No White Elephant: Onverwagt abattoir has produced 111,650kg of beef since opening, says GLDA

The abattoir at Onverwagt, Region Five, has produced approximately 111,650 kilograms of carcass beef since becoming operational, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) said, debunking claims on social media that the facility is a white elephant.

In a release, the GLDA said the allegations circulating online were based on speculation and misinformation, contending that production records show the facility is functioning and contributing to the growth of the livestock sector.

The authority said cattle processed at the abattoir were supplied mainly by farmers from Regions Four, Five, Six, Nine and Ten, with limited quantities originating from Bon Fin, Brazil, through approved and lawful channels.

The abattoir was established as part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise the livestock industry by providing farmers with access to a hygienic, internationally compliant facility for slaughter and processing, aimed at improving meat quality, strengthening food safety and expanding opportunities in domestic and export markets.

The GLDA also dismissed allegations that cattle are being secretly imported from Brazil for the benefit of public officials, saying Guyana has veterinary, inspection, quarantine and certification systems governing livestock imports.

The authority urged anyone with credible evidence of illegal activities or corruption to report the matter to the relevant authorities, adding that allegations of criminal conduct should be supported by facts rather than rumours or assumptions.