Feedmaster’s unwavering service excellence and dedication to providing Namibian farmers and producers with high-quality animal feed have, for over four decades, enhanced the productivity of the country’s agriculture sector.
Since 1983, Feedmaster, the country’s leading animal feed producer, has been a pioneering innovator in various types of animal feed, and in recent years, the company has evolved into an entity that consistently strives to add value to sustainable livestock production systems.
Feedmaster was founded as a subsidiary of Namib Mills with the primary objective of maximising the utilisation of milling by-products. Initially, Feedmaster’s product range was limited to maize chop, and the first mixed feeds were produced manually on a concrete platform.
However, with Namib Mills’ investment in a wheat mill in 1986, a more comprehensive range of feed products was developed and manufactured using motorised mixing equipment.
Feedmaster’s growth and innovation have been fueled by a dedication to ongoing research, a deep understanding of nutritional balance and animal digestion, and the application of local and international research findings in product development.
This commitment has enabled Feedmaster to formulate feed with the appropriate nutrients, ensuring optimal animal health and productivity.
In 2000, Feedmaster expanded its operations by acquiring Veekos, a South African feed mill specialising in lucerne-based feeds, in Upington. This acquisition solidified Feedmaster’s position as a regional leader in animal feed production and further enhanced its product portfolio.
In pursuit of this goal, Feedmaster established a state-of-the-art monogastric animal feed mill on farm Okapuka in November 2013.
Feedmaster’s products, training, and extension services to animal producers are meticulously formulated based on scientifically proven principles specifically developed for Namibian farming conditions.
This dedication to providing localised solutions has been instrumental in supporting the growth and success of Namibia’s livestock industry.
Consistent growth
In 2017, Feedmaster unveiled a modern ruminant feed mill, a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation and technological advancement.
This investment was driven by the steady growth in the ruminant feed market and advances in local precision farming practices, which require animal feed to improve livestock production profitability.
Today, Feedmaster boasts an impressive annual production capacity of more than 220 000 tonnes across its three plants, significantly increasing from its initial output of 150 tonnes.
This remarkable growth reflects the company’s unwavering dedication to providing high-quality, technology-driven feed solutions that meet the evolving needs of Namibia’s livestock producers.
To guarantee that its products and services remain at the forefront of industry standards, Feedmaster employs a team of highly qualified and dedicated technical nutritionists, technical advisers, and industry consultants who actively engage in global research across various disciplines of animal production.
This commitment to continuous learning has been instrumental in positioning Feedmaster as one of the few African animal feed manufacturers to hold a Food Safety International Standards Level 1 award and an ISO 22002-6 accreditation. These certifications ensure that Feedmaster’s products comply with the highest international standards and legislation.
Namib laboratories
In addition to its core feed production activities, Feedmaster operates Namib Laboratories, a subsidiary established in 2018 to conduct all microbiological, serological, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic tests for the Namib Mills group of companies.
The establishment of Namib Laboratories was driven by a desire to address shortcomings in local veterinary laboratory services, particularly in the poultry industry.
Looking ahead, Feedmaster remains committed to further strengthening its position as a leader in animal feed production, continuously innovating and expanding its product portfolio to meet the evolving needs of Namibia’s livestock producers.
The company is unwavering in its dedication to supporting the growth and sustainability of Namibia’s agricultural sector, ensuring that Namibian farmers continue to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity.
-ohembapu@nepc.com.na