Hendrix Genetics earns FAO recognition for advancing sustainable livestock

AFRICA – Hendrix Genetics, a global leader in animal breeding, genetics, and technology, has received Technical Recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for its contribution to Sustainable Livestock Transformation in Africa. 

The honor was conferred during the FAO’s 80th anniversary celebrations and the World Food Forum, held in Rome from October 10–17, 2025.

The recognition celebrates Hendrix Genetics’ project titled “Driving genetics innovation in support of the most in need: Developing resilient dual-purpose chicken breeds for rural and low-input systems in Africa.” 

The initiative, part of the Securing Affordability of Poultry Parent Stocks in Africa (SAPPSA) program, is co-funded by Hendrix Genetics and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Since its inception in 2018, SAPPSA has helped more than 31 million smallholder farmers across Africa access resilient poultry genetics, with nearly eight million beneficiaries recorded in 2025 alone. 

The program’s focus on developing dual-purpose chicken breeds, suitable for both meat and egg production, aims to strengthen food security and economic resilience in low-input rural systems.

“Receiving this recognition from the FAO is a profound moment for us,” said Richard Maatman, CEO of Hendrix Genetics. “It validates our belief that social entrepreneurship – alongside animal welfare and climate resilience – is not just a pillar of our sustainability strategy, but a force for real-world impact.”

A cornerstone of SAPPSA is the Recurrent Testing initiative in Burkina Faso, which evaluates poultry performance under tropical conditions. 

Conducted in partnership with Coq du Faso, the avian selection center, the program ensures that breeds are locally adapted, economically viable, and able to thrive in African farming environments.

By combining advanced genetics with on-the-ground testing, Hendrix Genetics is bridging the gap between innovation and practical application, supporting farmers to increase productivity while maintaining sustainability.

Expanding sustainability beyond genetics

Building on its FAO recognition, Hendrix Genetics is broadening its impact beyond genetics to tackle global nutrition challenges. In September 2025, the company became an official partner of the International Egg Foundation (IEF), joining its Advisory Board and contributing to IEF’s mission to improve health and nutrition in vulnerable communities through sustainable egg production.

As part of this collaboration, Hendrix Genetics has donated high-quality ISA Brown layer birds to the new poultry training facility at the Ebenezer Agricultural Training Centre in Mozambique. 

The initiative will provide students with hands-on training in poultry management and sustainable egg production, equipping them with the knowledge to establish their own farms and improve access to affordable, high-quality protein in their communities.

“By rethinking how we travel and investing in reforestation, we’re turning everyday decisions into meaningful climate action,” noted Naomi Duijvesteijn, Global Sustainability Director at Hendrix Genetics.

The company’s revised travel policy reflects this mindset, incorporating a carbon offset program developed with FairShares. 

The initiative supports the CommuniTree Carbon project in Nicaragua, where smallholder farmers reforest underused land, restoring ecosystems while generating long-term income. 

The collaboration is projected to offset 2,100 tons of CO₂ annually, equivalent to planting around 14,000 trees.

According to Hendrix Genetics, these initiatives demonstrate the company’s ongoing commitment to making animal breeding and food production more sustainable. 

By integrating innovation, social entrepreneurship, and environmental stewardship, Hendrix Genetics is working toward a livestock sector that enhances both human and animal well-being while protecting the planet’s natural resources.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.