Published on Oct. 28, 2025
Hendrix Genetics Earns FAO Recognition and Strengthens Global Sustainability Efforts
Boxmeer, the Netherlands – October 29, 2025 – Hendrix Genetics received Technical Recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in the category of Sustainable Livestock Transformation. The award was presented in mid-October during the FAO’s 80th anniversary celebrations and the World Food Forum in Rome.
The recognition highlights Hendrix Genetics’ project “Driving genetics innovation in support of the most in need: developing resilient dual-purpose chicken breeds for rural and low-input systems in Africa.” This initiative is part of the Securing Affordability of Poultry Parent Stocks in Africa (SAPPSA) program, co-funded by Hendrix Genetics and the Gates Foundation. Since its launch in 2018, SAPPSA has enabled 31 million smallholder farmers to access resilient poultry genetics, including nearly eight million in 2025 alone.
“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 key component of SAPPSA is the Recurrent Testing initiative in Burkina Faso, which evaluates poultry performance under tropical conditions. These tests are conducted in partnership with the avian selection center Coq du Faso and aim to ensure locally adapted and economically viable breeds for smallholder farmers.
Building on this recognition, Hendrix Genetics is extending its sustainability efforts beyond genetics to address global nutrition challenges. In September 2025, the company became an official partner of the International Egg Foundation (IEF), an organization focused on improving health and nutrition in vulnerable communities through sustainable egg production. Hendrix Genetics is joining the IEF Advisory Board and, in line with its contribution to IEF projects, has committed to an initial donation of high-quality ISA Brown layer birds to support the new poultry training facility of the Ebenezer Agricultural Training Centre in Mozambique. This initiative aims to strengthen local capacity by providing students with hands-on experience in poultry management and sustainable egg production, equipping them with the skills to establish their own farms and improve access to high-quality affordable protein in the region.
As part of its global sustainability program, Hendrix Genetics has implemented a revised travel policy that prioritizes environmental responsibility. “By rethinking how we travel and investing in reforestation, we’re turning everyday decisions into meaningful climate action,” said Naomi Duijvesteijn, Global Sustainability Director at Hendrix Genetics. The company launched a carbon offset program in partnership with FairShares, supporting the CommuniTree Carbon initiative in Nicaragua. This program enables smallholder farmers to reforest underused land, restoring ecosystems and creating long-term income opportunities. The collaboration is expected to offset 2,100 tons of CO₂ annually equivalent to planting approximately 14,000 trees.
These initiatives underscore Hendrix Genetics’ continued focus on advancing sustainability in animal breeding and food production. By integrating innovation with measurable impact, the company aims to support a livestock sector that contributes positively to human and animal well-being, as well as the responsible use of natural resources.
About Hendrix Genetics
Hendrix Genetics is a leading multi-species animal breeding company with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and genetic excellence. The company provides advanced breeding solutions in Layers, Turkeys, Swine, Salmon, Trout, Shrimps and Traditional Poultry. With operations in more than 25 countries and a global network of research and production facilities, Hendrix Genetics is supporting the food supply chain with high-performing, resilient animals that meet the evolving needs of producers and consumers worldwide. By investing in science-driven solutions, Hendrix Genetics contributes to sustainable future and resilient global animal protein production.
You can find more information about Coq du Faso and Poulet du Faso in these articles :
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Iris Dolorosa
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Yama Olumi
Director Corporate Communication – Hendrix Genetics
