By Umar Nsubuga
Chicken farming can be a rewarding venture, but it requires careful planning, dedication, and consistent management.
Successful poultry farmers like Twaha Kakooza, who specialises in rearing local chicken, and Denis Lwanga, a dealer in chicks and poultry feed, share insights for anyone interested in getting the best out of chicken farming.
Kakooza emphasises that prospective poultry farmers shouldn’t enter the business impulsively.
“Don’t join out of excitement; prepare adequately. Chickens need constant observation from day one,” he says.
He compares caring for chickens to looking after small children without someone to monitor them, they can quickly face issues, particularly in the early stages of life.
For those with busy work schedules, Kakooza advises ensuring reliable, full-time attendants are ready to oversee operations.
This is especially important for the working class venturing into chicken farming, as proper care can directly impact the birds’ health and productivity.
Kakooza underscores that poultry farming should be approached as a real business enterprise.
One common mistake, he notes, is when farmers divert profits to other unplanned projects, neglecting the needs of their poultry operation.
“Consistency in supplies and finances is key to customer satisfaction and business growth,” he says.
For farmers raising layers, he advises managing the flock in phases bringing in a new group as one matures to maintain steady egg production and guard against sudden losses if disease breaks out.
Choose an optimal site for your poultry farm
Location is essential for a successful poultry farm. Kakooza says chickens need to be kept in open spaces near home but away from bushes to allow close supervision and protect them from predators.
He also recommends situating the farm near a water source, as chickens consume significant amounts of water daily.
“Easy access to clean water will help birds remain healthy and hydrated, especially in Uganda’s warm climate,” he says.
Maintain proper housing
Housing plays a critical role in poultry farming. Lwanga suggests well-ventilated coops to allow fresh air and prevent dampness.
“Proper ventilation helps keep diseases at bay and ensures that the chickens remain comfortable,” he says adding that the coop should have raised wooden platforms for chickens to climb on and exercise, reducing stress and keeping them engaged.
Laying boxes should be thoroughly cleaned to prevent pest infestations and diseases. Additionally, it’s crucial to restrict access to the chicken house to avoid introducing pathogens from outside, he explains.
Waste management is equally important, Lwanga says carcasses of any dead birds should be burned or buried properly to prevent contamination.
He says that farmers should also remain vigilant for potential threats like snakes, wild animals, and insects that may harm their chickens.
“Planting onions or tobacco around the coop can help repel some of these pests naturally. Avoiding excessive dust and moisture inside the coop is also critical, as such conditions encourage the growth of organisms that can cause respiratory issues in chickens,” Lwanga explains.
Ensure proper feeding and health management
As a feed dealer, Lwanga stresses the importance of quality feed for optimal growth and productivity. A balanced diet is essential, especially for layers that need nutrients to support egg production.
He explains that regular feeding schedules and using high-quality feed help maintain the chickens’ health and improve their yield. Farmers should also provide access to mineral supplements, as deficiencies can lead to weakened immunity and reduced production.
Health management is crucial in poultry farming. He says sick chickens should be isolated immediately to prevent the spread of illness, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian are beneficial for early disease detection and treatment.
He adds that carcasses should be disposed of properly, and any chickens showing signs of illness should be promptly treated.
Continuity and disease prevention
For consistent production, Kakooza recommends a phased approach to stocking chickens. By bringing in new birds in cycles, farmers can maintain a continuous supply of eggs and meat.
This method minimizes the impact of disease outbreaks by avoiding total reliance on a single batch of birds. Kakooza also advises against overcrowding, as it increases stress levels and the risk of disease spread.
Good hygiene is paramount, and Kakooza suggests thoroughly cleaning all equipment and enclosures and using biosecurity measures, such as limiting access to poultry houses, to reduce the risk of infections.
Building relationships with trusted suppliers for quality feed and chicks, like those provided by Lwanga, can also improve farm outcomes.
