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The economic activity generated by poultry production is significant.
Ministry of Agriculture statistics shows that approximately 300 farmers
provided 1 million pounds of poultry meat valued at $ 4.6 million in
2006, while imports accounted for 8.7 million pounds valued at $22.8
million. Statistics for 2005 indicate 7.1 million eggs were delivered
to the domestic market at a value exceeding $4 million.
The industry engages some 1,500 persons either directly as farmers and families members, as well as workers; or indirectly through spin off business activities; including input suppliers, feed mills, hatcheries, suppliers of litter, poultry manure users and persons who market poultry products.
With only 10% of the market supplied through domestic production, the opportunities for expansion are ample since demand is constant. However, local production costs are higher than those for imported poultry; therefore prospective producers should explore market opportunities before embarking on production.
In addition to broilers, which are butchered for parts, there is a growing demand for fresh or chilled local whole chickens. Quality is a consideration, since chickens can be chilled for just two days before using or freezing.
To realise a return on investment from broiler production, $80,000 can establish a 1,600-bird operation, of which $65,000 is allocated to site preparation, watering equipment and storage tank, feeders, building construction (pens and slaughterhouse) a plucking machine and a refrigerator. The remainder is needed to purchase chicks, feed, litter and medication, as well as cover utilities and labour costs.
Not long ago, free range chickens were a common sight. Development, dogs, rats and mongoose, and a lack of interest, have caused a reduction. Stephen Lewis of Tempe started rearing yard fowl 2 years ago, “just because I like them. When you talk to them they know what you’re saying,” he said with a smile.
He has about 60 yard fowl in a range of colours that are free to scratch, getting exercise in the process and eating a wider variety of feed, from insects to plants, plus some commercial feed. Yard fowl take longer to mature and the meat is tougher but sweeter, while the eggs are tastier and brighter coloured than those in an intensive system; depending on bird health. Stephen finds some eggs (“they don’t lay where you can find them”) but doesn’t rear the birds for meat. “Someone might ask for one, but I have to be in a good mood before I say OK.” |
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