Merinos: the cornerstone of South Africa's sheep industry

Grant Naudé, president of Merino South Africa, spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the Merino breed's adaptability, dual-purpose strengths and vital role in sustaining South Africa's wool and meat industries.

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Merino sheep remain at the heart of South Africa’s wool and mutton industries, with their adaptability, dual-purpose traits and genetic progress driving their continued dominance in the country’s livestock sector.

Speaking to Farmer's Weekly, Grant Naudé, president of Merino South Africa (Merino SA), says the breed’s versatility gives farmers a unique level of stability in a volatile agricultural market.

“The Merino is not just another sheep. It is the cornerstone of the South African sheep industry.

“What makes it stand out is its dual-purpose advantages. It produces world-class wool that sells at premium prices internationally, while also delivering lean, tender meat that meets both local and export demand.

“If wool prices dip, carcass value can carry you through, and if the meat market is under pressure, the wool cheque brings stability,” he says.

ADAPTABILITY ACROSS SOUTH AFRICA

According to Naudé, South Africa's diverse climate and landscapes make adaptability a key trait in any successful livestock breed.

Merinos have proven themselves in regions ranging from the dry Karoo to the sourveld and irrigated pastures.

Naudé adds that this flexibility is a major reason why Merinos dominate sheep numbers across the country, offering both small-scale and commercial farmers reliable production options.

PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Unlike many breeds, Merinos do not force farmers into one production system. Naudé says they excel in both extensive and intensive setups.

"In extensive systems, they survive well on natural grazing, keeping input costs low. But in intensive conditions on irrigated pastures or in feedlots, they also perform exceptionally.

The lambs convert feed efficiently and provide a uniform product for the market."