Opportunities beckon for red meat producers despite a challenging year

The past year has been challenging for South African producers, but the recent annual congress of the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation in the North West (RPO North West) held in Lichtenburg, highlighted several promising prospects and opportunities.

- By Christal-Lize Muller

During the congress, Nico Kilian was reelected as chairperson. In his address, he acknowledged the difficulties faced by producers, including drought conditions until early this year, low meat prices, high interest rates, a stagnant economy, and rising feed costs. These factors have not only dampened consumer demand but also compelled producers to implement cost-cutting measures.

Despite these challenges, the market is showing signs of recovery. Slaughter and weaner calf prices are on the rise and recent rainfall has provided much-needed relief, offering a more optimistic outlook for the industry.

Grassroots involvement

Kilian emphasised the critical role of grassroots involvement. Danie de Villiers, recently reelected as vice-chairperson, has been actively involved in agricultural associations, auctions, and government institutions since January. His efforts aim to enhance the presence of RPO North West at the grassroots level. Kilian reiterated the importance of active participation by RPO delegates in agricultural associations, highlighting the need to establish a strong grassroots footprint.

He also urged producers to prioritise disease control, as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), brucellosis, trichomoniasis, and vibriosis continue to pose risks to herd health in the province. Regular herd and bull testing are essential preventive measures. Although North West was declared FMD-free in March 2024, Kilian cautioned against complacency, citing recent outbreaks in Gauteng and Limpopo. Strict biosecurity protocols, access control, and effective communication among neighbouring farms to safeguard livestock health is ongoing.