Ostrich production struggling in Botswana

21 Apr 2008

The sole ostrich abattoir in Botswana is still unable to reach its target of slaughtering 1,160 birds per month.

The plant re-opened in October 2007 and managed to slaughter a total of 1182 birds from October last year to February.

According to abattoir manager Freeman Mogaga, farmers are unable to meet the target due to limited infrastructure, unreliable feed supply and unavailability of chicks.

He went on to say that few ostrich farms, inadequate training and high start-up costs were among the problems affecting ostrich production in the region. However, he said the Ministry of Agriculture should aid this industry with more funding, subsidise ostrich farming start-up cost and adequate infrastructure and training.

He also called on farmers to invest more, devote more time and efforts in ostrich farming as well as liaise with the ministry officials on better and profitable farming techniques.

It is reported that the ostrich meat is sold locally, as well as to countries such as Belgium, and the skins sold to Asia and South Africa.

Critical factors in ostrich (Struthio camelus australis) production: A focus on southern Africa

Ostrich production is highly management intensive. The ability to sustain long term profitability is dependent upon the use of strict management techniques by the producer and his workforce. Important factors include those favouring maximisation of production, elimination of disease, reduction in transport and abattoir damage, and minimising feed costs. Given the rise in the global competitiveness of the ostrich industry, the implementation of best practices on the farm is vital if the producer is to remain viable.