Participants from four countries came together to discuss growth opportunities for Southern Africa and improve their knowledge of feed manufacturing, sharing knowledge and comparing operations at the first-ever Southern Africa Feed Manufacturing Training Activity held March 5–9 at the Kansas State University International Grains Program Conference Center.
Extrusion basics, record keeping and batching and mixing were among the topics discussed during the course. “There is a lot of opportunity in Southern Africa for growth," said course manager Carlos Campabadal. "If we can help them gain a better understanding of how to run their operations, or just do their job better, the whole industry benefits. This particular group seemed to enjoy sharing information among each other by telling stories and experiences they’ve had."
As a director and manager for a family business, participant Hellen Zalira said she found the field trips to feed manufacturing operations the most beneficial part of the course. “We’re expanding our feed operation to include swine due to the Chinese coming into our country and their interest in this species," said Zalira. "I liked seeing the ingredients that the operations here use to produce this kind of feed." Peer interaction was also a plus. “We learn from each other," she said. "I learned a lot from my colleagues and identified opportunities that exist among them. Networking opportunities back home just aren’t there."
For more information about other International Grains Program course offerings go to www.ksu.edu/igp.
