The Poultry Master Plan Executive Oversight Committee convened today at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) in Pretoria. The meeting was led by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Zuko Godlimpi, and Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Ms Nokuzola Capa, with key stakeholders discussing the progress of Phase-1 of the Poultry Master Plan.
Delivering the progress report, the Chief Director of Agro-processing and Forestry-Based Industries at the dtic, Ms Ncumisa Mcata-Mhlauli, confirmed that since the inception of Phase-1, the poultry industry has retained approximately 52,930 direct jobs. This underscores the critical role of the sector in bolstering employment and contributing to South Africa’s economic growth.
“These are the stakeholders that have been involved in terms of the formulation of the Master Plan. That includes government departments, development finance institutions (DFIs), farmers’ associations, feed manufacturers, labour, and private sector partners,” said Mcata-Mhlauli.
The meeting highlighted the impressive investments directed towards infrastructure development and industry support, exceeding initial targets.
“There was a case made by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) for R1.5 billion to support their processing facilities and infrastructure. That target has been exceeded, with almost R2.02 billion allocated by major players in the industry,” she stated.
Further demonstrating the government’s commitment to industry growth, Mcata-Mhlauli detailed financial interventions supporting emerging poultry businesses.
“Through the Industrial Development Corporation and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Agri industrial fund, a total of R1.2 billion has been invested in 14 poultry projects. The Land Bank has also approved two projects valued at R31 million, while the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Program( CASP) has backed 42 initiatives aimed at empowering small-scale farmers,” she explained.
The meeting reaffirmed the need for ongoing trade protection to counteract unfair competition posed by poultry imports, ensuring the sustainability of local producers. Discussions also focused on expanding exports, improving affordability, and strengthening biosecurity measures to mitigate disease outbreaks affecting the industry.
As Phase-2 progresses, stakeholders remain committed to supporting black-owned enterprises, increasing local production, and sustaining employment. With a total investment commitment of R635 million the Poultry Master Plan continues to be a flagship initiative driving transformation and growth in the agricultural sector.
The Chief Director of Agro-processing and Forestry-Based Industries at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ms Ncumisa Mcata-Mhlauli delivering the progress report during Poultry Master Plan Executive Oversight Committee meeting in Pretoria.
For media enquiries and interview requests:
Bongani Lukhele – Director: Media Relations
Tel: (012) 394 1643
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E-mail: BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za
Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic)
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