By Umar Nsubuga
The demand for quality hatching eggs in Uganda is soaring as more farmers embrace commercial poultry farming.
With poultry ventures promising lucrative returns, selecting the right breeds has become a crucial decision for farmers seeking to optimise productivity.
Samuel Nyabongo, a seasoned chicken farmer, underscores the significance of tailoring chicken breed choices to specific farming objectives.
According to him, the selection process should revolve around understanding the distinct traits of layers, broilers, and dual-purpose breeds.
“The breed determines key aspects such as egg quality, fertility rates, and hatchability,” explains Nyabongo.
“For hatching eggs, it’s vital to choose robust breeds with consistent production records to ensure success,” he says.
He also emphasises the importance of aligning breed selection with Uganda’s climate and individual farming goals.
Nyabongo advises farmers to conduct thorough research, as climate-resilient breeds play a critical role in achieving sustainable poultry farming in the region.
As the poultry sector in Uganda continues to expand, insights like these are guiding farmers toward smarter decisions, ensuring higher yields and better profitability.
Providing optimal nutrition
Proper feeding is critical for producing high-quality hatching eggs.
Peter Mubiru, a veterinary doctor explains that layers need balanced diets rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Calcium is particularly vital to strengthen eggshells and improve embryo viability.
“Good nutrition affects not just egg production but also the fertility and health of the embryos,” says Mubiru.
Farmers should work with veterinary experts to create feeding plans tailored to their flock’s needs.
Managing the flock
Maintaining a healthy flock is crucial. Mubiru stresses biosecurity as a top priority, including vaccination schedules and strict hygiene protocols.
Illnesses such as Newcastle disease or avian flu can reduce egg fertility and hatchability.
“A clean environment minimises bacterial contamination of eggs and ensures better embryo development,” Mubiru explains.
Ensuring proper breeding practices
For successful hatching, Nyabongo highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy male-to-female ratio in the flock. A typical ratio is one rooster for every eight hens, ensuring sufficient mating without overburdening the roosters.
“Observe flock behaviour to ensure that all hens are mated regularly. Fertilisation directly impacts the success of hatching eggs,” he notes.
Egg collection and handling
Farmers must prioritise timely and careful egg collection. Nyabongo recommends collecting eggs at least three times a day to reduce the risk of contamination and breakage. Handling eggs gently and storing them at the correct temperature (around 15°C) preserves their viability.
“Eggs should be stored with the pointed end facing downward to maintain the integrity of the air cell, which is critical for successful hatching,” Nyabongo advises.
Maintaining incubation standards
For farmers using incubators, Mubiru stresses the importance of maintaining precise temperature (37.5°C to 38°C) and humidity levels during incubation.
Turning eggs regularly at least three times daily ensures even heat distribution and prevents the embryo from sticking to the shell.
“A malfunctioning incubator can ruin an entire batch of eggs, so regular checks are non-negotiable,” he warns.
Collaborating with experts
Both experts agree that consulting veterinary and agricultural specialists is a game-changer for commercial poultry farmers. Mubiru suggests participating in training programs to learn the latest techniques in egg handling and incubation.
“Partner with experienced poultry farmers or cooperatives to gain insights and access high-quality breeding stock,” Mubiru recommends.
Focusing on market dynamics
Beyond production, farmers should understand market trends to maximise profitability. Nyabongo notes that timing the production of hatching eggs with market demand, such as during peak poultry seasons, ensures higher prices and better returns.
“Always have a clear marketing plan to ensure the eggs reach buyers in optimal condition,” he advises.
