Dairy sector struggling

The dairy sector is one of the net-importing industries that has struggled to operate due to a lack of industry protection.This was made clear at the Dairy Producers’ Association (DPA) members’ meeting recently held near Gobabis.According to the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU), a number of farmers have left the sector because figures were no longer making economic sense.“However, despite the challenges, some continue to produce.”At the DPA annual meeting, members took cognisance of the financial position of the association and Namibia Dairies presented a market overview and shared their plans on how to position themselves.“The sector regained hope, since Cabinet has approved the inclusion of dairy under the Meat Industry Act, however, the road to implementation remains vital to the sustainability of the sector. The association will continue to proactively follow up on the matter for the benefit of members.”KnowledgeDuring the information session, Kenneth Botha (sponsored by Feedmaster), gave an insightful presentation on nutritional trends of dairy herds in economically challenging times. Amongst an array of factors, the presentation looked at own feed production versus buying feed and the resultant cost implications, the inclusion of grazing as a cost factor, and the importance of producing silage (such as maize and soya).A second speaker, Leon Maritz, spoke about protection against germs and sanitisers for all agricultural sectors with a focus on dairy.RewardsDuring the award ceremony, Dirk van Wyk was awarded with the Dairy Producer of the Year award, while Frikkie Duvenhage and Willie van der Schyff took second and third places respectively. Frikkie Duvenhage also took the Lowest Bacteria Count award and Dirk van Wyk the Most Accurate Milk Production Forecast prize.Meanwhile, Superfarm won the Japie trophy, which is awarded to the farmer who delivered the best quality milk.Feedmaster, Namibia Dairies and Polyoak were thanked for their support of the awards night; Feedmaster for again being the main sponsor, and Nova a co-sponsor, of the meeting and information session.The association also expressed gratitude towards all of its members and stakeholders such as the Agricultural Trade Forum, AgriForum, and the City of Windhoek&#039;s food safety division, for the unwavering support.

Dairy sector struggling

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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Dairy sector struggling

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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