Globally, the poultry industry is still recovering from the reduced demand from traditional markets following the COVID-19 lockdowns including the subsequent pressure from increased feed costs. The enforced lockdowns across the world affected global trade disrupting feeding ingredients severely and inflating prices of both maize and soya beans.
Avian influenza is now stalling the recovery of the industry and continues to be one of the biggest challenges facing poultry producers in 2021 to 2022. (Figure 1). Avian flu is a highly contagious viral disease that affects several species of food-producing birds, pet birds and wild birds. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strains may cause severe clinical signs and potentially high mortality rates among poultry.
Compounding these effects is the recurring Russia- Ukraine war that started last year.
FOOD INSECURITY
This war was reported to have also resulted in high feed prices due to disruptions in global grains and oilseed markets, including increases in fuel, agrochemicals and fertiliser costs. All these factors have amplified concerns about food insecurity in developing countries.
In addition, the South African poultry industry has battled other difficulties in recent years.
These include the unrest that flared in KwaZuluNatal and Gauteng in July 2021, with consequences of damaged and destroyed infrastructure reported to have resulted in losses of millions of rand.
The unrest resulted in cancellation of orders, and accounts could not being paid by some customers, and this affected several egg producers (SAPA, 2021).
This story is from the November 24, 2023 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 24, 2023 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Ancient Chinese horses: how are they related to modern breeds?
Archaeology of ancient graves containing horse skulls points to China's indigenous Jinjiang as a genetically unique breed, says Dr Mac.
In it for the win and so much more
The long-awaited GWM Tank 300 HEV has arrived. This feature-packed hybrid electric vehicle is the SUV of the future, writes Gary Wium.
Starting a small-farm vegetable project: Part 7
It is one thing to have a good product, but we need to bring its outstanding features to the attention of the purchaser, writes Bill Kerr.
A comparison between Phase C and Phase D growth tests
Melville Ferreira and Freek Botes, researchers at the Agricultural Research Council's Animal Production Insititute in Armoedsvlakte, explain why performance testing is important for herd progress.
Changing the potential of your soil
By building soil carbon levels, farmers can improve the resilience of their crops, reduce the use of chemical pesticides and fertiliser, and buffer their crops against extreme weather. Glenneis Kriel reports.
A smart farm springs up and empowers locals
An experimental 'smart farm' is taking root at the doorstep of Gauteng's only Big Five game reserve and could become a blueprint for other socially and environmentally conscious farms in the future, writes Tanya Faber.
Proactive care helps to improve longevity of cows
Glenneis Kriel reports on the recent South African Cow Longevity Conference, where it was said that food security was the major concern at the moment.
Fresh market sales remain stable despite inflation
Cost fluctuations are a concern, but the potato market stands firm, writes Glenneis Kriel.
Ear implants can backtrack diseased cattle
However hard it hits the cattle owner to learn that there is unsuspected disease in their herd, it is to their advantage to know of it as soon as possible to prevent its further spread, as well as taking measures to eradicate the trouble where possible.
SA's electricity crisis: a dim legacy
South Africa's electricity crisis is the result of a series of failures over the past 30 years, says Mark Swilling, distinguished professor of Sustainable Development at Stellenbosch University.