The Meatco operational agreement with the Zambezi Meat Corporation (Zamco) has come to an end, and will now see Meatco winding down its operations at the Katima Mulilo abattoir.
The agreement, which has been in place since 10 April 2021, expired on 15 April 2026 after reaching its natural conclusion following the expiry date.
Meatco’s interim CEO Albertus Aochamub said they have put in place a comprehensive Transitional Exit Plan to facilitate a smooth and orderly discontinuation of operations at the Katima Mulilo abattoir and ensure continued support for local producers and suppliers. The transition period is scheduled to run from 16 April to 30 June 2026, and during this period, Aochamub said Meatco will progressively scale down its operations at the abattoir in a controlled manner.
“The process will include inventory verification, cessation of cattle procurement, and a gradual reduction of stock levels, all aimed at minimising disruptions to the livestock sector and maintaining market stability. We reaffirmed our commitment to honouring all obligations to producers and suppliers associated with the facility, ensuring that contractual commitments and prior agreements are fulfilled,” Aochamub explained.
The CEO highlighted Meatco’s broader strategic objectives, noting that the company is refining its operational footprint and reallocating resources toward initiatives that deliver maximum impact for the Namibian livestock sector.
“This transition is being executed with discipline and clear intent. Our immediate focus is to protect producer value, maintain market confidence, and ensure operational continuity across the business,” he stated.
Meatco remains a key player in the country’s meat industry, responsible for stabilising markets, supporting local producers, and ensuring the sustainable growth of Namibia’s livestock sector.
Aochamub underscored that their strategic turnaround plan aims to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen their role within the national economy.
The State-owned beef processing and marketing entity plays a vital role in Namibia’s red meat industry, as it is the single biggest player in terms of approved slaughter capacity with international export certification, enabling livestock producers to access lucrative international markets.
At full speed, the Katima Mulilo abattoir demonstrated positive performance, with increased sales and market realisations. However, challenges such as low slaughter numbers and infrastructural requirements proved challenging to Meatco’s sustained growth and efficiency. Due to the low cattle supply, the abattoir operated in block-slaughter mode to maintain efficiency and marked significant progress in Meatco’s journey to strengthen the Beef Value Chain Development Programme for farmers in the northern communal areas.
-ohembapu@nepc.com.na