How to succeed in poultry farming in kenya

Poultry Farming is one of the most popular subsectors of agriculture in Kenya, playing a critical role in the country’s food security and the economy. Poultry farming has also become an attractive source of investment, with a growing demand for poultry products nationwide. However, like any other agricultural enterprise, success in poultry farming depends on various factors that farmers must take into consideration.

Selecting the Right Poultry Breeds:

One essential step for success in poultry farming is selecting the right breed. Factors such as the market demand, climatic conditions, and local regulations must be taken into consideration when choosing the breed. Farmers should also consider factors such as the bird’s egg-size, feed requirements, growth rate, disease resistance, as well as the overall profitability of the breed.

Poultry Farming Structures:

Poultry farming structures play a crucial role in the success of a poultry farm business. The design and construction of poultry houses must take into account factors such as bird size, climatic conditions, sanitation, and disease prevention. Other considerations include ventilation, light exposure, feeders, and drinkers, as well as adequate fencing to prevent predators’ entry.

Feeding and Nutrition:

Feeding and nutrition is another critical aspect of success in poultry farming. Farmers should ensure their birds receive a balanced diet with adequate nutrients. The diet should include adequate levels of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Feeding should also be done following specific schedules to enhance productivity while reducing feeding costs. Poultry farmers may also engage the services of nutritionists to come up with a balanced feed formula.

Poultry Health:

Poultry health is crucial for successful poultry farming. Farmers must take precautions to prevent, diagnose, and treat various poultry diseases. Proper biosecurity measures such as quarantining new birds and routine disinfection of poultry houses are essential to prevent disease outbreaks. Farmers need to engage qualified veterinarians to conduct regular check-ups on the birds. Vaccination against poultry diseases such as Newcastle Disease and Gumboro is also crucial.

Marketing Strategy:

An effective marketing strategy is necessary for success in poultry farming. Farmers must establish relationships with poultry suppliers, local traders, as well as local and international buyers. Marketing strategies such as product branding and advertising can help reach a broader market and increase sales.

Record Keeping:

Proper record-keeping is essential for successful running of a poultry farm business. Proper records are a tool for monitoring productivity, analyzing performance, and measuring the profitability of the business. Record-keeping can help farmers identify their most productive breeds, monitor the cost of production, and determine the profitability of the business.

Quality Feed:

The quality of poultry feed is critical to the success of a poultry farm. Farmers should invest in high-quality feeds to ensure their birds receive a balanced diet with adequate nutrients. They should also explore options for producing their feed to reduce feeding costs and ensure quality.

Water Management:

Proper water management is crucial to the success of any poultry farming business. Farmers should ensure the availability of clean water at all times, with watering points located strategically around the poultry house. They should also invest in water treatment systems to improve the quality of the water.

Disease Prevention:

Disease prevention is vital in ensuring that a poultry farm stays productive. Farmers should establish effective biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of diseases. They should also implement measures such as pest control, vaccination, and regular veterinary check-ups to minimize disease outbreaks.

Egg Marketing:

Egg marketing is a crucial aspect of poultry farming in Kenya. Farmers should explore ways to market their eggs, including establishing direct relationships with consumers, selling to local traders and supermarkets, and exporting. They should also invest in egg branding and packaging to improve their egg’s marketability.

Training and Education:

Training and education are an essential aspect of achieving success in the poultry farming industry. Farmers should seek out training and education opportunities in poultry farming to enhance their knowledge and skills. They should also join industry associations and groups to network, share knowledge, and learn from each other.

Common Poultry Farming FAQs As Per Google

Q1. What is poultry farming?
A1. Poultry farming is a method of animal husbandry that involves raising domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese for meat, eggs, or feathers.

Q2. Is poultry farming profitable in Kenya?
A2. Yes, poultry farming can be very profitable in Kenya if done right. With the growing demand for poultry products in the country, there is a ready market for poultry farmers.

Q3. What is the cost of starting a poultry farm in Kenya?
A3. The cost of starting a poultry farm in Kenya varies depending on several factors such as the size of the farm, the type of birds, and the construction of the poultry house. Generally, it can cost anywhere from Ksh. 5,000 to Ksh. 250,000 to start a small-scale poultry farm business.

Q4. Which poultry breed is best for egg production in Kenya?
A4. There are several poultry breeds that are well-suited for egg production in Kenya, including the KARI Improved Kienyeji, Rhode Island Red, and the White Leghorn.

Q5. What is the average lifespan of a chicken?
A5. The average lifespan of a chicken is between 5 and 10 years, depending on the breed and their living conditions.

Q6. How do I prevent diseases in my poultry farm?
A6. Implementing proper biosecurity measures such as routine disinfection of the poultry house, quarantining new birds, and vaccination can help prevent diseases in a poultry farm.

Q7. What is the best way to market poultry products?
A7. To market poultry products, farmers can establish relationships with local traders, supermarkets, and direct consumers. They can also explore opportunities for exporting their products.

Q8. What is the ideal temperature for a chicken house?
A8. The ideal temperature for a chicken house is between 15°C to 30°C, depending on the age and size of the birds.

Q9. How do I know if a chicken egg is fertile?
A9. A fertile chicken egg has a small white ring on the yolk that can be seen when the egg is candled after seven days of incubation.

Q10. Can I feed my birds kitchen scraps?
A10. Yes, to a certain extent. However, feeding birds with kitchen scraps should be done cautiously to avoid introducing harmful bacteria to their feed.

Q11. What is the difference between organic and conventional poultry farming?
A11. Organic poultry farming involves the use of natural feed and raising birds in natural conditions, while conventional poultry farming involves the use of modern technologies such as genetically modified feed and artificial lighting systems.

Q12. How do I market my poultry products online?
A12. Farmers can market their poultry products online by establishing a social media presence, creating a website or online store, and engaging with potential customers through online marketing campaigns.

Q13. Can I keep multiple poultry breeds on the same farm?
A13. Yes, multiple poultry breeds can be kept on the same farm. However, farmers should ensure that the birds are compatible and avoid introducing disease into the flock.

Q14. How do I handle chicken manure?
A14. Chicken manure can be used as organic fertilizer or composted. Farmers should ensure that the manure is properly stored to prevent the spread of disease.

Q15. What is the difference between a layer and a broiler?
A15. Layers are poultry breeds raised for egg production, while broilers are raised for meat production.

Q16. How do I maintain proper hygiene in my poultry farm?
A16. Farmers can maintain proper hygiene in their poultry farm by regularly cleaning the poultry house, disposing of waste appropriately, and washing their hands before and after handling birds.

Q17. What are the common diseases that affect poultry birds in Kenya?
A17. Common poultry diseases in Kenya include Newcastle disease, coccidiosis, avian influenza, and infectious bronchitis.

Q18. How do I store eggs properly?
A18. Eggs should be stored in a cool and dry place at a temperature between 12°C to 16°C and away from any strong odors.

Q19. What is the recommended space requirement for each chicken in a poultry house?
A19. The recommended space requirement for each chicken in a poultry house is about 1 square foot per bird.

Q20. How can I protect my birds from predators?
A20. Farmers can protect their birds from predators by constructing a secure poultry house and installing an electric fence around the farm. They may also use guard dogs or bird netting to deter predators.