The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy has successfully imported over 2,000 bags of animal feed to alleviate the shortage which is currently affecting commercial and other livestock operations on island.
Reports indicated that farmers have been without necessary quantities of commercial feed to ensure adequate feeding regimes of poultry and other ruminants and after a meeting with local feed importers, it was determined that the regular shipments would still not be available on island by the original date of Friday 19th January 2024 hence the need for a quick action by the Ministry in obtaining a supply from the neighboring French Territory.
The consignment is presently on island and will be available for sale to farmers at a subsidized price of $50.00 per bag. Poultry layer farmers will be able to purchase up to ten (10) bags maximum, while farmers with chicks, broilers, pigs, rabbits and others five (5) bags maximum.
These quantities are to sustain the animals until the regular shipments arrive on island by the expected date of January 23 2024 through the Ministry’s collaboration with GEEST LINES and KING OCEAN to transship the cargo from St. Lucia into Dominica.
The Dominica Export Import Agency (DEXIA) is responsible for the sale and distribution of the feed. Payments will be collected at DEXIA Bayfront Office and pick up at the DEXIA packhouse located on Charles Avenue Goodwill, Roseau.
The Ministry also encourages farmers to be mindful that when reintroducing feed to laying hens after a period of deprivation, it’s best to start with small amounts of easily digestible, low-starch feed and gradually increase the amount over several days.
This gradual approach allows the birds’ digestive systems to adapt to the increasing food intake and reduces the risk of health issues.
The Ministry is appreciative to farmers for their continued patience and the confidence in Ministry to ensure that their livelihoods are maintained and protected.
