LIMPOPO – Harmonie Abattoir near Letsitele was named the best abattoir in Limpopo for the third consecutive year.

Harmonie received the prestigious Provincial Abattoir Rating Scheme (PARS) award at a ceremony held recently at Fumani Game Lodge in Mookgopong.

The annual event, hosted by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, recognises outstanding abattoirs across the province for their commitment to the highest food safety and operational standards.

According to business manager Gertjie du Plessis, the Harmonie team represented the Mopani district and has maintained its winning streak in the Low Throughput (LT) category for the past three years. PARS, also known as the Meat Safety Scheme Awards, is based on annual departmental audits that assess hygiene, infrastructure, and overall food safety compliance.

“Being recognised as the leading abattoir in Mopani is a great privilege,” said du Plessis. “We are grateful to our dedicated team, the inspectors, Agriculture MEC Nakedi Kekana, and all department representatives for their commitment to food safety. We also thank our clients, suppliers, and everyone who has supported us over the years. We remain humbled and thankful to God for the opportunity and trust to represent our province. This achievement proves that with hard work and passion, dreams can indeed come true.”

In 2023/24, Harmonie also received the coveted MEC Award, which recognises overall excellence across all categories, including beef, poultry, game meat, and export abattoirs throughout Limpopo. Du Plessis described the MEC Award as a once-in-a-lifetime honour and a highlight in the company’s history.

Harmonie Abattoir has, over the years, built a strong track record of success in the PARS programme. The abattoir was named second runner-up in 2015/16, 2016/17, and 2019/20, and took first runner-up position in 2018. No awards were presented between 2020 and 2022 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but since 2023, Harmonie Abattoir has continued to claim the top position each year.