Mobile slaughter unit should be relocated - NNFU
The Namibia National Farmers' Union (NNFU) says there is a need for the mobile slaughter unit (MSU) abattoir to be relocated from the Kavango East Region to the Kunene Region, or alternatively, the north central region.While the union appreciates the approach by the finance ministry trying to resolve Meatco’s problems instead of liquidating the company, the union said it is advocating for the MSU’s relocation.
The NNFU said the Rundu abattoir began operations in September 2023, and therefore the MSU needs to be moved to a region that does not have an abattoir.
“The NNFU emphasised its position jointly with other farmer unions to the Cabinet parliamentary committees, the agriculture ministry and the finance ministry that the Meatco NCA subsidiary should be autonomous and be on equal footing with the southern operation.”
The unions said to ensure focused decision-making, separate boards and management teams should be established for the southern operation and the northern communal area (NCA), respectively.
“This will allow them to concentrate on their respective objectives and enhance efficiency in their operations.”
Government support
Government is expected to assume a major part of the Meatco NCA through subsidy provisions to support market and business development efforts, the union explained.
According to the NNFU, the southern operation and Meatco NCA should operate on business principles and adhere to international best practices.
“However, the southern operation, benefitting from access to lucrative international and regional markets, should receive limited support from the government, subject to aggressive debt restructuring measures being implemented.”
This approach ensures a balanced allocation of resources and promotes the self-sustainability of both entities.
The NNFU requested that the Oshakati abattoir operate as soon as possible, whether through a partnership between Meatco and KIAT or by having one of them manage the facility, to ensure that their members are not left out.
Cabinet has directed Meatco to operate the Oshakati abattoir.
“However, only the Katima abattoir and the Rundu abattoir in the NCA are currently operated by Meatco.”
The NNFU said given the drought situation, farmers are pushing to sell their livestock both in the north and the south.
“Unfortunately, farmers in the NCA are kept in uncertainty, particularly in the central north and Kunene if abattoirs are not operated.”