Region Two farmers warned to keep livestock off roads

Some of the farmers at the meeting

Authorities in Region Two have urged farmers to secure their livestock, warning that animals roaming freely on roads have caused deaths, serious injuries, and extensive vehicle damage.

Last month, 18-year-old Enrico Rodriguez of Charity Extension Scheme died after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a stray cow on the Danielstown Public Road, Essequibo Coast.

Rodriguez was the pillion rider on a motorcycle driven by a 23-year-old labourer from the same area when the animal crossed the road, causing the crash. Both men were thrown from the motorcycle and injured.

Recently, Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Agriculture Coordinator Tamesh Ramnauth, Deputy Regional Executive Officer Omesh Sasenarayan, AREO Hastings, officers from the Guyana Livestock Development Authority, members of the Road Safety Council, and the Guyana Police Force held a series of meetings with cattle and small ruminant farmers across the Essequibo Coast to address this and related issues.

Officials stressed that responsible livestock management protects public safety, farmers’ livelihoods, and the reputation of the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Police Force briefed farmers on enforcement measures and said action will be taken against owners whose animals are found roaming on the roadways. The police also highlighted the shared responsibility between farmers, road users, and authorities.