REHO MEAT RECEIVES SEAL OF QUALITY
Consistent quality and a determination to succeed, ensuring the best possible prices for Namibian farmers, have earned Reho Meat Processors (RMP) the Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia’s (LLPBN) Seal of Quality. An official handing-over ceremony took place in June at the abattoir, located just outside Rehoboth. Several LLPBN board members, including Adv. Lucia Panduleni Hamutenya (chairperson) were in attendance.
Jaco Smith, RMP chief executive, said that although the abattoir, acquired by Exigrade Feeds (a member of the DAS Group) in 2022, was initially set up to accommodate the slaughtering and processing of Wagyu beef, the long-term objective has been to cater for commercial beef, game and lamb producers. “The strategic location of RMP means that producers will have access to more markets with reduced transport costs and less stress on animals. This will help to ensure consistent quality carcasses, which is what the export market is after.”
During the LLPBN visit, Jaco highlighted that the first consignment of beef was sent to a profitable European niche market. RMP also started processing game meat in June. RMP is Namibia’s first abattoir designed for export and is 100% Namibian-owned. Moreover, the abattoir’s design allows for expansion to double capacity as needed.
Expansion plans are already in motion as Exifeed, an animal feed factory not far from the abattoir, opened its doors in March. According to Jaco, the aim is to help farmers deliver excellent carcass quality by feeding animals the right balance of feed and nutrition. “We believe that the key to a successful abattoir is not just about throughput but delivering uniform A to AB grade cattle with a specific carcass weight (280 kg and more) regularly. This is how you attract and keep buyers.”
In this regard, Jaco stated that RMP is currently negotiating with interested clients in Angola, where prices are similar to the European market. RMP has Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Halaal accreditation.
