Savanna Beef to launch trial operations in September

Savanna Beef Processors Ltd (SBP) will fire up its operations next month, with trial slaughtering and processing set to begin in September ahead of plans to slaughter 250 cattle daily once full operations kick off.The state-of-the-art export abattoir, beef processing plant and supporting infrastructure are nearing completion after an investment exceeding N$464 million.The announcement was made by Mecki Schneider, chair of both SBP and its parent body, the Beef Value Chain Forum (BVCF), during an annual general meeting late last week.Around 200 participants attended the session, which concluded with a visit to the construction site.The N$352 million core slaughterhouse project is complemented by additional infrastructure, including a water treatment and recovery facility and a dedicated power plant, bringing the total investment to N$417.5 million.Factoring in operational readiness and other costs, the figure rises to N$464.5 million.Backed by around 730 farmers who have invested N$200 million in shares, SBP has also attracted two international investors contributing N$40 million. Financing was rounded off with a N$150 million long-term construction loan and an N$86 million finance lease.Hard work pays offThe start-up phase, running until February 2026, will see cattle procured in smaller quantities while staff training is underway.The management team was put in place earlier this year, with managing director Ian Collard joining in January, chief operations officer Helgo Horsthemke in March, and chief financial officer Karola Redecker in June.More than 80 employees have already been recruited, with the workforce expected to grow to 220 once export status is secured and full production is reached.At full capacity, the facility is expected to process 250 cattle daily – about 50 000 annually. Savanna Beef has secured an international marketing partner, with plans to showcase its products at the Anuga food fair in Cologne this October.Before export status is granted, SBP will host farmer information days to discuss the proposed slaughter quota system and the trading of slaughter rights. These systems, contingent on EU accreditation, are set to come into effect in March 2026.Formed in November 2020, the BVCF established Savanna Beef Processors in February 2022 to give producers ownership through participation. SBP’s wholly owned operating subsidiary, Savanna Beef Operations, began building the facility in January 2024.

Savanna Beef to launch trial operations in September

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-13

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Savanna Beef to launch trial operations in September

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-13

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