By Umar Nsubuga
Poultry farming is set to thrive in 2025, fueled by growing demand for chicken meat and eggs locally and globally.
This lucrative sector presents opportunities for small-scale and commercial farmers, especially those who embrace modern practices and prioritise quality.
With the rising global need for protein, poultry farming promises significant returns for those willing to invest in innovation and sustainability.
Experts and successful practitioners in the poultry industry predict a lucrative 2025 for those willing to invest in this field.
Twaha Kakooza, a local chicken farmer from Kayunga, believes the growing awareness of healthy eating habits among consumers will fuel the demand for poultry products, including chicken meat and eggs.
“Poultry is not only affordable but also provides essential nutrients,” he explains.
The expanding middle class in Uganda has contributed to a shift in diets, with more families incorporating chicken and eggs into their meals.
Rose Sanyu, who has been in the poultry business for over a decade, emphasises the profitability of egg production.
“Eggs are a staple in many households and have a consistent demand throughout the year. With the right management, commercial egg production can yield significant returns,” she says.
Local chicken
Kakooza specialises in local chicken farming, which caters to a unique market segment.
“Local chicken is highly sought after due to its superior taste and perceived health benefits. Many people are willing to pay a premium for it,” he says.
Kakooza notes that local chicken farming requires minimal investment compared to exotic breeds but still offers impressive returns.
He advises farmers to focus on quality over quantity, as well-managed flocks fetch higher prices.
“Proper feeding and disease control are critical. Buyers are increasingly looking for healthy, organically raised chickens,” he adds.
Broiler farming for quick returns
Hassan Muwonge, a commercial broiler farmer, highlights the advantage of shorter production cycles.
“Broilers can be ready for market in six to eight weeks, allowing farmers to generate income quickly,” he explains.
Muwonge also stresses the importance of proper housing and feeding to achieve optimal growth rates.
“With proper planning and access to reliable markets, broiler farming can be a reliable source of income. However, farmers must stay updated on market trends to avoid overproduction,” he cautions.
Poultry health and management
Peter Mubiru, a veterinary doctor, underscores the importance of disease prevention in poultry farming.
“Diseases like Newcastle and coccidiosis can wipe out entire flocks if not managed properly. Farmers must invest in vaccinations and maintain strict biosecurity measures,” he advises.
Mubiru also points out the need for regular veterinary check-ups and proper feeding practices.
“A balanced diet not only ensures better growth but also improves the immunity of the birds,” he notes.
He recommends keeping detailed records of farm activities to monitor performance and identify areas for improvement.
Factors driving success in poultry farming
Market research
Kakooza advises farmers to understand their target market before venturing into poultry farming. “Knowing what your customers want will help you decide whether to focus on eggs, broilers, or local chickens,” he says.
Proper housing
Sanyu emphasises the importance of well-designed poultry houses.
“Good housing protects the birds from predators and harsh weather conditions, reducing mortality rates,” she explains.
Feed quality
According to Muwonge, feed accounts for a significant portion of poultry farming costs.
“Investing in high-quality feed is essential for achieving good growth rates and production levels,” he advises.
Disease control
Mubiru reiterates that disease control is non-negotiable. “Prevention is always cheaper than treatment. Farmers must prioritize vaccinations and maintain clean environments,” he says.
Diversification
Kakooza suggests diversifying poultry products to maximise returns. “Apart from selling meat and eggs, farmers can explore hatching chicks or producing organic manure from chicken droppings,” he says.
Challenges and solutions
While poultry farming holds great potential, it is not without challenges. Fluctuating feed prices, diseases, and market saturation are some of the hurdles farmers face.
Sanyu advises farmers to form cooperatives to negotiate better prices for feed and other inputs.
“Collective bargaining can significantly reduce costs and improve profitability,” she says.
Muwonge suggests adopting modern technologies to streamline operations.
“Automation in feeding and watering systems can save time and reduce labor costs,” he notes.
Mubiru says farmers need to stay updated on best practices and emerging trends in poultry farming. Attending workshops and seeking expert advice can make a big difference.
