Namibian poultry nears 95% self-sufficiency
Namibia has reached 90% to 95% self-sufficiency in poultry production, according to data released at the Poultry Producers’ Association (PPA) annual meeting on 26 March.
The figures indicate that the domestic industry now meets nearly all local demand for standard poultry products, transitioning the sector toward potential export growth.
PPA chairperson Louis Kleynhans confirmed that local production efficiency now meets international standards. With the domestic market approaching saturation for primary broiler products, the association is investigating export pathways into neighbouring countries. This strategy aims to replicate the Namibian red meat sector's success by utilising the country’s current disease-free status to access regional markets.
The expansion of Hochland Farms was cited as a primary indicator of this industrial growth. The operation grew from an initial 200 chicks per week to a commercial system utilising environmentally controlled housing and private processing facilities. The farm is currently scaling toward a target of 30 000 broilers slaughtered per week.
Value chain gaps
Despite high overall production, data show specific gaps in the domestic value chain.
Namibia still relies on imports for the majority of its processed and crumbed poultry products. Additionally, there is a consistent domestic shortage of offal products, including livers, gizzards and feet. To address these gaps, the PPA launched a new training programme titled "All About Poultry: From Basics to Business." The initiative, supported by Feedmaster, consists of monthly sessions designed to move producers into these specialised commercial categories.
The meeting also addressed structural constraints, specifically the lack of practical training infrastructure. Due to biosecurity protocols, existing commercial farms cannot host visitors, leaving new entrants without a dedicated facility to observe broiler or layer operations. The association stated that it intends to explore the development of a demonstration farm to resolve this training gap.
Supply chain volatility
Supply chain logistics remain a critical factor for stability. While broiler chicks are imported by road from South Africa, the supply of layer chicks is more volatile. Disruptions in the South African supply have recently forced producers to import chicks from the Netherlands via air. Although air freight significantly increases input costs, the PPA noted that maintaining an uninterrupted supply remains the priority for national food security.
The PPA concluded that current production figures are now internationally competitive. With sponsors including Agrimark, Feedmaster and Agra, the association plans to focus the coming year on closing the remaining 5% production gap and establishing the frameworks required for future export trade.
