Chamwe Kaira
Savanna Beef Processors Limited has moved the issuance of slaughter rights to mid-February 2026 as it continues its controlled operational ramp-up and waits for key export audit outcomes.
The company began slaughtering 10 to 15 cattle per day on 1 October as part of a measured start-up aimed at generating processing data and training staff on the slaughter floor and deboning lines.
Savanna Beef took ownership of its abattoir on 27 October after receiving the taking-over certificate from the construction contractor, confirming the facility met all contractual requirements.
From 12 to 15 November 2025, the company hosted the regional SADC slaughter audit inspection, the first step toward qualifying for a full EU export status audit.
The final SADC audit report is expected in mid-December, with only minor recommendations raised.
With the audit timelines in mind, the board has postponed the declaration of slaughter rights to its mid-February 2026 meeting.
The company said the delay allows time for the EU audit process to start and, if possible, be completed and for recruitment and training needed to reach full operating capacity of 250 LSU per day.
Savanna Beef said the Slaughter Rights system was designed to function under full-capacity throughput and with EU export status in place, allowing the intended 3% premium for producers.
The first quarter of 2026 (March–May) will fall outside the formal system.
The company will soon open online bookings and will accept deliveries from shareholders while scaling up operations.
Savanna Beef expects to reach full capacity and, subject to approval, secure EU export status by 1 June 2026.
The Slaughter Rights system will then be activated, with rights for the remaining three quarters of the 2026 financial year issued at a 5 333:1 shares-to-rights ratio.
The planned 4 000:1 ratio will apply from the start of the 2027 financial year in March 2027.
The company said shareholders and producers will be informed immediately once EU export status is granted and when the rights system becomes operational.
It acknowledged the delay but said the decision supports long-term stability.
“We fully understand that this delay may cause some inconvenience, but we are convinced it is the responsible decision that protects the long-term viability of Savanna Beef and maximises the future premium and benefits for every producer,” the company said.
