Administrative hiccups, delays in timely processing payments of livestock suppliers, and offering unattractive producer prices are now a thing of the past at the Meat Corporation of Namibia (Meatco), the country’s biggest meat processing and marketing entity.
The corporation has made swift progress over the past two months, and as it currently stands, Meatco’s books are fully up to date: all livestock producers and suppliers have been paid in full, with no outstanding arrears.
The restoration of confidence in local farmers and suppliers was further concretised between the months of November and December 2025, as well as January this year, when Meatco paid over N$580 million to producers who marketed livestock directly to the corporation.
In addition, more than N$52 million was paid to producers who marketed their livestock through permit days, while a whopping N$64 million was paid to producers in the Northern Communal Area (NCA). “These payments underscore Meatco’s commitment to timely, reliable, and transparent compensation to producers across the country. For the 2025/26 financial year commencing in February, Meatco has planned a total throughput of 63 000 cattle, including approximately 13 000 head from the NCA. This reflects the Corporation’s continued focus on inclusive market access for both commercial and communal producers,” said Rosa Thobias, Meatco’s head of corporate affairs.
Not only has Meatco updated its books, but it is also currently offering the highest producer prices for the February to April 2026 period, ranging from N$68 to N$78 per kilogram for AB 1–4 grades.
As part of its ongoing strategy, these improved prices provide producers with value, certainty, and confidence when planning their marketing decisions.
“Meatco reaffirms its critical role as Namibia’s primary red meat industry stabiliser, providing competitive and consistent pricing that reduces market volatility and supports sustainable producer incomes, particularly within the rural agricultural economy. Meatco remains committed to strengthening the livestock value chain, supporting producers, and safeguarding the long-term sustainability of Namibia’s red meat industry,” stated Thobias.
Global appeal
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 the unique position of being the only African nation authorised to export beef to both the United States and Europe, 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 through a new agreement with Eugen Block Holding GmbH, one of Germany’s leading owner-managed hospitality companies.
Namibian rump steak features on monthly specials at Block House steak restaurants, a well-known chain with 42 locations across Germany. This group currently operates a large chain of Block House steakhouses nationwide, alongside several Jim Block burger outlets.
This partnership offers German diners an authentic farm-to-table experience, showcasing Namibia’s rich agricultural tradition and dedication 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