Maranatha Poultry, one of Namibia’s leading poultry producers, has unveiled an ambitious US$13.7 million expansion programme that will more than double its current production capacity and significantly strengthen regional poultry supply chains. The investment signals strong confidence in both Namibia’s domestic poultry market and growing regional demand, while positioning the company as a major contributor to food security and agro-industrial growth in southern Africa.
At present, Maranatha Poultry produces between 200 and 250 tonnes of chicken per month, largely supplying the local market. Once the expansion is completed, monthly output is expected to exceed 800 tonnes, enabling the company to meet rising demand from retailers, wholesalers, and institutional buyers. The expansion spans the entire value chain, including hatchery upgrades, farm operations, abattoir capacity, and modernised processing facilities. Construction and upgrades are scheduled to be completed by 2026, transforming Maranatha into a high-efficiency, large-scale poultry operation.
Managing Director Shaun Esterhuizen explained that the expansion will follow a carefully phased approach to ensure sustainable growth. “The hatchery is our starting point. Securing a reliable supply of healthy chicks is essential before scaling up the abattoir and processing facilities. This allows us to grow volumes without compromising quality or operational stability,” he said. This strategic sequencing is designed to reduce risk while aligning production increases with market demand.
Beyond production infrastructure, Maranatha is also investing heavily in transport and logistics. Improved distribution capacity will allow poultry products to reach markets more efficiently across Namibia’s vast distances, ensuring that higher production volumes translate into consistent availability and improved customer service. Strengthening logistics is a critical pillar of the company’s long-term competitiveness.
Maranatha already plays a vital role in Namibia’s poultry ecosystem, employing more than 120 people and sourcing a significant portion of its supply from local farmers in the Stampriet area. The expansion is expected to create additional jobs and stimulate economic activity in surrounding agricultural communities. Looking beyond national borders, the company is also exploring export opportunities into neighbouring markets, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, further supporting regional food security and intra-African trade.
The expansion comes at a time of strong growth in Namibia’s poultry sector. By September 2025, approximately 14.4 million chickens had been slaughtered nationwide, reflecting rising consumption and commercial activity. Despite this growth, Namibia continues to import nearly 15.9 million kilograms of poultry—mostly from South Africa—highlighting a persistent supply gap. Maranatha’s expansion directly addresses this imbalance, reducing reliance on imports while strengthening domestic production capacity.
Exports are also gaining momentum, with processed poultry products valued at around US$2.2 million already reaching regional markets. With increased output and modernised facilities, Maranatha is well positioned to expand its export footprint and reinforce Namibia’s reputation as a reliable poultry supplier in southern Africa.
Overall, Maranatha Poultry’s US$13.7 million expansion marks a transformative milestone for both the company and Namibia’s poultry industry. By scaling production, modernising infrastructure, improving logistics, and supporting local farmers, the project promises to drive job creation, reduce imports, and enhance regional trade—contributing meaningfully to long-term food security and sustainable agricultural growth.
