By Beatrice Nakibuuka
Uganda’s population, currently estimated at 48.96 million, relies heavily on poultry as a significant part of its economy and livelihood.
Poultry farming, dominated by chickens, is a critical component of livestock rearing, with an estimated 57 million chickens in the country as of 2017, according to Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS). Poultry farming serves multiple purposes, including meat and egg production. Depending on financial resources, farmers can undertake poultry farming on either a small or large scale, and many do so as a business venture.
As the demand for poultry products continues to grow in Uganda, layer chicken farming has emerged as a profitable enterprise. With careful management and strategic planning, farmers can enhance their profits while contributing to food security in the region.
Effective management for successful poultry farming
Proper management is essential for success in poultry farming, particularly when rearing layer chickens for egg production. Before acquiring chicks, farmers must understand flock production capabilities, plan for feed costs, anticipate the timing of egg-laying, and identify factors that influence egg production. These include the breed, management of young hens (pullets), and environmental factors like lighting, nutrition, and space.
Dr David Galiwango, a poultry veterinary specialist at Concfeed, emphasises that understanding these variables is crucial for farmers seeking maximum egg production. He notes that the breed of chicken, management before the laying period, and light management all play a significant role in determining the number of eggs produced.
Challenges in layer chicken farming
One of the most significant challenges in poultry farming is the initial investment in setting up a full-fledged poultry house. This includes the cost of materials, transportation, and other operational expenses. Additionally, diseases like coccidiosis and Newcastle disease pose a threat to entire flocks if not properly managed.
Galiwango advises farmers to select high-yielding layer breeds, such as the Hy-Line Brown or Lohmann Brown, which can produce up to 300 eggs per hen annually. These breeds are known for their resilience and high productivity.
Housing, sanitation
John Muwonge, a successful layer chicken farmer in Mukono District, highlights the importance of proper housing. Ensuring adequate ventilation, space, and sanitation in poultry houses is critical for maintaining flock health.
“Well-structured poultry houses help prevent disease outbreaks and improve the overall health of the flock,” Muwonge says.
Good management of pullets (young hens less than one year-old), particularly in terms of nutrition, lighting, and disease control, is essential. For instance, pullets should not be allowed to lay eggs before reaching the correct weight of about 1.5 kg, as premature laying can lead to prolapse, a serious health issue in hens.
The role of lighting in poultry farming
Lighting is a crucial aspect of poultry management that many farmers overlook. Light plays a significant role in poultry reproduction, growth, and behaviour. Galiwango advises farmers to provide 24-hour lighting during the first four weeks of a pullet’s life. Increasing light can hasten sexual maturity and lead to earlier egg-laying, but this should be done carefully. He warns against stimulating hens to lay eggs before they are 17 or 18 weeks old, as this can reduce their lifetime productivity.
At peak egg-laying periods, hens require 16 hours of light daily to maintain maximum production. However, too much light can lead to behavioural problems like cannibalism or egg-eating. Proper house orientation, usually east-west, can help regulate the amount of natural light in the poultry house.
Feeding and Nutrition
A balanced diet is vital for maximizing egg production. Farmers should consider formulating customised feed mixes that include grains, proteins, and essential supplements. Feeding layers a balanced diet ensures optimal egg production over time. Layers require a mix of energy, proteins, fats, minerals, and vitamins to remain productive.
Muwonge attributes his farm’s success to a focus on quality feed and biosecurity standards.
“By focusing on quality feed and maintaining high biosecurity standards, I have seen my production rates soar,” he shares.
Feed accounts for over 70 per cent of rearing costs, making it tempting for farmers to cut corners. However, feeding hens inadequately or adding unverified ingredients to commercial feeds can negatively impact egg production.
On average, a layer bird consumes about 50 kg of mash during its optimal laying life of 12 months, translating to approximately 140 grams per day. Farmers should ensure feed is not wasted through spillage or improper feeder adjustments.
Market opportunities
A tray of eggs in Uganda sells for between UGX 15,000 and UGX 25,000, making layer farming a profitable business if managed well. Farmers are encouraged to establish strong relationships with local markets, supermarkets, and restaurants to secure better pricing. Direct selling options, such as farmers’ markets or online platforms, can further maximise profits.
Layer chicken farming presents a lucrative opportunity for Ugandan farmers. By investing in high-quality breeds, adhering to best management practices, and leveraging market opportunities, farmers can enhance their profits and contribute to the country’s growing poultry industry. The future of layer chicken farming in Uganda is bright for those willing to adopt innovative farming techniques and maintain high standards of management.
