NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) — The Bahamas Government is stepping up efforts to boost local egg production as part of a wider push to reduce the country’s reliance on imports and strengthen food security.

Prime Minister Philip Davis recently visited the Golden Yolk Project, an initiative aimed at expanding domestic production and increasing the supply of locally produced eggs to households and businesses across The Bahamas.

“Our Government is committed to producing more of what we eat here at home. Two hundred thousand eggs produced, 10,000 laying hens in production and another 8,000 pullets being raised show the capacity we are building.

“Our focus is to turn that capacity into a consistent supply of Bahamian-produced eggs, reduce our reliance on imports and create more opportunities for our people. Golden Yolk is a key part of our commitment to greater food security,” Prime Minister Davis said.

According to a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, Golden Yolk “is building the capacity to supply more locally produced eggs to Bahamian households and businesses”.

“Increasing domestic egg production is a key part of the Government’s broader strategy to strengthen Bahamian agriculture. The aim is to replace a greater share of imported food with local products, retain more spending within the Bahamian economy and expand opportunities for farmers and agricultural businesses.”

The statement said that the estimated 8,000 pullets that have not yet begun laying, represent an investment in future output and “as these birds mature, they will support the project’s capacity to sustain production and supply the domestic market”.

The statement said that the Prime Minister’s visit underscores the Government’s focus on ensuring that agricultural investments deliver practical results and that through Golden Yolk, “the Government is working to establish a stronger foundation for domestic egg production and reduce the country’s exposure to disruptions in overseas supply”.

“The Office of the Prime Minister remains focused on the project’s progress, with increased production and reduced import dependence central to the Government’s long-term agricultural strategy,” the statement added.