Santo farmers drive growth in Vanuatu’s Cattle Industry, says MALFFB Acting DG

March 6, 2024 4:44 am | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Bruce Tamata.

The Acting Director General (DG) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, Fisheries and Biosecurity (MALFFB), Antoine Ravo, has acknowledged the huge contribution of local subsistence farmers in boosting the cattle industry in Vanuatu.

The Acting MALFFB DG made the remarks during the launching of the Port Olry Mini Slaughter House in Santo.

In his speech to the authorities present, Mr. Ravo stated said the latest Agriculture census has projected that Vanuatu has produced 171, 000 cattle heads of which most of the production comes from SANMA Province and where 63, 000 is produced by local farmers.

The Mini Slaughter House project was only made possible by the already existing number of butcheries that have been established around the area.

Such slaughterhouses will ensure minimum hygiene standards and animal welfare regulations are being adhered to before meat is being sent to butcheries.

It is highly anticipated that the introduction of this Mini Slaughter House in the production chain will consequentially contribute to upgrading standard of cattle industry in Vanuatu, as stated by Mr. Ravo.

He also acknowledged Santo local farmers for working in partnership with the Ministry to ensure there is progress in cattle restocking program of MALFFB, despite challenges of farming livestock, they continue to contribute to the industry.

Mr. Ravo mentioned the ministry aims to support local farmers to continue to boost cattle industry with the goal of not only increasing export, but also have some positive impacts on the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He added the MALFFB will continue to further support Santo farmers, by addressing genetics in order to adapt to changes in climatic conditions, and farmers access to reliable water supply.

The Acting DG extended his gratitude towards the Minister of Agriculture and the Prime Minister (PM) for appropriating VT32 million towards the recently launched Mini Slaughter House and Butchery project in Port Olry, which will boost the Livestock sector so that local farmers can meet international market standards.

The project was launched by PM Charlot Salwai, including MALFFB Minister Nako Natuman, during the PM’s recent official visit to Santo.