Feathers and Fortunes: Understanding the trick for Poultry Farming

Nairobi, 

Sunday, 12 January, 2025 

McCreadie Andias 

Poultry farming, is one of Kenya’s most lucrative agribusiness ventures, offering a steady income for both small-scale and large-scale farmers. 

With Kenya's growing population and increasing demand for eggs and chicken meat, poultry farming has become a reliable source of livelihood for thousands. 

But what does it take to succeed in this highly competitive field? 

Kenya’s poultry industry has shown exponential growth, driven by urbanization, changing dietary preferences, and a growing middle class. 

According to the Kenya Poultry Farmers Association (KEPOFA), the industry contributes about 30% to the livestock sector and indirectly employs over a million Kenyans. However, challenges such as disease outbreaks, fluctuating feed prices, and market competition require farmers to be well-informed to remain profitable.

The Dos of Chicken Farming

Start Small but Dream Big: Many successful poultry farmers in Kenya began with just a few chickens. “I started with 50 layers in my backyard, and now I manage a flock of over 10,000,” says Beatrice Wanjiru, a Nakuru-based farmer. Starting small allows you to learn the ropes without incurring significant losses if mistakes occur.

Invest in Proper Housing: Poultry housing is critical for maintaining the health and productivity of your chickens. The structure should be well-ventilated, spacious, and secure from predators. Experts recommend a spacing of at least 2 square feet per bird for layers and 1 square foot for broilers.

Use Quality Feeds: “What you feed your chickens determines what you’ll get,” says Dr. Peter Mwangi, a poultry nutritionist in Nairobi. Farmers should invest in high-quality, nutrient-rich feeds and avoid cutting corners with substandard products. Additionally, providing clean water at all times is essential.

Prioritize Biosecurity Measures: Disease outbreaks like Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza can wipe out an entire flock. Regular vaccinations, cleanliness, and limiting visitor access to poultry houses are vital in preventing infections. “Prevention is always cheaper than treatment,” advises Dr. Mwangi.

Keep Accurate Records: Maintaining detailed records of feed consumption, egg production, mortality rates, and sales can help you monitor your farm’s performance and make informed decisions.

The Don’ts of Chicken Farming

Don’t Overcrowd Your Birds: Overcrowding increases stress, disease transmission, and poor growth. It’s better to rear fewer birds in a healthy environment than to overcrowd your coop.

Avoid Ignoring Market Trends: “Understanding your market is as important as raising the chickens,” says Isaac Odhiambo, a poultry farmer in Kisumu. Research market demand before choosing whether to rear layers, broilers, or indigenous chicken.

Don’t Skip Training or Research: Many new farmers fail because they dive into poultry farming without adequate knowledge. Attending training sessions and consulting experienced farmers can save you from costly mistakes.

Avoid Cutting Corners on Hygiene: Dirty coops and unclean water sources are breeding grounds for diseases. Routine cleaning, disinfection, and waste management are non-negotiable for a successful farm.

Don’t Depend Solely on One Product: Diversification is key. Combining layers with broilers, or selling chicks alongside eggs, can cushion you from market shocks.

Expert Insights 

Dr. Jane Njoroge, a poultry veterinarian, highlights the importance of choosing the right breed. “Each breed has its strengths. For example, Kienyeji chickens are hardy and fetch better prices, but exotic layers and broilers offer faster returns,” she explains.

Samuel Kamau, a farmer in Kiambu, attributes his success to embracing technology. “I use mobile apps to monitor feed ratios and track egg production. It has made my farm more efficient,” he says.

Challenges in Poultry Farming

Despite its profitability, poultry farming has its challenges. Fluctuating feed prices, high cost of vaccines, and unreliable markets can deter new farmers. 

Additionally, competition from cheap imported chicken poses a threat to local farmers. “The government needs to support local farmers through subsidies and stricter regulations on imports,” says KEPOFA chairperson Mary Atieno.

A Roadmap to Success

Start with a Business Plan: A well-crafted plan detailing your budget, target market, and projected income is essential.

Network with Other Farmers: Joining cooperatives or farmer groups can give you access to shared resources, bulk purchasing, and marketing platforms.

Leverage Technology: Tools like automated feeders, egg incubators, and farm management apps can increase efficiency.

Stay Updated: The poultry industry is dynamic. Stay informed about new farming techniques, market trends, and disease outbreaks.