Belize Dairy Farmers Head to Honduras for Training in Modern Production

Belize’s dairy industry is looking to improve milk production and the quality of its cattle through new technology and training overseas.  A delegation of dairy farmers and other industry stakeholders is currently attending a technical programme at El Zamorano in Honduras. The participants are receiving training in cattle genetics, herd management and modern dairy-production systems.  Former Agriculture Minister Jose Abelardo Mai says the programme is exposing Belizean producers to methods that could help modernise the local industry and make farms more productive.

Mai says particular attention is being given to Gir-Holstein and Guzerat-Holstein crossbreeds. These cattle have reportedly performed well in hot, tropical conditions similar to those in Belize.  Discussions are also underway on the possible introduction of embryo-transfer technology and young heifers. The aim is to improve the genetics of Belize’s dairy herds and increase the amount and quality of milk produced locally.  Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture Servulo Baeza says the training is not limited to cattle and milk production. Participants are also learning how to improve the processing, quality and market value of products such as cheese, cream, yoghurt, ice cream and powdered milk.

CEO Baeza says the knowledge gained in Honduras can be adapted to local conditions, helping Belizean farmers produce more efficiently and compete with imported dairy products.  The initiative is being carried out in partnership with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture.