Poultry

Poultry producers across sub-Saharan Africa can now access grandparents production. (Image source: Cobb)

Advancing poultry production, food security and agricultural development across East Africa, Cobb-Vantress and Irvine’s Group have opened Cobb East Africa Limited, a joint venture Grandparent Facility located in Naibili Village, Siha District, Kilimanjaro Region 

As a result of the combined investment, the facility will bring international-scale poultry genetics expertise to Africa. When a dynamic market for affordable protien like East Africa's has to wait for breeding stock imported from overseas, logistical and supply chain gaps become exposed. One of the rapidly evolving poultry market, a genetics supply base will make a huge difference for East Africa as it will eliminate the need for overseas dependence when the source becomes available at hand.

With the new facility becoming operational, poultry producers across sub-Saharan Africa can now access to grandparents production in support of generating parent stock. This will give producers a competitive edge empowered by reliable supply chains, shorter lead times and heightened market engagement. 

The proximity of the facility also enables stronger on-the-ground technical support and closer collaboration with Cobb specialists — helping customers achieve improved flock performance and productivity at farm level.

“The opening of Cobb East Africa represents a major step forward in our long-term commitment to the African poultry industry,” said Shelby Watkins. “This investment is about more than expanding production capacity, it is about strengthening food security, supporting local farmers, creating sustainable employment opportunities, and helping make high-quality protein more accessible and affordable for families across East Africa. We are proud to partner with the region as it continues to grow and develop its agricultural potential.”

Theo Bezuidenhout added: “This is the culmination of years of planning and shared vision. The impact on local employment and economic activity has already been significant, and we believe this is only the beginning for what Cobb East Africa can deliver for the region.”

Craig Irvine, CEO of Irvine’s Group, said the joint venture was the natural culmination of a relationship stretching back to 1962. “Irvine’s Group has distributed Cobb genetics across Africa for more than six decades. We know this market deeply, and Cobb East Africa demonstrates what is possible when you combine that knowledge and experience with the world’s finest poultry genetics.”

Will Sawyer said “Facilities like Cobb East Africa help position us to better support customers through improved surety of supply and enhanced service capability, as the poultry industry in East Africa continues to show strong potential for growth.”

Approximately 140 jobs have already been created through the development of the facility, with 98% of employees being Tanzanian citizens, contributing directly to local economic activity and improved livelihoods in surrounding communities.

Cost-effective formulation for broiler chickens in Tanzania.

In a relief for farmers when it comes to tackling huge feed expenses, White Frank of Afrimix Animal Feeds has developed a locally-sourced poultry feed formula that can cut production costs by 20 per cent

The innovation comes after a decade-long experiment that resulted in a cost-effective formulation for broiler chickens to reach market weights.

While established poultry feed brands currently retail for between 80,000 and 110,000 Tanzanian shillings per bag, depending on category and quality, Afrimix is aiming to launch its products in the price range of 70,000 and 75,000 shillings per bag. The strategy centers on maintaining quality while making feed more affordable for both small-scale and commercial producers.

Comprised largely on locally sourced ingredients, the feed formula empowers farmers by eliminating expensive commercial and imported inputs. Coming at a time when rising costs pose a challenge, this is a win for the industry as a whole.

Frank’s research has received scientific acknowledgement as product development was supported by an initial grant of US$5,700 through the MAKISATU programme coordinated by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

Researchers from Sokoine University of Agriculture were also involved in developing the new formulation, which helped broiler chickens reach market weights of between 1.5 and 2 kilograms within commercially acceptable periods, declining production costs by approximately 20 per cent compared to conventional feeding systems. 

According to Frank, weight-based pricing would motivate farmers to adopt innovations that enhance productivity.

The Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Ambassador Bashiru Ally recently announced that the country now operates 27 poultry breeding farms, including 25 parent-stock farms and two grandparent-stock farms, alongside 28 hatcheries.

Afrimix's next goal is to attain commercial production in collaboration with the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology. Frank has identified that more than half of Tanzania’s poultry feed market remains untapped, which can be leveraged by local manufacturers. The company plans to begin distribution in Dar es Salaam, Coast Region, and Morogoro before expanding to Dodoma, Singida, Kilimanjaro, and Arusha.

Murat Yakar, General Manager of Aviagen Arabia. (Image source: Aviagen)

Aviagen has announced the promotion of Murat Yakar to General Manager of Aviagen Arabia, marking a strategic step forward as the company continues to expand its footprint across the Middle East and surrounding regions

This appointment highlights Aviagen’s long-standing commitment to developing talent from within its own ranks. Murat was selected following a comprehensive internal process, reinforcing the company’s focus on identifying, nurturing and advancing high-potential leaders. His progression reflects a broader corporate philosophy centered on sustainable growth, leadership continuity and investment in people.

Since joining Aviagen in 2016, Murat has played a pivotal role across Türkiye, the Middle East and Africa. Over the years, he has taken on increasing levels of responsibility, contributing to key initiatives and playing an instrumental role in driving regional performance. His experience across diverse markets has equipped him with a strong understanding of both operational demands and customer needs, positioning him well for his new role.

Within his role, Murat will lead the establishment and development of Aviagen Arabia’s operations, a critical component of the company’s broader regional strategy. His leadership will play a pivotal role in driving growth, strengthening customer relationships and ensuring that Aviagen’s global standards are effectively implemented at a local level.

The timing of the appointment is particularly notable, as the poultry sector across the Middle East continues to evolve, shaped by rising demand, technological advancement and increasing focus on food security.

As Aviagen continues to build momentum in the TMEA region, the promotion of Murat Yakar represents more than a leadership change – it underscores a clear direction of growth, stability and confidence in the future. His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Aviagen Arabia, with a strong emphasis on expansion, customer collaboration and delivering long-term value across the region.

Natasha Hall as Vice President VIV Worldwide. (Image credit: VIV WORLD)

VIV Worldwide is entering a new phase of global development with the appointment of Natasha Hall as Vice President VIV Worldwide by Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs | VNU Group.

The move signals a renewed focus on expanding the international reach of the VIV brand and strengthening its role as a leading platform for the global livestock and agrifood industry. The announcement also comes at an important time as preparations gather pace for major upcoming VIV events around the world.

The appointment arrives just months ahead of VIV Europe 2026, which will take place from 2 to 4 June at Koninklijke Jaarbeurs in Utrecht. This edition is particularly significant as it marks the 25th anniversary of the event, one of the most recognised trade gatherings for professionals across the feed to food chain. At the same time, the organisation is also preparing to launch VIV Select India, which will make its debut from 22 to 24 April in New Delhi, opening new opportunities in one of the fastest growing livestock markets.

Hall’s promotion reflects the organisation’s confidence in her leadership and international outlook. Jeroen van Hooff, President and CEO of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs, emphasised the impact she has already made within the organisation. "From the very start of her time at Jaarbeurs in 2025, Natasha has made a clear mark on the development of VIV Asia, where her international work experience and strategic vision contributed to growth, positioning and market connection. Her new role sets her up for the next step within the organisation and for further developing VIV as a globally leading B2B platform for the poultry and livestock sector."

In her new role, Hall will oversee the complete global VIV portfolio across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East and Africa region. Her responsibilities include the international VIV trade shows along with VIV Connect and the VIV Trade Forums. A key priority will be expanding the global network of exhibitors, visitors and industry partners while strengthening the international visibility of the VIV brand.

With more than a decade of experience in the exhibitions industry in Dubai, Hall brings strong international expertise to the role. "I see VIV as a unique global platform that brings together the entire feed to food chain, and I consider that integrated approach to be an important differentiating strength," said Hall.

Her appointment also comes during a milestone year for the brand. VIV Europe 2026 will celebrate its 25th edition and will also mark the decision to move the event to a biennial schedule from 2028 onwards. "VIV Europe has grown into a reliable and forward-looking platform where strategy, technology and business come together. The anniversary edition in June will once again bring hundreds of international exhibitors and thousands of professionals from the global feed to food chain to Utrecht — a recognised hub for agrifood innovation, science and sustainable chain development."