Improving the red meat value chain in South Africa: Northwest RPO Congress

Farmers who want to take on challenges together with the Red Meat Producers Organization (RPO) in South Africa have a bright future. This was the message during the North West RPO (NWRPO) annual congress in Lichtenburg. Nico Kilian was re-elected chairman of the NWRPO, and said the congress's aim was to build a positive image and encourage red meat producers to work with the organization for a better future. He explained that several factors have a major impact on the industry, including rising input costs, drought, heat, weaker meat prices, traceability, meat exports, animal health, the profitability of livestock farming, and livestock theft. Kilian encouraged producers to farm sustainably and apply everything within their control correctly, such as biosecurity, traceability, field and herd improvement and to improve the standard of marketable meat. They also need to invest in top genetics for their commercial herds. He is positive that good cooperation with the RPO can improve ...