The once-thriving Witvlei abattoir, a key facility in Namibia’s beef export industry, is back on the market as the Agricultural Bank of Namibia (Agribank) seeks to dispose of the dormant asset for N$51.7 million.
Agribank has issued a formal notice inviting offers for the entire abattoir and its associated properties, with no option to purchase components separately.
The bank is calling for full payment upfront from the highest bidder, with only verifiable Namibian bank guarantees accepted. Irrevocable foreign guarantees may be considered, and a penalty of N$1 million will apply for withdrawal of guarantees.
The Witvlei abattoir, located in the Omaheke Region, once played a central role in boosting Namibia’s beef processing and export capacity.
“Agribank shall only accept offer payments in full and not in instalments from the highest bidder,” Agribank’s Chief Executive Raphael Karuaihe told The Brief on Wednesday.
It was previously leased to Witvlei Meat, a company owned by businessman Sidney Martin, who paid N$250,000 per month since 2006. However, a failed purchase agreement and legal dispute over ownership led to the company’s eviction in 2019, following a High Court ruling.
Since then, the facility has remained idle, despite its potential to support regional farmers and re-establish Namibia’s position in the international meat market.
“Only verifiable Namibian Bank guarantees shall be accepted. Or irrevocable foreign bank guarantees issued to our local banker in our favour, shall only be accepted after verification by our local banker on the validity of the guarantee,” he added.
Agribank has made it clear the sale is final, with no negotiation on terms.
The property will be sold as is and the buyer will assume all compliance and transfer costs.
A compulsory site visit is scheduled for 25 August 2025 at 10h00, open to all serious bidders.
As Namibia looks to revitalise its agricultural economy, the sale of the Witvlei abattoir presents a rare opportunity to restore a key piece of infrastructure and breathe new life into the country’s meat industry. The closing date of the bids is 2 September 2025.
