New Layer Chicken Hatchery to Strengthen Food Security and Poultry Production

A new state-of-the-art Layer Chicken Breeder Farm and Hatchery facility has been inaugurated at the Bayford’s Livestock Centre of Excellence in St. Kitts, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s agricultural landscape.

Officially commissioned on Thursday, 31st October 2024, the facility is a key component of the Layer Chicken Industry Sustainable Development Project, a collaborative initiative between the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (Taiwan ICDF) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources. This project aims to bolster local food security by providing a reliable supply of over 20,000 day-old chicks annually for both meat and egg production, aligning with the government’s ambitious “25 by 25 Agenda” to reduce food imports by 25% by 2025.

Lin Chia-Lung, Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress during the commissioning ceremony. He underscored the importance of sustainable agriculture and the strong partnership between Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis.

“This facility is anticipated to produce 20,000 laying birds each year. While we should not count our chickens before they hatch, I am optimistic that this farm will ensure a consistent supply of eggs and poultry for local consumers,” he remarked.

Lin highlighted that this initiative not only promises food security but also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Samal Duggins, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, recognised the hatchery’s potential to enhance agricultural development in St. Kitts and Nevis.

“Today signifies a pivotal moment for our agricultural sector as we inaugurate this hatchery,” he stated. Duggins noted that the facility represents a strategic advancement in strengthening the local poultry industry, reducing reliance on imports, and fostering sustainable growth models. He extended his gratitude to Taiwan for its unwavering support, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by the Taiwanese government due to severe weather events.

The minister also acknowledged local farmers for their resilience in overcoming obstacles within the poultry industry and thanked them for their contributions to the hatchery project. The commissioning event was attended by notable figures including His Excellency Michael Lin, Resident Ambassador of Taiwan to St. Kitts and Nevis, along with various government officials from both nations.

Following the ceremony, attendees were given a guided tour of the facility, which features three chicken houses equipped with deep-litter systems and battery cage systems, a hatching room with four incubators, an egg storage room, water tanks, and an independent power generator room.

This new hatchery is poised to play a crucial role in transforming St. Kitts and Nevis’ poultry sector while reinforcing food security across the Federation.