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In August 2025, 333 Africa was proud to attend the PigX2 event, a major gathering that brought together experts, innovators, and stakeholders from across the global pig production industry. This event served as an important platform for discussing the latest advancements in pig farming, with a particular focus on improving production efficiency and welfare standards across diverse systems. As part of our commitment to strengthening Africa’s pig industry, 333 Africa is actively involved in various initiatives, which unites leaders from across the continent to tackle shared challenges and promote sustainable practices.
In this context, we sat down with Dr. Craig Lewis, a leader in genetics and animal welfare, to discuss the future of pig production in Africa and the vital role of knowledge sharing and collaboration in shaping that future.
Dr. Craig Lewis was raised on a family farm in Herefordshire and holds advanced degrees in Animal Behavior and Welfare as well as Animal Breeding and Genetics. After earning his PhD from The Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh and completing research in Australia, Dr. Lewis now oversees Genetic Dissemination for Genus PIC across the EMEAR region, working with pig producers ranging from developing farmers in Africa to large integrated food companies. He is also Chair of the Steering Committee for the European Forum for Farm Animal Breeders (EFFAB). With numerous publications and international lectures to his name, Dr. Lewis is a strong advocate of science-based decision-making across the food chain, focusing on translating research into practical tools that address evolving societal demands and deliver ethical, nutritious, and sustainable animal protein.
Dr. Craig, what would you say about what the pig production of tomorrow in Africa will look like?
What I love about Africa is the diversity of production systems. We have everything, from modern facilities comparable to those in other parts of the world, to smallholder farmers still developing their operations which means there are tremendous opportunities ahead. When we talk about the pigs of the future, we need to focus on production efficiency and feed conversion, but fundamentally, here in Africa, it’s about health and robustness. The continued use of new breeding technologies and the delivery of high-value genetics into the hands of local farmers could make a huge difference.
At 333 Africa, we’ve launched several projects to help unify and strengthen the industry, such as the Connect Africa initiative, which brings together leaders from across the continent. What do you think about these efforts?
These projects are fundamental. At the end of the day, we need to provide local farmers with the right tools. The work 333 is doing, educating, building networks, creating community, and sharing knowledge; will make a real impact. If we combine that with support from the allied industry to improve nutrition and supply the right genetics, the people here have everything they need to succeed. And with Africa’s growing population, the opportunity for pork consumption is enormous.
How did you build a system that understands both genetics and farm management?
What’s crucial is understanding that it’s not just about delivering genetic improvement but ensuring that farmers can realize that improvement. We firmly believe that local understanding matters. It would be easy to simply ship genetics to Africa, but success depends on how that potential is expressed locally. That’s why we work closely with farmers and partners who truly understand their markets and realities like you in Ghana and Nigeria. Listening and collaborating with local experts allows us to deliver genuine value.
Considering PIC’s strong technical expertise and commitment to knowledge sharing, how do you envision future collaboration with 333 Africa in amplifying science-based messages and supporting producers both online and through field projects?
I believe the mission of 333 Africa is vital. We need to make sure good messages reach the people who can use them. Whether it’s genetics, nutrition, health, or biosecurity, all of it matters. I really admire the work your team is doing to amplify those messages. If we can raise the bar together a little higher each day, then ten years from now, the potential for pig production in Africa will be extraordinary.
You’ve visited Africa several times and have a clear vision for its future. Where do you think the pig industry will be in five years?
Africa’s growth will be about evolution, not revolution. It’s all about making steady, marginal gains. For example, if a farmer currently achieves twelve pigs per sow per year, the next step isn’t thirty, it’s fifteen. That improvement alone can transform lives and livelihoods. We want the industry here to continue progressing just as it has in Europe, North America, and Latin America, combined with increasing domestic pork consumption, the outlook for Africa’s pig industry is incredibly positive.
Thank you so much, Dr. Craig. We appreciate what you represent for the industry, and we wish you continued success in your upcoming projects.
