South Africa’s large-scale poultry industry is at a pivotal point. For decades, the sector has been a key contributor to food security and employment; however, it has largely remained out of reach for black farmers due to persistent structural barriers, writes AFASA’s Mhlobo Mbane, who chairs the organisation’s poultry desk.
The finalisation of the Poultry Industry Master Plan (PIMP) on 11 June 2025 marks a significant milestone in transforming South Africa’s poultry sector. Led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), the National Department of Agriculture (DoA), and supported by industry partners such as AFASA, SAPA, and commercial banks, this five-year plan (2025–2030) outlines a clear pathway towards inclusive and sustainable development in the sector.
The poultry industry has long been dominated by large white-owned commercial operations, with black farmers often sidelined due to a lack of access to land, infrastructure, funding, and markets. PIMP aims to change this by creating a level playing field for all farmers, particularly black developing farmers, and enabling broader participation in the sector’s value chain. As the chairperson of AFASA’s poultry commodity group, I can attest to the urgent need for this plan and the collaborative efforts behind it.
Also read: When you fail to plan, you plan to fail – SAPA on Poultry Sector Master Plan
Levelling the Playing Field
The plan recognises three main categories of black poultry producers: contract growers, independent farmers, and subsistence/backyard farmers. Contract growers are relatively better off, as they are already part of the value chain through off-take agreements and have infrastructure in place. Independent farmers, on the other hand, face significant challenges, including limited formal market access, inadequate infrastructure, and restricted access to affordable finance. These farmers constitute the majority of black producers.
To transform the sector meaningfully, government and financial institutions must address these structural barriers. Funding remains the biggest obstacle. Without a well-structured and inclusive blended finance model that involves commercial banks, Land Bank, and the IDC, many black farmers will remain “emerging” indefinitely. We need targeted support for infrastructure, production inputs (feed, chicks, vaccines), and long-term capital investment.
The role of the private sector should not be underestimated. Enterprise Supplier Development (ESD) programmes must be activated to support independent black farmers, particularly those operating outside formal contracts. We can no longer afford only lip service to transformation; resources must align with intent.
Also read: Eastern Cape missing from implementation of Poultry Industry Master Plan
Infrastructure and Agro-Processing
Infrastructure is an urgent issue. Many smallholder and backyard farmers lack access to processing facilities, especially in rural provinces such as the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and parts of Gauteng. Shared abattoirs and mobile slaughter units should be prioritised to close this gap. The absence of local processing facilities continues to block access to markets, maintaining inequality in the value chain.
While the government often focuses on input supply, such as feed and vaccines, we must also consider the wider value chain. Infrastructure is crucial for commercial success. Additionally, the high cost of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) makes it very difficult for struggling farmers to develop on-farm infrastructure.
These costs should be subsidised or reformed if we are serious about transformation. The quality of inputs also matters. Poor-quality day-old chicks and costly feed are a recipe for failure, regardless of how modern the infrastructure may be. We must encourage black youth to pursue upstream opportunities, such as hatcheries and feed supply, creating a full-circle transformation within the industry.
Chicken as a Staple for Food Security
Poultry is South Africa’s most affordable and widely consumed source of protein. Making chicken accessible to low-income households is not just an economic priority; it is a moral obligation. Rural and township-based producers, including backyard farmers, play a vital role in household food security. They must be supported, not overlooked.
The Department of Agriculture’s R7 billion budget for 2025/26 must be allocated strategically, focusing on those already producing, those prepared to scale, and those requiring only a small boost to commercialise. The assistance includes infrastructure grants, input subsidies, and access to blended finance schemes.
Also read: More chickens from America ‘will harm agriculture in SA’
Creating Jobs and Expanding Trade
The poultry sector is labour-intensive and provides significant employment opportunities, especially for young people. However, job creation depends on capital investment. The government needs to collaborate with private investors to unlock this potential.
South Africa still imports about 20% of its chicken, mainly from Brazil. This demonstrates that the market is large enough for all players. We must boost local production, yes, but we should also explore export opportunities. Countries across Africa are potential buyers. Organisations such as the Association for Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) and the South African Black Importers and Exporters Meat Association (SABIEMA) ought to be involved in order to facilitate access to export markets.
Importantly, black youth should not only farm; they must also be involved in logistics, processing, importing, and exporting. PIMP offers a platform for this comprehensive participation.
A Shared Commitment and Collaboration
This second iteration of the Poultry Master Plan builds on lessons from the past, emphasising transformation as central to national agricultural development. However, its success will depend on genuine collaboration. Government, financial institutions, industry players, and organised agriculture must shift from talk to action.
If we execute this well, the poultry sector can serve as a model for inclusive growth, providing the nation with food, generating employment, and fostering wealth in rural areas.
Let’s get to work.
Also read: Farming emakhaya | 8 essential tips for raising backyard chickens
