Meatco says it has been able to reduce its water use last month despite an increase in the number of cattle slaughtered at its Windhoek abattoir.
A total of 14 038 cattle were slaughtered at the Windhoek abattoir in July. That was a huge increase from the 8 533 cattle slaughtered in May and also up from June when 11 337 cattle were slaughtered.
According to Meatco’s figures it used 18 772 cubic metres of water in May, which increased to 22 643 cubic metres in June and dropped slightly to 21 771 cubic metres in July.
According to Meatco’s maintenance planner, Manneckey Khoe-Aob, the company is taking the necessary steps to reduce water use while still complying with European Union hygiene regulations.
“There is a significant difference between May and July in terms of the number of cattle slaughtered and the water used. With production figures climbing and less water input, the abattoir’s efficiency can only improve in order to maximise productivity and gains,” he said.
Meatco’s abattoir in Okahandja has been temporarily closed because of low slaughter volumes and the water crisis in central Namibia. The abattoir will remain closed until the situation improves.
President Hage Geingob declared a national state of emergency at the end of June.
Meanwhile, the total level of the three dams supplying central Namibia has dropped to 9.6%.
STAFF REPORTER