Allexer Namundjembo
“We need concrete results that translate into income for producers and stability in our industry,” Meat Corporation of Namibia (Meatco) deputy chairperson Stephanie De Klerk said as the state entity presented its latest financial results at its recent 37th annual general meeting in Windhoek.
The meeting, held at the Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM), focused on improved financial performance and the country’s preparedness against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), which remains a threat in the region.
Meatco reported that revenue increased by about 55% to roughly N$1.87 billion for the 2024/25 financial year.
Profit before tax reached about N$105 million, while profit after tax stood at N$43 million.
De Klerk said the results were achieved despite drought conditions and volatility in global markets during the review period.
She stressed that financial gains must support farmers and strengthen the red-meat sector.
Animal health dominated discussions at the meeting. Kenneth Shoombe, chief veterinary officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, confirmed that Namibia remains free of FMD south of the Veterinary Cordon Fence.
Namibia retains its internationally recognised disease-free status without vaccination.
Shoombe said no FMD cases have been detected in the protected zone, even as outbreaks continue in neighbouring countries. He said authorities have strengthened monitoring and surveillance to safeguard export access.
Previously, the minister of agriculture, Inge Zaamwani, told Parliament that the government has intensified measures to prevent a possible FMD incursion.
These steps include suspending and strictly controlling imports of cloven-hoofed animals and related products from affected areas, deploying more veterinary officials at border posts and increasing surveillance.
Zaamwani at that time said about N$1.5 billion will be required to reinforce surveillance and biosecurity measures to protect export markets.
Regional outbreaks have already affected trade patterns. Cases reported in South Africa’s Free State and other neighbouring areas have led to tighter livestock controls and movement restrictions across borders.
Analysts and veterinary officials warn that if FMD were detected inside Namibia’s FMD-free zone, export markets would close immediately to Namibian beef and livestock products.
At the AGM, Meatco also outlined its strategic priorities, which include expanding markets, improving operational efficiency, ensuring steady throughput at abattoirs and maintaining financial discipline.
The meeting ended with recognition of top producers and renewed commitment from stakeholders to support the country’s red-meat industry.
