Unleashing the Power of Poultry: A Regional Revolution
In a bold move to revolutionize the poultry industry, the Poultry Futures Forum 2025 kicked off in Lusaka, igniting a fire under Southern Africa's poultry value chains. The forum, organized by AGRA, called for a united regional effort, urging governments, producers, and private entities to join forces and unlock the true potential of this vital sector.
But here's where it gets controversial... Instead of fragmented national efforts, AGRA proposed a shared regional approach. This strategy aims to expand production, tackle the high cost of feed, enhance climate resilience, and attract private investment. By embracing innovation and youth leadership, they aim to transform the poultry industry into a powerhouse of economic growth and food security.
The Poultry Futures Forum 2025 builds upon the success of its predecessor, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in 2024. Since then, several countries have made remarkable progress, aligning their national priorities with the shared regional vision. This year's forum aims to accelerate this momentum and address the structural challenges that have hindered the poultry sector's growth.
In his opening message, AGRA Board Chair, H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn, highlighted the encouraging progress made over the past year. Several countries have developed national action plans, and youth entrepreneurs are leading the way with innovative digital solutions. The highlight? The launch of the Poultry Feed Accelerator Grand Challenge, a direct response to the industry's biggest constraint: the high and volatile cost of feed. This initiative invites innovators and researchers to present groundbreaking ideas, offering a glimmer of hope for a more sustainable and affordable feed supply.
The forum places a special emphasis on youth and women, recognizing their pivotal role in transforming the sector. AGRA will showcase young entrepreneurs and women-led enterprises, highlighting their contributions to feed innovation, disease control, market access, and climate resilience. These emerging leaders are the driving force behind practical solutions that address the industry's most pressing challenges.
Hon. Peter Kapala, Zambia's Minister of Fisheries and Livestock, emphasized the government's commitment to poultry development. Zambia takes pride in its regional leadership, particularly in the export of day-old chicks and specialty birds. The government's comprehensive plan includes empowering smallholder farmers, improving access to quality resources, and promoting value addition. This commitment aligns with the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), positioning Zambia as a regional leader in poultry development.
Discussions at the forum will focus on partnering with private sector players to expand regional feed manufacturing and strengthen input supply chains. Countries will also share their experiences in testing climate-resilient production and disease management practices, showcasing their commitment to long-term sector sustainability. These practices, including improved genetics and animal health solutions, aim to build a competitive and resilient poultry sector, capable of withstanding climate stress and animal health risks.
Alexander Stewart, Technical Lead of the Southern Africa Poultry Initiative (SAPI), emphasized the importance of policy and regulatory alignment. Through coordinated efforts, partners aim to help countries draft and refine national poultry action plans, ensuring they are in sync with regional goals for food security and economic growth.
The forum features Deal Rooms, where AGRA will catalyze partnerships between agribusinesses, investors, and development financiers. This platform aims to accelerate enterprise growth and financing opportunities across the entire value chain, from feed production and processing to packaging and cold chain logistics.
As the Poultry Futures Forum 2025 unfolds, the future of the poultry industry in Southern Africa looks brighter than ever. With a united regional approach, innovative solutions, and a focus on youth and women, the industry is poised for transformative growth. But what do you think? Is a shared regional approach the key to unlocking the full potential of the poultry sector? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
