In an effort to improve its support for emerging pork farmers, the SA Pork Producers’ Organisation (Sappo) has launched a manual aimed at the informal sector, small-scale pig producer who wishes to upgrade to a commercial operation.
The manual, entitled Pigs for Profit, was co-authored by two experts in the field, Dr Jim Robinson and Mary-Louise Penrith, veterinarians who both have extensive experience in the commercial and informal pig-keeping areas of South, East and West Africa. “This is tangible evidence of our commitment to the emerging sector,” said Sappo chairperson John Wright. “Education is a priority if you want to ensure sustainability, and this manual ensures that Sappo’s emerging policy has a sound basis to work from.”
H e said that while there were many useful pamphlets in circulation, there was no information available in a consolidated form to help emerging farmers with small herds to obtain the best possible results using the resources within their means. The manual devotes a large section to the various diseases found in pigs, as well as information on business plans, marketing, housing, feeding, biosecurity, transport, slaughtering and meat inspection. Full-colour photographs accompany each section, making it highly accessible to most readers.
A ccording to Dr Robinson, the manual has unique aspirations. “This is an unusual situation, where a leading organisation has used its membership fees to design and support a system which they hope will eventually produce competition for them in the market.” – Gwenda van Zyl The manual can be ordered from Sappo for R30. Contact Sally Bosman on (012) 361 3920.
