Evonik opens new NIR lab for animal nutrition in Nairobi
Last week, Evonik inaugurated its first laboratory for its animal nutrition business in Nairobi (Kenya). Equipped with state-of-the-art NIR technology, the facility helps feed producers evaluate their raw materials through accurate analysis of a very wide range of nutrients. Furthermore, analysis of poultry feeds is also covered by this unique service.
The new Evonik laboratory brings vital technical support to the local and regional feed markets. “We hope to extend the best levels of support to our partners not only in Kenya but in the entire East African region including countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia and Rwanda”, said John Owaga, Technical Service Manager for Animal Nutrition in East Africa at Evonik.
Animal nutrition has become a more exact science over the past decades. To formulate feed according to a certain specification requires knowledge about the nutrient contents of all relevant raw materials. Since these vary considerably, it is important to analyse the raw materials on an ongoing basis with latest NIR technology (near-infrared spectroscopy). This ensures high feed quality and keeps feed costs under control.
“At Evonik, we see great potentials in the East African market coming from the double-digit growth of the poultry industry in recent years”, commented Cuthbert Mamabolo, Regional Business Director for Animal Nutrition at Evonik.
Five years ago, Evonik established a direct presence in East Africa with a representative office in Kenya. However, the German specialty chemicals producer was active in this region for decades through external distributors. Today, Evonik caters to the feed industry for poultry, dairy, pigs and fish with key products such as MetAMINO®, Biolys®, Ecobiol®, Mepron® and CreAMINO®.
Evonik offers partners unique products and services with a great emphasis on technical support that the company tailors to individual customer needs. Hence, opening a laboratory in Kenya is a key strategic decision taken to bring technology closer to the clients and better understand their needs.