By Zwi Maphiri, Matsobane Manaka and Maphuti Machabaphala
Tour in Lebowakgomo Abattoir facility.
As stated during her budget vote in 2025/26 to drive the inclusive growth of the economy, create sustainable job opportunities, and promote food security, Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has finally gave a green light for operationalising of Ga- Mashashane Hatchery and the infamous Lebowakgomo Chicken Abattoir on 14 April 2025.
MECs of Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) Nakedi Kekana and Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Tshitereke Mathibe in partnership with the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Land Bank SA and Montana Agriculture and Mining as stakeholders, have formed part of the much-anticipated operation of these facilities which brought a sigh of relief to broiler growers who were struggling to break even into the mainstream market.
The facilities will further bring in a value chain which will unlock much needed job opportunities to the communities.
The Lebowakgomo Abattoir located in the Habakuk industrial park under the Capricorn District is a state-of-the-art Chicken Abattoir that is expected to be a great economic stimulus for the Local subsistence and small holder poultry farmers including those within the 130KM radius as stipulated in the food safety regulations of transporting the birds from the farms to the abattoir. This local economic booster will be evident in the projected 800+ jobs from the value chain, with the abattoir anticipating a profit of R2 billion while producing 1.5 million chickens on average in a month.
The chairperson of Montana Agriculture and Mining Dr Manson Mnaba mentioned that they plan to build houses for the employees in a bid to reduce the traveling costs for the workers. The move is to ensure more disposable income for the betterment of their lives and families.
The initiative further seeks to strengthen the relationship with Land Bank to allow for the financial institution to fund farmers to create a conducive and compliant farming environment for subsistence and small holder farmers to participate and contribute to the poultry market.
MEC Nakedi Kekana alluded that this project forms part of the reactionary programmes highlighted by the Premier during the 2025/26 State of the Province Address (SOPA) and are a monogamous commitment of the provincial government’s efforts in stimulating economic growth, creating sustainable jobs and promoting food security.
“We are proud to witness the operationalisation of these strategic projects, which represent a significant step in transforming our rural economy. The hatchery and abattoir will not only create much-needed jobs, but also empower communities by imparting valuable agricultural skills to our youth. These facilities are tangible proof of our commitment to building a capable and self-sustaining province.”, said Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
