience, humility, and determination within Guyana’s growing livestock industry. Affectionately known among her peers as the “cow girl,” she has dedicated more than two decades to livestock farming, nurturing a flourishing enterprise of 50 sheep and 45 goats.

Born into a proud farming family, Morris grew up immersed in agriculture, learning the art of animal husbandry from her father, a seasoned cattle farmer with more than 40 cows.

That early exposure instilled in her a deep respect for farming and a determination to build her own legacy.

“Working for others never sat well with me,” she reflected. “I wanted to be independent and create something of my own that could support my family and community.”

Over the years, Morris has become a gentle giant in the West Berbice farming community—an industrious and thoughtful farmer who combines traditional wisdom with modern livestock management.

Her partnership with the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has been pivotal to her success.

When she received two high-quality breeding rams from the Authority, it marked a turning point in her enterprise, allowing her to improve her flock’s genetic line and productivity. Today, her farm includes a modern elevated pen system designed to meet national sanitation and animal welfare standards.

She is now focused on developing her own pasture into a fattening lot, designed to enhance weight gain and market readiness among her animals.

Although transportation to Georgetown for bulk feed purchases remains a challenge, Morris is hopeful. She welcomes the government’s ongoing support to help farmers increase profitability, particularly the recent removal of taxes on vehicles and other inputs critical to agricultural production.

“This initiative gives farmers like me real hope,” she said warmly. “Transportation accounts for a significant portion of my operational costs. I plan to apply for support to purchase my own vehicle so I can redirect those funds to expanding other areas of my farm.” She added that once approved, this investment would not only lower her long-term expenses but also increase her efficiency and independence.

Morris is equally optimistic about the planned Agricultural Development Bank, which the government has announced to improve access to financing for farmers.

“It’s often difficult for small farmers like me to meet the lengthy requirements of traditional banking systems,” she noted. “An agri-development bank will give us the confidence and opportunity to grow our businesses and strengthen the sector.”

A dedicated member of the West Berbice Sheep and Goat Association—which has more than 60 active members—Morris is deeply proud of the organisation’s role in advancing the small ruminant industry.

“We share our knowledge, challenges, and experiences,” she said. “It’s about collaboration and collective growth.”

Looking ahead to the upcoming Ruminant Expo and Competition, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture through GLDA and set for today, (Sunday, October 12, 2025), at the Rising Sun Turf Club, Morris exudes both excitement and confidence. Her animals, carefully groomed and well-fed, are ready to represent Region Five. “I believe they’re among the best,” she said with a smile. “They’ve been raised with care and managed according to all GLDA guidelines.”

Her enthusiasm also extends to the Fireside Curry Challenge, a highlight of the Expo’s cultural programme. With a twinkle in her eye, she revealed that she has a “secret recipe” she’s certain will help her win. “It’s something special that has been in my family for years,” she teased.

Morris welcomes the Expo’s focus on food safety and traceability, recognising their importance in ensuring consumer confidence and public health. “Food safety begins on the farm,” she stated firmly. “I’m very conscious of my responsibility to provide safe, quality food for our nation. I strictly follow GLDA’s production guidelines and practise minimal medication use because healthy animals mean healthy people.”

She also praised the introduction of new livestock breeds, particularly the Barbados Black Belly and Dorper, noting that crossbreeding between the two produces superior offspring.

“When you cross the Barbados Black Belly with the Dorper, the result is an animal that’s prolific, hardy, and ideal for meat production,” she explained. “They grow faster, adapt better, and yield more efficiently—exactly what we need in this changing climate.”

Cognisant of the challenges posed by climate change, Morris emphasised the importance of modernisation in agriculture. “Farmers must adapt,” she asserted. “We need to embrace technology, improved genetics, and modern production systems to remain competitive. I’m glad to see the Ministry of Agriculture and agencies like GLDA leading this transformation—it’s exactly what the sector needs.”

Morris also expressed deep gratitude to the GLDA for their continued support, especially to Chief Executive Officer, Dr Dwight Walrond and the dedicated extension team in Region Five. Their encouragement, she said, has helped her and many others build stronger, more resilient farms. “I am always thankful for the chance to share my traditional knowledge,” she reflected. “When we combine that with modern technology, we can truly transform livestock farming in Guyana.”

Passionate about the future of the industry, Morris is also a vocal advocate for the involvement of women and youth in livestock production. “I want to see more young people and women enter this field,” she said. “It’s not only a lucrative enterprise—it gives you independence and immense pride knowing you’re contributing to the nation’s food security.”

As the Ruminant Expo and Competition approaches, Yvonne Morris remains a shining example of what determination, knowledge, and community spirit can achieve. Her story is one of balance—between heritage and innovation, between passion and perseverance—and stands as an inspiring reminder that the heart of Guyana’s agricultural future beats strongest in the hands of its farmers.