Excitement is building along the West Coast of Berbice as livestock farmers prepare to take center stage this Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Guyana Livestock Development Authority’s (GLDA) much-anticipated Ruminant Expo and Competition.
The event, which will be held at the historic Rising Sun Turf Club in Weldaad, promises to be a grand celebration of Guyana’s thriving livestock industry and the farmers who have made Region Five the undisputed “Livestock Capital of Guyana.”
From seasoned breeders to promising newcomers, participants from across the country are finalizing preparations for their animals—sheep, goats, and cattle alike—each one groomed to reflect the best of Guyana’s ruminant genetics, health, and husbandry.
For the farmers, the Expo is more than a competition—it’s a showcase of resilience, innovation, and pride in their craft.
A Showcase of Excellence
At the heart of this year’s event are farmers like Yvonne Morris of Golden Grove, a veteran in small ruminant production with over two decades of experience.
Having previously captured the top title at the West Berbice Sheep and Goat Association’s annual competition, Morris returns with high hopes and an impressive lineup—including a purebred Barbados Black Belly ram, an improved Texana crossbreed, and a mother goat with her two kids.
“Each competition pushes us to do better,” Morris said proudly. “It’s about improving breeding standards, animal management, and showcasing how far we’ve come as farmers.”
Also vying for top honors is Mr. Baichoo, a stalwart in small ruminant production whose flock of 38 Black Belly sheep and herd of over 80 Nubian goats have earned him regional recognition. His prized Barbados Black Belly ram and Nubian billy goat—both past champions—are expected to be major contenders once again.
“Winning is great, but what matters most is showing what’s possible through hard work, proper nutrition, and good animal care,” Baichoo stated, noting that every animal he raises represents years of dedication and selective breeding.
Among this year’s participants is Vidyawatie “Molly” Balram, one of Region Five’s largest goat farmers and a relative newcomer to livestock production. In just a few years, she has built an impressive operation of over 100 goats and 20 sheep, driven by a passion for animal care and a commitment to excellence.
Her entry—a striking Spunious billy goat with a sleek black coat—has already caught the attention of fellow competitors.
“He’s my pride and joy,” Balram said. “He gets the full spa treatment before every show—brushed, bathed, and pampered—because presentation matters.”
Adding to the lineup is Lester Henry of Number Five Village, a respected livestock farmer known for his disciplined approach to animal care. Competing in the Best Ruminant category, Henry credits his success to consistency.
“Balanced nutrition, clean housing, and daily care—that’s the foundation,” he explained. “Region Five farmers take livestock farming seriously. I’m confident we’ll make our region proud.”
The Expo, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture through the GLDA, represents years of effort to strengthen the livestock sector and position Region Five as the livestock capital not just of Guyana—but of the wider CARICOM region.
According to Debra Gopaul, Secretary of the West Berbice Sheep and Goat Association, the Ruminant Expo and the Fireside Curry Mutton Competition are transformative events for farmers and the wider community.
“This initiative allows small ruminant farmers to showcase their animals, learn better practices in breeding and nutrition, and inspire young people to see livestock farming as a rewarding career,” Gopaul said.
She also praised the GLDA and the Ministry of Agriculture for their continued support, adding a poetic tribute to the region’s farming legacy:
“Cows, goats, and sheep in fields so wide,
Feeding our nation with strength and pride.
From Berbice plains to Essequibo deep,
We honor our farmers and the herds they keep.”
What to Expect This Sunday
The 2025 Ruminant Expo and Competition is expected to attract more than 33 farmers from Regions Three, Four, Five, and Six, with over 21 prizes up for grabs across various categories.
The day’s activities will feature a livestock auction, technology and innovation displays, and the fan-favorite Fireside Curry Challenge, celebrating the culinary traditions tied to livestock farming.
As Guyana continues its drive toward agricultural modernization and food security, Sunday’s Expo stands as a reminder that the nation’s strength lies not just in its oil fields, but also in its fertile lands and the hardworking farmers who nurture them.
With pride, passion, and plenty of livestock on display, all eyes will turn to Weldaad this weekend—where Region Five’s farmers are ready once again to prove why they reign supreme in Guyana’s livestock story.
