• benjamin

Currently, African poultry farmers are facing a range of challenges that negatively impact profitability and operations. Challenges range from inflation affecting the cost of birds, bird feeds, vaccinations and medications, etc, to weather conditions, and hike in fuel prices for African countries like Nigeria. These challenges are exacerbated by economic downtimes, making it crucial for farmers to adopt innovative strategies to overcome them and run a profitable business. Some of the prominent challenges posing a threat to poultry farmers nationwide include:

Fluctuating Market Prices:

Poultry farmers in Nigeria are currently grappling with unpredictable market prices for their products. This economic downturn has led to reduced consumer purchasing power, causing shifts in demand and affecting prices. Farmers are left with no choice but to navigate this volatility to determine the right pricing strategy that balances farm profitability and affordability for consumers. To overcome fluctuating market prices due to inflation, First, focus on cost optimization by efficiently managing your feeds, energy, and other production-related expenses. This will mean “NO ROOM FOR WASTE”. Diversifying your product offerings, such as processed poultry products or value-added items like the sale of poultry dung to food farmers, can provide stability as consumer preferences shift.

Rising Input Costs:

The costs of essential inputs like feed, medication, and equipment have been on the rise due to inflation. Farmers are battling with currency devaluation, increasing the cost of importing farm inputs and increasing the cost of preserving them. Farmers are forced to absorb these additional costs or pass them on to consumers, potentially impacting competitiveness in the market. However, one way to solve this is for farmers to proactively implement forward contracts with buyers or processors that can lock in prices, providing stability in revenue. To go about this, farmers can take advantage of Pullus\’ willingness to buy every poultry bird produced using the Pullus production cycle. With this strategy, farmers can lock in sales of farm produce in advance.

Inadequate Infrastructure:

The challenge of lack of proper infrastructure has been an age-long one, especially road networks and storage facilities, which pose significant challenges for poultry farmers. The poor transportation systems that farmers have had to deal with have led to delays in getting products like frozen chicken, eggs, etc to the market, increasing the risk of spoilage which brings about financial losses. To overcome the challenge of inadequate infrastructure, farmers can employ a range of strategies. First, establish strategic partnerships with local transportation providers to ensure timely and efficient delivery of poultry products. Second, invest in on-site processing facilities so as to reduce the need for extensive transportation and help maintain product quality. Third, adopt advanced preservation techniques, like cold storage and packaging innovations, in order to extend product shelf life, reducing the urgency of frequent transportation. Lastly, leverage Pullus’ digital platform for direct-to-consumer sales in order to minimize reliance on physical transportation and provide customers with convenient access to products

Inconsistent Power Supply:

Unreliable power supply is a pervasive issue in Nigeria. Poultry farms require constant electricity for temperature control, lighting, and equipment operation. These requirements are non-negotiable at this moment considering the low temperature due to the rainy season. Frequent power outages disrupt operations and necessitate the use of costly backup solutions like generators. Implementing energy-efficient practices such as adopting solar-powered systems for heating and ventilation can reduce reliance on fuels.

Disease Outbreaks:

Disease outbreaks are almost inevitable now. An increase in the cost of feeds and maintenance of birds coupled with the inconsistent power supply to keep the birds warm during the rainy season is a perfect recipe for disaster. This can devastate poultry farms by causing mass mortality and reduced production. Flu and other diseases pose a constant threat to the industry during times when we experience lower temperatures. Provide a balanced and nutrient-rich diet to boost the birds\’ immune systems. Regular health monitoring, vaccination, and partnering with veterinarians for timely intervention are essential during these times.

Inefficient Value Chain:

The poultry value chain in Nigeria is often characterized by inefficiencies and gaps. These challenges, including inadequate processing and distribution facilities, can lead to post-harvest losses and higher operational costs for farmers. One proactive move that farmers can adopt is to take advantage of the Pullus\’ access to a large, already existing market. Post-harvest losses are avoidable when there’s an already existing consumer market.

Policy Inconsistencies:

Fluctuating government policies and regulations have created uncertainty for poultry farmers. Changes in import/export regulations, removal of subsidies, and taxes have impacted the overall business environment and profitability. Implementing energy-efficient practices such as adopting solar-powered systems for heating and ventilation can reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Thriving amidst uncertainty requires more than just survival—it demands innovation, strategic thinking, and a deep-rooted passion for the craft. It\’s evident that success isn\’t solely about weathering storms; It\’s about harnessing the winds of change to steer your poultry enterprise toward new horizons. By embracing diversification, optimizing operations, leveraging technology, and fostering community connections, you are well-equipped to not only endure economic hardships but also emerge stronger, more agile, and prepared to seize opportunities that lie ahead. Remember, tough times unveil the true essence of a poultry farmer—the spirit of perseverance that fuels growth and nourishes both your business and the communities you serve.