Kyrgyz Republic’s foreign affairs minister Zheenbek Kulubaev recently paid a strategic visit to Namibia’s leading meat processing and marketing entity, Meatco, where discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in agriculture and meat production between the two countries.
The high-level visit highlighted Namibia’s internationally acclaimed premium beef industry and Meatco’s competitive position in global markets, where the country’s beef continues to compete with leading exporters such as Brazil and Uruguay.
Kulubaev and his delegation toured Meatco’s operations to gain insight into Namibia’s advanced agro-processing systems, export standards, and livestock value chain management.
The visit forms part of ongoing diplomatic engagements focused on knowledge exchange and future collaboration in agricultural development.
The Kyrgyz delegation expressed keen interest in learning from Namibia’s expertise in agro-processing and meat export development as the Kyrgyz Republic seeks to strengthen its own processing and export capabilities.
“Meat production remains a cornerstone of the Kyrgyz Republic’s agricultural sector, deeply rooted in the country’s rich nomadic heritage and vast alpine pastures. The sector produces more than 400 000 tons of meat annually, primarily beef, mutton, and horse meat, with cattle and sheep farming dominating the livestock landscape,” said Kulubaev.
The visit also marked an important milestone in Namibia–Kyrgyz diplomatic relations and further established Meatco as a key player in international agricultural cooperation and knowledge-sharing.
Global standards
Namibian beef is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional quality, known for being free-range, grass-fed, and sustainably raised across the country’s expansive natural farmlands.
The country holds a unique position as the only African nation authorised to export beef to both the United States and the larger European market, underscoring its high production standards and strong international reputation.
After two and a half years of preparation, premium Namibian beef was recently introduced more widely in Germany under a new agreement with Eugen Block Holding GmbH, one of Germany’s leading owner-managed hospitality companies.
Namibian rump steak features on the monthly specials at Block House steak restaurants, a well-known chain with 42 locations across Germany. The group currently operates a large chain of Block House steakhouses nationwide, alongside several Jim Block burger outlets.
This partnership offers German and European diners an authentic farm-to-table experience, highlighting Namibia’s rich agricultural heritage and commitment to quality.
The introduction of Namibian beef at Block House restaurants aligns with the country’s goal of promoting its products globally, positioning Namibia as a producer of trusted, safe, premium-quality food.
By securing partnerships with major hospitality brands such as Block House, the country continues to showcase its premium export products while supporting sustainable growth for local farmers, processors and exporters.
-ohembapu@nepc.com.na