By Umar Nsubuga
As land becomes increasingly scarce and expensive, farmers are finding innovative ways to maximise limited space while boosting productivity.
One such groundbreaking idea is the construction of storeyed farmhouses, traditionally, animals have been housed in sprawling single-story structures, but forward-thinking farmers are now embracing vertical farming to optimise space and efficiency.
This shift not only addresses land constraints but also introduces a modern approach to animal farming that enhances productivity and profitability.
A shining example of this innovation is a unique storeyed farmhouse designed for poultry.
Professor Kant Kanyarusoke has constructed a multi-level structure for his chickens, revolutionising how farmers think about space utilisation in commercial farming.
With insights from Peter Mubiru, a seasoned veterinary expert, this approach promises a brighter future for livestock farmers, offering numerous benefits to large-scale operations.
Space and efficiency
The traditional model of livestock farming often requires expansive land, which is becoming a challenge for many. In contrast, a storeyed farmhouse offers a practical solution.
By building upwards rather than outwards, farmers can keep more animals in a smaller footprint, making this approach particularly useful for urban and peri-urban areas.
Professor Kanyarusoke’s poultry house is a prime example. Designed with precision, each floor is equipped with the necessary facilities to ensure the health and comfort of the chickens.
Proper ventilation, feeding systems, and waste management channels are integral to the design, ensuring that animal welfare is not compromised even as density increases.
According to Peter Mubiru, a seasoned veterinary expert, such innovative housing systems can significantly reduce the cost of land acquisition while allowing farmers to scale up their operations.
“A storeyed structure enables farmers to rear more animals without worrying about expanding horizontally, making it an excellent option for those with limited land,” he explains.
Benefits beyond space
Storeyed farmhouses come with a host of other advantages. One significant benefit is improved biosecurity.
In a multi-level structure, the movement of animals and humans can be more easily controlled, reducing the risk of disease outbreaks. Each floor can be designated for specific age groups or production stages, such as brooding, laying, and rearing.
“Separation of animals by floors minimizes cross-contamination,” Mubiru notes. “This is especially important for commercial farms that must adhere to strict biosecurity measures to prevent losses.”
These structures enhance waste management. With well-designed drainage and waste collection systems, manure and other byproducts can be efficiently collected and repurposed as organic fertiliser or biogas. This not only reduces environmental pollution but also adds another revenue stream for the farmer.
Cost-efficiency and productivity
While the initial investment in a storeyed farmhouse might seem steep, Mubiru argues that the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. The improved efficiency, increased production capacity, and reduced land requirements translate into higher profitability over time.
Moreover, the controlled environment of a storeyed structure allows for better regulation of temperature, light, and humidity, factors that are critical for maximising production in animals like poultry. For instance, chickens housed in such conditions are less stressed, leading to better growth rates and higher egg production.
A vision for the future
Professor Kanyarusoke’s storeyed poultry house is an inspiring model for other farmers looking to modernize their operations.
His success demonstrates that innovation in farming is not just about new technologies but also about reimagining traditional practices to meet current challenges.
Mubiru believes this concept can be adapted for other livestock, such as rabbits or pigs, further expanding its potential.
“The idea of vertical farming for animals is still in its infancy, but its potential is enormous. It’s time for commercial farmers to explore and embrace such advancements,” he urges.
