CAGRI, agriculture ministry train Barbadians to boost egg production

In a major boost to Barbados’ efforts to improve food security and address egg supply challenges, over 87 people took part in a successful Layer Cage Building Workshop hosted by the Centre for Agricultural Research and Innovation (CAGRI) at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.

Held on Thursday at the Ministry of Agriculture’s Animal Nutrition Unit, the hands-on Layer Cage Building Workshop provided participants with the skills and materials to build functional layer hen cages—part of a broader strategy to empower citizens to contribute directly to food security and reduce dependence on imports.

Barbados recently experienced a shortage in egg supply, a situation highlighted by the Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS). Factors such as increased demand and the time-sensitive nature of egg production have underscored the urgent need for enhanced local capacity.

The workshop was strategically designed to equip Barbadians with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to establish or expand their own layer hen operations, thereby directly contributing to alleviating this shortage and fostering greater self-sufficiency.

The Ministry of Agriculture supplied all necessary materials, enabling participants to collaboratively construct and receive functional layer cages, which were then distributed among them.

“We are immensely grateful for the Ministry of Agriculture’s unwavering commitment to this initiative,” said Dr Michele D. Singh, Director of CAGRI. “Their dedication to providing resources, a conducive learning environment, and the essential materials for this hands-on experience was instrumental in the workshop’s success. This collaboration exemplifies the power of collective action in addressing national challenges and creating sustainable solutions for our agricultural sector, demonstrating the ministry’s proactive approach to empowering our citizens.”

The comprehensive training, led by Dr Singh and the expert team from The Faculty of Science and Technology, focused on the efficient and humane construction of battery layer cages, emphasising best practices for hen welfare, feed and water management, and optimal cage design. Participants gained hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the principles behind successful layer hen management, positioning them to become key players in strengthening Barbados’ egg production capabilities.

CAGRI said it remains dedicated to fostering innovation and practical skills in agriculture, and this workshop served as a beacon of hope for a more resilient and self-sufficient food future for Barbados. (PR/BT)