HOW TO START POULTRY FARMING IN GHANA

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation, poultry are domesticated avian species that can be raised for eggs, meat, and/or feathers. Chickens contribute 90% of the world’s poultry meat production and 93% of the world’s egg production. A report from Poultry World estimates that Ghanaians consume between 300,000 and 400,000 metric tons of poultry annually, making Ghana the second-largest consumer in West Africa, after Nigeria.

The poultry business is very lucrative in Ghana, considering the amount of eggs consumed daily. According to Statistica, in Ghana, the egg market of the Dairy products and egg market within the food market is heavily influenced by the traditional consumption of eggs in local cuisine as well as the country’s increasing urbanisation and rising disposable income.

Chicken and eggs are widely eaten in Ghanaian delicacies, and demand increases during festive seasons. Poultry farming is one of the most profitable agribusiness ventures in Ghana. This business is a profitable venture with fast turnover.

However, to start poultry farming, just like any other business, there are certain things you need to note;

Business Plan

This includes the cost involved; thus, for the structure, birds, feed, etc

Capital

The poultry business can commence on a small scale; hence, regardless of the capital, you can start. You can purchase a few dozen chickens and construct a simple poultry house. It’s important to start with your own savings and support from family and friends rather than borrowing from a financial institution. Though you can start small its important to note that the higher the capital, the higher the profit.

LOCATION

If you have the money, you can purchase a piece of land; if not, start from a safe space, it could be small, but the goal is to have something safe from predators. Location must be accessible due to the nature of the business. The space must be spacious, well-ventilated, and must not be waterlogged. You must also ensure its away from residential areas to reduce odour complaints. Usually, when the community develops, most poultry businesses are likely to move further.

TYPE OF CHICKEN

As a start-up, you have to choose the type of chicken to rear, whether a layer or a broiler. Even though you can have both, having a particular type helps you to identify your market targets, which aids sales. Secondly, since eggs are in high demand in Ghana, as per the announcement from WISHH(World Initiative for Soy in Human Health), which indicates that the per capita consumption of eggs in Ghana has climbed from 172 in 2016 to 235 in 2020, it would be prudent to include layers.

TYPE OF STRUCTURE

You can use the battery cage system or the deep litter system, which is cheaper, though the former is healthier.

EQUIPMENT

As a start-up, you need basic equipment such as feeders, heaters, laying nests, incubators, water pots, drinkers,egg trays, and the lighting and heating system, which is necessary for keeping the day-old chicks warm.

VACCINATION

Vaccination is mandatory to protect the birds from diseases such as fowl pox and Newcastle.Its mportant to work with a veterinarian.  

FEEDING

Ensure  the birds get balanced feed with enough protein,vitamins, and minerals.

For you to thrive in this business, it is important to

-Join farming groups for advice. Occassionally they have Agric extension officers visit who offer free workshops.

-Monitor the birds regularly to ensure they are healthy.

-Record keeping is key. Keep records of birds’ egg production, feeding, health, income, and expenses. These records enable you to understand your gains.

-Ensure you purchase your chicks from reliable hatcheries to avoid diseases.

Poultry business is very lucrative, and you can start on a small scale, and as the birds increase, you can invest in larger coops and systematic feeding systems. However, it has a few challenges, such as the high cost of feed and insufficient local hatcheries, but the government has intervened by introducing initiatives like the Poultry Intensification Scheme to boost local production. Wishing you all the best in your poultry business.