HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
1. ESTABLISHMENT
The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) was established in 1904 in Kimberley, mainly as a body of poultry “fanciers” to co-ordinate and promote show holding and later to stage egg laying tests, and to provide an instrument to voice the feelings of the industry.
Historically, poultry was very much part of the South African scene. Thousands of people kept poultry, and it was seen as backyard industry. Of the largest units kept between two and four thousand birds under extensive conditions. Therefore, poultry clubs consisted of people from all walks of life who considered poultry also as a hobby. A number of poultry clubs were in existence, arranging competitions and shows. The main functions of the South African Poultry Association would thus be composing and formulating show rules and regulating the appointment of judges.
2. EARLY YEARS
The early years were difficult and turbulent, and the main issues always emerged as area representation and decentralization of management. Despite clashes between exhibitors and “commercial producers” – a bad word at the time – the Association forged ahead.
A South African Poultry Breeders Register was established in 1926, and in 1936 assurance was given that Government would definitely recognize SAPA as the representative organization of the industry. At SAPA’s request the Egg Control Board was established in 1951. The Poultry Bulletin was published by SAPA as its mouthpiece since 1937. Previously the Association selected various existing outside magazines to air its views.
3. MILESTONES
Milestones in the history of SAPA have been the upcoming commercial industry, as well as the work of the Association in the establishment of a Record of Production Register, which was deemed to be of great value at the time. SAPA was also instrumental in making available modern poultry equipment when hen batteries were still a new concept.
Other milestones include:
- Import tariff
- Livestock Improvement Act
- Bilateral Agreements
- GST on Livestock/VAT on eggs
- Training:
- SAPA/YTA courses
- Advanced veterinary training at UP Onderstepoort
- Techikon Pretoria advanced diploma
- Reduction of Surcharge on imported breeding material and equipment
- Central Reference Laboratory
4. FORMATION OF THE DPFO
A division of SAPA, called the DEVELOPING POULTRY FARMERS’ ORGANISATION (DPFO), was established in 2003 to cater for the specific needs and requirements of emerging and small-scale poultry producers. It is recognized by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) that specific and significant resources would have to be put in place in addition to merely creating an organization. Significant support will be required by both relevant government agencies and the private sector. The DPFO will have to fulfill a dynamic Capacity Building and Advocacy role, and will have to exert pressure in order to mobilize resources from various quarters, including government and the donor community.
The formation of the DPFO started a dynamic process that will enable emerging poultry farmers, from previously disadvantaged communities, to finally move into the mainstream of the economy.
SAPA TODAY
VISION
To create a milieu within which members can become world-class competitors in the food market.
MISSION
To be an industry driven organisation to address collective issues.
INDUSTRY OBJECTIVES
- Effective Management
- The industry has government support in joint initiatives
- Industry producers are united in common aims and objectives
- The industry has continuous growth in consumption and market share
- The industry has achieved competitive input costs
- South African zoosanitary measures are accepted by the world
- The industry has a data/information strategy (voluntary or statutory)
SAPA is a fully-fledged commercial representative body which is controlled by a Management Committee whose mission is to advance all matters tending towards the improvement of the poultry and allied industries in South Africa by embracing and co-ordinating the objects of subsidiary organisations.
The show section is still maintained, even though it represents more of a hobby, for history’s sake and because it is regarded as a constructive pastime.
The Management Committee has a threefold function –
- Co-ordinating
- Administration
- Collective interests
The Management Committee has three Interest Affiliates in the Broiler, Egg, Chick Producers’, and three Advisory Committees, viz., Feed, Technical and Training.
EGG ORGANISATION
This Organisation and its Committee have as main mission improving the egg industry and promoting it on a national level. This entails a critical evaluation of the methodology of control structures, achieving a higher level of operational input, liasing with Government on crucial matters, liasing with consumer bodies, and striving to build a stronger image for the egg industry on an ongoing basis.
BROILER ORGANISATION
The main objective of the Broiler Organisation and its Committee is to serve the interest of the broiler industry on a national level, which entails tending to poultry abattoir matters and promoting the Code of Practice for Abattoir; collection, compilation and distribution of statistics; to ensure that appropriate action is taken to promote positive aspects of the image of the broiler industry at large; to institute and maintain an importation protective tariff; and to present specific elements of training with regard to quality control personnel in abattoirs.
CHICK PRODUCERS’ ORGANISATION
This Organisation and its Committee give specialized attention to matters concerning the members of the Chick Producers’ Organisation to enable them to supply quality breeding stock for South Africa. The main objective is therefore to improve and maintain the standard of the country’s breeding stock. They monitor imports, stage a hatchery course, review regulations, stay abreast of developments in poultry breeding worldwide and provide members with technical information.