Rabbit farming is on the rise in South Africa, offering a promising alternative for small-scale and commercial farmers alike. With a growing demand for rabbit meat locally and abroad, this sector is proving to be a valuable avenue for agricultural diversification.
In a recent Gather to Grow Instagram live session, industry experts delved into the intricacies of rabbit farming, including production, breeding, and export opportunities.
Rising demand for rabbits
Jeremiah Jothams, rabbit farmer and founder of Basadi Agribusiness, shared how he entered the rabbit farming industry. He shared that the sector is growing and there is an increasing demand for rabbit meat, particularly in international markets.
“Business is going well. At this current stage, the demand is quite high, but the supply of livestock is pretty slow and low at the moment,” he said.
Jothams highlighted that many farmers are hesitant to explore rabbit farming, preferring to stick with more traditional livestock like chickens. However, the potential for profit in rabbit farming is undeniable.
He explained that the industry is relatively small and underdeveloped, providing an excellent opportunity for new farmers to enter the market.
Jothams provided practical advice on selecting rabbit breeds for commercial production
“New Zealand whites are the best in terms of meat production,” he said, noting that these rabbits can produce between 6 and 12 kits (baby rabbits) per litter, making them ideal for meat farming.
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Exporting rabbit meat: Stringent EU regulations
Salamina Maelane, agriculture minister counsellor based in Brussels, discussed the complexities of exporting rabbit meat to international markets, particularly the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom. South Africa was recently listed for rabbit meat exports to the EU, opening doors to one of the world’s strictest markets.
“For you to have market access, you need to check the EU regulation. It will be specified step by step,” she said.
The listing of South African rabbit meat for export to the EU marks a significant milestone for the industry, signalling potential growth in export volumes. However, Maelana advised farmers to work closely with state veterinarians and national agricultural bodies to ensure their production processes meet international standards.
Research and climate change impact on rabbit farming
A researcher studying the New Zealand white rabbit buck, Tlou Kujoana, shared his perspective. From his research focused on improving the reproductive performance of this breed, he highlighted the role of fibre-rich plants like Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus linn).
This is an indigenous medicinal plant that enhances rabbit nutrition. “Fibre is essential for improving the digestive system and nutrient absorption,” he said.
By focusing on sustainable practices and improving rabbit nutrition, Kujoana shared that his research can help farmers mitigate the effects of climate change on their herds.
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