A new government strategy is being drafted to revive growth in Barbados’ iconic Black Belly sheep population after the national flock has failed to expand, Agriculture Minister Dr Shantal Munro-Knight has revealed — even as Guyana reports a fivefold increase using Barbadian breeding stock.

The minister disclosed that figures presented to her showed the island’s flock had remained largely unchanged, prompting the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Nutritional Security to review the industry’s economics, sustainability and long-term growth strategy.

“The ministry is developing a plan going forward in terms of how we scale for the Black Belly sheep in a more sustainable way,” Munro-Knight told Barbados TODAY on Tuesday.