Small, medium and micro enterprises represent an important vehicle to address the challenges of job creation, economic growth and equity in South Africa. For over 15 years the South African Poultry Association and its member companies have catered to the needs of smallholder and emerging farmers by addressing issues affecting this growing sector of the poultry industry.
From 2003, the Developing Poultry Farmers Organisation (DPFO) catered for the needs of smallholder and emerging farmers by addressing issues affecting this growing sector of the poultry industry. The organisation also fulfilled a dynamic capacity building and advocacy role, empowering provincial structures and developing partnerships with the state over time.
There is a real opportunity for both smallholder broiler and egg farmers to make profits and develop sustainable businesses. This can be facilitated by focusing on improving farm efficiencies (reducing wastage and mortalities, and increasing production and growth rates), as well as securing reliable markets – the outcome could be very positive.
In March of this year RCL, in partnership with Hybrid Poultry Farm in Zambia and Cobb Europe, hosted two technical schools for poultry professionals and farm managers across southern Africa. More that 80 individuals attended the events to learn about current best practices, share challenges and opportunities and network with others in the field.
