Namibia’s Maranatha Poultry plans US$13.7M expansion to double output
Investment expected to improve domestic supply and open potential regional markets
NAMIBIA – Maranatha Poultry and its partners have announced plans to invest over US$13.7 million to raise production capacity above 800 tonnes per month.
The expansion programme will cover improvements to the hatchery, abattoir, and farming operations, with construction expected to conclude in 2026.
Current production ranges between 200 and 250 tonnes monthly, with an interim target of 400 tonnes before moving towards the full expansion.
Managing Director Shaun Esterhuizen said achieving 400 tonnes will require full utilisation of the abattoir and coordinated supply from the hatchery and growers.
He explained that each element of the value chain must be upgraded in sequence to support higher production levels.
The phased approach begins with hatchery upgrades, followed by abattoir enhancements, allowing the facility to handle larger volumes before overall output increases.
Esterhuizen estimated the total capital needed for the upgrades to range between US$13.7 million and US$16.5 million.
The investment will also cover construction work, completion of primary facilities, improvements to slaughter capacity, and expansion of transport and logistics for higher distribution.
Regulatory compliance issues at the abattoir have been addressed, with all licensing and fitness requirements now in order.
Esterhuizen added that retail access and regional export opportunities will only be pursued once the facility meets hygiene and technical standards.
Local Market Growth and Regional Opportunities
Head of Marketing and Sales Theresa Greeff said Maranatha has supplied over 1,800 tonnes of poultry locally and employs more than 120 staff across its operations.
Farmers in Stampriet remain central to production, ensuring consistent quality as the company prepares to expand its reach into retail markets.
Maranatha is currently the third-largest poultry supplier in Namibia and is evaluating potential partnerships to introduce the brand into the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The company’s expansion aligns with broader growth in Namibia’s poultry sector, where 14.4 million chickens had been processed locally by September 2025, according to the Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia.
Commercial farming has overtaken small-scale setups in key regions including Erongo, Khomas, and Otjozondjupa, generating employment and income.
Exports of processed chicken products reached 893,782 kilograms in the first nine months of 2025, valued at around US$2.2 million, with Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe as leading markets.
Despite these gains, Namibia continues to import poultry, bringing in about 15.9 million kilograms by September, primarily from South Africa, to meet local demand.
Imports of day-old chicks from South Africa have declined sharply, falling 79.4 percent from August to September, reflecting gradual improvements in local production capacity.
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