The cage-free movement, driven by global change-makers advocating for improved conditions for egg-laying hens, is rapidly gaining ground in Africa. This movement, which has already prompted thousands of companies worldwide to end the practice of sourcing eggs from caged hens, is now making inroads into African businesses.

A recent report from the Open Wing Alliance, a global coalition of animal protection organizations, provides an in-depth overview of the state of cage-free commitments across the African continent.

The report emphasizes that companies operating in Africa have a significant opportunity and responsibility to make a positive impact on people, the environment, and animal welfare. With Africa’s population and formal economy expected to grow more rapidly than any other continent, cage-free commitments are crucial in ensuring that millions of hens are spared from life in cages.

Key points from the report include:

• Over 80 companies in Africa, including major players like Famous Brands and Majid Al Futtaim, have pledged to transition to cage-free sourcing, sparing millions of hens from cruelty in their supply chains. However, some companies, such as Pick n Pay, have yet to make these commitments.
• Market leaders from various industries are embracing the cage-free movement, with food manufacturing and the hotel industry leading the way, featuring commitments from 30 and 25 companies, respectively. Notable sector leaders, like Unilever and Marriott, are part of this transition.
• The restaurant and foodservice sector is also making significant progress, with over 20 companies committed, including prominent groups like Famous Brands and Sodexo. In contrast, the retail sector lags behind, with only a few companies, like Majid Al Futtaim, having made cage-free pledges.

Given Africa’s projected population and economic growth in the coming years, immediate cage-free commitments are essential to protect hundreds of millions of hens from life in confinement.