At present, Namibia imports approximately 48,000 tons of yellow maize and 36,000 tons of soybean oilcake annually for use in poultry feed. This heavy reliance on imports not only strains local financial resources but also presents an opportunity for enhancing local agricultural production capabilities.
The Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU) recently highlighted this potential in its latest newsletter. The Poultry Producers’ Association convened for its most recent members’ meeting at the beginning of this month, coinciding with an informative open day designed to promote the poultry industry and foster community engagement among producers.
The NAU emphasized that the event attracted a substantial turnout, including many new farmers eager to participate in discussions about the future of the industry. During this meeting, new leadership was elected: Louis Kleynhans was re-elected as chairperson, while Erastus Khadikwa took on the role of vice-chairperson. Additionally, Salathiel Mbungu and JP van der Walt were welcomed to the management team, bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the group’s leadership.
A key highlight of the day was a presentation by local veterinarian Dr. Kirsten Voigt, who delivered a comprehensive overview on vital topics such as animal health and biosecurity measures essential for the poultry sector. Her engaging presentation sparked considerable interest, prompting numerous questions and discussions that emphasized the industry’s continuous need for innovation and the importance of sharing knowledge among producers.
Furthermore, the NAU reported on an important update shared by the Livestock and Livestock Products Board (LLPB). The board outlined recent changes in regulations and import tariffs that directly impact poultry producers. It was reiterated that, effective immediately, all poultry producers and buyers must register with the LLPB to ensure compliance with updated legislation aimed at improving industry standards and traceability.
The event also highlighted the growing potential within Namibia’s poultry industry, not just in terms of poultry and egg production, but also in the agricultural sector, focusing on the domestic production of raw materials required for feed. By investing in local production, Namibia can enhance food security and reduce its dependency on imports.
As the day drew to a close, attendees expressed heartfelt gratitude toward the NAU for its ongoing support and initiatives. There was a palpable sense of optimism regarding the future of the industry, as participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to building a stronger, more sustainable poultry industry moving forward. The collective enthusiasm and vision for ongoing development signal a promising future for Namibia’s agricultural landscape.
