Onverwagt abattoir produced over 111,000kg of beef – GLDA

…says debates on facility must be based on facts not speculation

The Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has dismissed recent social media claims about the operations of its abattoir at Onverwagt, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), describing the allegations as speculative and unsupported by evidence. In a statement on Tuesday, the GLDA said the facility remains operational and continues to play a key role in the development of Guyana’s livestock industry. The authority noted that the abattoir was established as part of the Government’s strategy to modernise the sector by providing livestock farmers with access to a facility that meets modern hygiene and food safety standards. According to the GLDA, the investment was intended to improve meat quality, enhance food safety, create opportunities for value-added production, and support the expansion of domestic and export markets. Responding to allegations that the facility is inactive or has failed, the authority said production records tell a different story. Since becoming operational, the abattoir has produced approximately 111,650 kilograms (kg) of carcass beef, using cattle supplied primarily by farmers from Regions Four, Five, Six, Nine and Ten. The GLDA added that limited quantities of cattle have also been sourced from Bonfim, Brazil, through approved and lawful channels. The authority argued that these figures demonstrate that the facility is functioning and contributing to the growth of the livestock sector.

Scheduled slaughter
The GLDA also sought to address concerns raised by photographs and observations showing an apparent absence of cattle or workers at the site. It explained that an abattoir operates according to scheduled slaughter requirements and is not a cattle-rearing facility. As a result, the presence or absence of animals at a given time does not indicate whether the operation is active or inactive. The statement further rejected allegations that cattle are being secretly imported from Brazil for the benefit of public officials. The GLDA described the claims as serious accusations that have not been supported by evidence. It emphasised that livestock imports into Guyana are governed by veterinary, inspection, quarantine and certification systems designed to protect animal health, food safety and the integrity of the livestock industry. The authority urged anyone with credible information regarding illegal activities to report the matter to the relevant authorities for investigation, stressing that allegations of criminal conduct should be supported by evidence rather than rumours or anonymous claims. The GLDA also addressed accusations of corruption and personal enrichment, stating that such matters should be pursued through the appropriate legal channels and backed by verifiable evidence.

Ongoing investments
GLDA highlighted ongoing Government investments in herd expansion, genetic improvement programmes, animal health services and initiatives aimed at increasing productivity and strengthening food security. According to the GLDA, these measures are intended to build a more competitive livestock industry while ensuring a reliable supply of quality beef for local consumers. The authority acknowledged the public’s right to scrutinise Government investments and demand accountability. However, it maintained that assessments of the abattoir’s performance should be based on documented production records and measurable outcomes rather than assumptions or isolated observations. The GLDA said the success of the facility should be evaluated through its contribution to livestock producers, improvements in food safety and quality standards, and its role in strengthening Guyana’s livestock industry. While welcoming public debate and scrutiny, the authority stressed that discussions surrounding the facility should be guided by facts and evidence. It maintained that the Onverwagt abattoir remains an important national investment and continues to support the advancement of Guyana’s livestock sector.