When completed, the abattoir will be opened to cattle from all the cattle producing Administrative Regions and the processing of meat will be done in keeping with sanitary and phytosanitary standards (SPS) insisted on by regional and international markets
Work on the IDB funded abattoir had started in 2018 but halted in 2019 in the run up to and aftermath of the 2020 general elections.
By the time it was stopped, the then Government had completed construction of a bridge and approach to the site , completion of provision of a potable water system for the site; preparatory work by the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL Inc.) to provide electricity to it and completion of a perimeter fence.
The work ground to a halt at this stage.
However during his presentation of Budget 2022 Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh disclosed that the current administration will facilitate completion of the abattoir.
The Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance disclosed that the establishment of the abattoir and related infrastructure will be supported by certification processes and traceability systems which will allow its products access to regional and international markets to the very lucrative benefit of local cattle farmers and employment seekers in the area.
A recent invitation for bids (IFB) issued by the Ministry of Agriculture disclosed that the project will cost approximately $465.2 million and that the period for the construction and installation will be 12 months.
A site visit and pre-proposal conference for the abattoir will commence on May 13 at the entrance of the Mahaica Mahaicony Abary – Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) also at Onverwagt.
The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) is expected to open bids from eligible contractors on June 14 leading to identification of a suitably qualified Contractor and resumption of the stalled project shortly thereafter.
