Netherlands African Meat Technology Partners

From traditional to up to date slaughtering projects

The traditional way
Many countries in Africa still have a rather traditional slaughtering practice and logistics system. In many cases the old abattoirs are not up to date and not in conformity with the international hygienic, food safety, environmental and animal welfare standards. Meat storage facilities of abattoirs, butchers and meat shopkeepers are often unhygienic. A cold chain, meat processing and packaging plants are often lacking. The traditional way might still be considered adequate for the requirements of the local (wet) market, but is not suitable for the export of chilled and frozen meat.

Increasing demand for safe and high quality meat
N-A MTP signalize a growing local market demand in Africa for safe and high quality meat. The local meat processing industry can only meet the changing demand of the consumers, retailers and other market segments (such as hotels, restaurants) by improving the slaughtering practices. Also in case the objective is to export meat to the international markets the existing abattoirs may need to be rehabilitated or new projects should be built. Not just the meat quality and the hygiene, but also the working environment for the slaughtering personnel as well as the animal welfare situation will improve.

Success factors for a new abattoir
Preconditions for a successful new abattoir project are the availability of a good quality cattle in the region and a sustainable, daily supply of cattle to the abattoir by the farmers, cattle owners, traders or from the own feedlot. The local demand for high quality fresh meat and processed meat products should be high enough to start a new project. Furthermore the local government and meat sector should be prepared to shift the slaughtering process from the traditional to a modern way, with up to date and hygienic technology and with a sustainable chain approach. Even with an enormous amount of livestock many African countries have no or only a few functioning modern abattoirs. Consequently, we believe that in many African countries all the preconditions can be met for developing and realizing an up to date abattoir.

The potential of exporting meat and meat products to neighbouring African countries or other international markets worldwide can certainly effect the decision for one or more new abattoirs positively.

RESULTS OF A NEW ABATTOIR
The results of a new abattoir can be the following. The new project:

provides safe and high quality meat for the local consumers
generates employment
provides new forms of expertise or technology
is hygienic and highly environmental friendly
improves the animal welfare
can make the country independent from foreign meat supply sources (increased food security and self-sufficiency)
can be the start for the development of value added meat processing projects
can be the start for regional meat trading and global export activities.

Based on our experience and expertise N-A MTP can support you with a feasibility study and a well-designed, bankable business plan. Herewith you can make a plan of development for your new investment, secure financing and mitigate possible risks and challenges. Result: a successful and sustainable slaughter and meat project.