layers chicken business plan in kenya

December 1, 2023
in Agribusiness , Poultry
By Florence Ngaru

Have you been wondering what agribusiness initiative you can embark on in the coming year? You might want to consider farming layers. If you have no clue, this article will equip you with a guide on how to get started, stay afloat and make profit. Starting a layers farm can be very rewarding with proper planning and management. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary steps in starting a chicken layers farm in Kenya.

Step 1: Preparing, exploration and investigation First and foremost, before doing anything else, it is important that you embark on thorough research. This entails understanding different chicken breeds that are suitable for egg production, local regulations on poultry farming so as to abide by them and the housing requirements. When planning, you need to formulate a business plan for how to go about it from planning to optimization. Decide on the number of chicken you would like to have on your farm laying to your desired amount of eggs and also assess the demand for eggs in your area.

Step 2: Financial Planning Preparing a budget is crucial as it allows for helping shape a roadmap for production before actual implementation and forecast outcomes. It also makes it easier for you to identify hidden costs that might have been otherwise overlooked until it’s too late as well as understand the cost of production. By documenting your plans, you can later reflect upon your expenditure and see where you may have underestimated or overspent.

Breakdown of costs:

Cost of 200 Chicks : Purchasing 200 chicks at 130/= each amounts to KSH 26,000.
Equipment Costs: • 6 drinkers @450 = 2,700 KSH • 6 chick feeders @150 = 900 KSH • 6 round feeders @450 = 2,700 KSH • 1 Infrared bulb @750 • 1 brooding jiko @1,500 • 5 bags of wood shavings @200 = 1,000 KSH • 500mls Norocleanse disinfectant @450 Total: 10,000 KSH
Feeding Costs: • Chick Mash (Day 1-8 wks): 8 bags of 50kg chick mash at 3,000 KSH per bag totaling 24,000 KSH. • Growers Mash (9 wks-20 wks): 28 bags at 2,600 KSH per bag amounting to 72,800 KSH. Total Feeding Costs: 96,800 KSH
Vaccination Costs: Including various vaccinations and labor costs, summing up to 6,200 KSH.
Grand Total (Before Miscellaneous): • Chicks: 26,000 KSH • Equipment: 10,000 KSH • Feeds: 96,800 KSH • Vaccines: 6,200 KSH Grand Total: 139,000 KSH
Miscellaneous (10%): 13,900 KSH Final Total: 153,000 KSH

Without knowing your cost of production it is impossible to estimate the price that you will need to charge for your product (eggs). Profitability is not guaranteed just because you sell your eggs for the same price as the other farmers. Take into account all the costs by noting them down thus providing clarity on the expenses involved in starting and managing the poultry enterprise, ensuring that you are financially prepared and also make informed decisions.

Step 3: Setting up farm structures You will need to set up suitable housing for your chickens to start. Ensure that you provide adequate space that is well ventilated with natural lighting. You will also need to construct perches and nesting boxes additionally building a secure fence to protect your flock from predators.

If possible, consider installing a CCTV system in case you live in a high-risk area where your chickens are susceptible to being stolen. This is not always necessary especially if you have a perimeter wall but in case of previous encounters with thieves, it would add more security and dissuade further attempts which will result in severe losses as they disrupt the budget.

Step 4: Procuring Quality layer chicks At this point, your home is ready to welcome home your new friends. Now you need to get your chicks from a reputable hatchery. Consider one with quality chicks which have good genetics and desirable traits. Ones with a high potential for laying eggs e.g. Leghorns, Sussex and Rhode Island Reds.

Step 5: Feed Management and feeding pattern Diet is important as it impacts growth and egg production. Feeding techniques and feed management will help you provide the right amount of nutrients at the right time. Also ensure that the feeding structures are installed properly as this can have a significant impact on how much time it will take to feed the birds and whether they consume enough nutrients to stay healthy. Experts recommend that you consider the natural feeding pattern advising that 60% of the food be provided in the morning with the minority fed in the morning.

Step 6: Water Management As they say, water is life! Your chicken need access to clean water. On average, laying hens consume 230-300 ml of water per day. The rule of thumb is water intake is approximately twice the feed intake. Water consumption is also influenced by the physiological stage of egg formation. Several farmers reported that water consumption peaked immediately following the laying of the egg and stayed relatively high for another 12 hours finally dropping afterwards.

Step 7: Protecting your poultry from infectious diseases Identify prevalent diseases in your area and also invite a vet over to consult them on vaccinations. Provide a healthy environment by allowing enough floor space and shade, cleaning the equipment routinely, suitable vaccination, parasite control, limiting contact with other humans and animals and keeping age-groups separate.

Step 8: Planning on egg collection and where to store them Come up with a routine to collect your eggs at least twice daily. They should be handled with care to prevent unnecessary loses resulting from broken eggs or eggs going bad due to being stored in damp areas. Put out clean nesting material to encourage laying eggs in designated boxes and also store your eggs in cool dry places

Step 9: Tracking and Observing Track the production of your eggs, monitor the health of the chickens regularly and take note of any abnormalities. Keep a detailed record of body conditions, behaviors and egg counts.

In conclusion, you should try and visit an experienced farmer with layers to get a more in-depth and live account of this venture and understand the challenges that come with poultry farming, how to mitigate them. Also, do keep up with trends emerging in the industry, new innovations and methods to increase profitability while maintaining healthy and productive practices. I hope that this article plays a pivotal role in inspiring your journey into layers farming and I wish you success!

Poultry Farming In Kenya: Business Plan For Beginners

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Poultry farming in Kenya is playing an important role in the total economy and fulfilling the nutrition demand in Kenya . Reports shows that some people are becoming billionaires by commercial poultry farming in Kenya.

Most of the farmers of Kenya raise egg laying or broiler chicken. Raising some other domestic birds can also be seen in Kenya.

Among the poultry birds, quail farming is becoming popular day by day. Some people raise poultry for family consumption and most of the farmers raise poultry commercial for profit.

Poultry egg consuming rate is relatively high than meat consumption in Kenya. Schools, hotels and homes are the biggest market for poultry eggs in Kenya. In case of meat, hotels are the major customer of chicken meat.

Table of Contents

Importance of Poultry Farming in Kenya

Poultry farming is a very important business in Kenya for several reasons. It provides a good source of nutritious food (like eggs and meat ). Both eggs and meat are are essential for human health. Commercial poultry farming business can creates job opportunities for many people (especially in rural areas where employment can be scarce).

Poultry production business also contributes to the country’s economy by generating income (through the sale of poultry products). This business can help to improve food security in the country. Actually, poultry farming business plays a very important role in Kenya’s agriculture sector and in improving the livelihoods of many people.

How to Start Poultry Farming in Kenya

You can start poultry farming in Kenya by keeping in mind both local and international market. If you don’t want to spend money in buying poultry products then you can go with small scale poultry farming in Kenya.

But for commercial production you have to focus on the marketing of your products. You can target large hotels, companies and also exporting to foreign countries for marketing your products.

poultry farming, poultry farming business, commercial poultry farming, commercial poultry farming business, chicken rearing in Kenya, poultry keeping in Kenya, poultry business, layer farming Kenya, broiler farming Kenya

Step 1: Learn Practically

First of all, try to learn more about this business practically from any existing poultry farmer or breeder. Having practical knowledge is very important in this business. Visit as many farms as you can in your area to learn more about this business.

Step 2: Complete a Training

Completing a poultry farming training is also very important, especially if you are a beginner. Try to complete a training from your any organization in your area. Some agricultural colleges and universities also provide training about this business.

Step 3: Make A Business Plan

Making a good and effective business plan is also very important for starting and operating this business successfully. Make a good business plan before starting and try to work according to the plan. Include everything from starting to marketing in your business plan. Ask for help from an expert if you are a beginner.

Step 4: Select a Good Location

Selecting a very good location is very important for commercial poultry farming business in Kenya. Try to select the location far from residential area. Ensure good communication system is available in the selected land.

Step 5: Determine Your Farming Method

Poultry farming in Kenya can be done by using two methods and those are organic and inorganic. Both organic and inorganic methods are used for commercial poultry farming in Kenya.

There is a high competition between this two types of poultry farmers. There are some poultry products buying companies in Kenya that are not accepting inorganic poultry products (meat and eggs).

Some health conscious people are rejecting all types of inorganic foods including poultry eggs and meat. This is resulting a little drop in inorganic poultry farming in Kenya (not greatly).

Step 6: Choose The Right Breed

In Kenya, broiler and layer poultry are used for commercial meat and egg production. There are numerous world famous meat and egg producing poultry breeds available.

Select proper breeds according to your desired production. For commercial egg production choose highly productive layer breeds which are suitable for farming in Kenyan environment.

In case of meat production select highly meat producing broiler poultry breeds. You can visit your nearest poultry farming or training center for getting some information about suitable breeds for commercial poultry farming in Kenya.

Step 7: Purchase Equipment

You will need to purchase some equipment for operating a successful poultry farming business. Read more about poultry equipment .

Step 8: Purchase Chicks

Purchase chicks from your local or nearest breeders or suppliers. Always try to purchase good quality, healthy and active birds for your farm. You can ask for help from an expert if you don’t have enough experience.

Step 9: Ensure Good Housing System

Good designed and well facilitated poultry housing is a must for commercial poultry farming in Kenya. Housing system and design depends on the farming system and chosen poultry breeds.

But follow some instructions while building house for all types of poultry breeds. Proper ventilation system is very urgent. This keeps the birds healthy and productive.

Make sure that your poultry house is well ventilated. Keep proper facilities for entrancing sufficient amount of fresh air and light inside the house.

If you want to start large scale poultry farming , then making numerous houses will be effective. Keep about 40 feet distance from one house to another house while making numerous houses.

Always clean the house perfectly before bringing the chicks inside the farm. Clear the litter on a regular basis.

Wooden or rice bran can be used for making litter for the poultry birds. Keep all the poultry equipment clean and germ free. Clean all equipment on regular basis.

Poultry housing
Broiler poultry housing
Layer poultry housing
How to build a poultry house .

Step 10: Provide Nutritious Feeding

Feeding good quality nutritious food keeps the poultry birds healthy and productive. High quality fresh foods with availability of all types of nutrient ingredients is the key to success in commercial poultry farming business.

Poultry feed
Broiler poultry feed
Layer poultry feed

Along with providing good quality foods serve them sufficient amount of fresh and clean water according to their demand.

Step 11: Proper Breeding Management is Important

Proper breeding is important if you want to produce fertilized eggs. Most of the poultry birds are naturally very good breeders. They will breed easily if you keep good ratio of male and female birds in your flock.

Step 12: Care and Management

Always take good care of your poultry. Vaccinate timely to keep them free from all types of poultry diseases . Keep your farm free from other harmful animals and prevent all types of predators.

Step 13: Marketing

There is already a ready market available for marketing your poultry products. Small scale farmers can easily sell their products in local market.

And large scale poultry farmer can try to sell their products in large hotels, companies or in international market.

Poultry farming has a great contribution to the economy and food demand of Kenya. The main benefits of commercial poultry farming in Kenya is that, diseases are less in poultry and as a result we don’t have to import poultry products from foreign country. Along with gaining profit from commercial poultry farming in Kenya we have to ensure the availability of required food demand. Hope this guide has helped you. Good luck and may God bless you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

People ask many questions about poultry farming in Kenya. Here we are trying to list the most common questions about starting and operating poultry farming in Kenya, and trying to answer them. Hope you will find your answer. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.

Is poultry farming profitable in Kenya?

Yes, sure! Poultry farming is a very lucrative business in Kenya and many people are doing this business for making money.

How much does it cost to start a poultry farm in Kenya?

Starting a small to medium sized poultry farms will cost you approximately Ksh 3000 to Ksh 25000 depending on the number of birds.

What is the main problem facing poultry farming in Kenya?

Large numbers of poultry die when there is an outbreak of disease like chicken flu is the main problem of poultry farming in Kenya.

How can I succeed in poultry farming in Kenya?

You can make good profits from poultry farming business through proper care and management.

How long do broilers take to mature in Kenya?

Broiler chickens generally take around 35-42 days to reach marketing size when they reach around 1.75 kg live body weight.

How much does it cost to build a chicken house in Kenya?

Depends on the number of birds you want to raise.

Which chicken breed is best for eggs in Kenya?

Kuroiler chickens are considered best chicken breed in Kenya. It is a dual purpose breed which is good for both meat and eggs production purpose.

How do I sell my chicken in Kenya?

You can target selling your chickens directly in the market.

How much does chicken feed cost in Kenya?

Cost of chicken feed can vary from Ksh 2,500 to Ksh 4,500 depending on the type of feed.

How much is a kilo of chicken in Kenya?

A kilo of chicken will cost around Ksh 510.26 per kg.

How much is a crate of eggs in Kenya?

A crate of eggs will cost Ksh 360 in Kenya.

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3 thoughts on “poultry farming in kenya: business plan for beginners”.

Information very useful

Thanks for your honest opinion! Good luck!

This is so informative thank you.

What is Poultry Farming?

Poultry farming involves raising domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, or geese for various purposes like meat (broilers) or egg production (layers). The poultry sector plays a significant role in Kenya’s agricultural economy due to its high demand locally and internationally. It offers numerous employment opportunities and contributes to food security.

Types of Poultry Farming in Kenya

Broiler farming.

Broilers are chickens that are bred primarily for their meat. This type of poultry farm focuses on raising chickens from day-old chicks into fully grown birds within a relatively short period. Broiler chicken production offers one of the quickest returns on investment compared to other forms of poultry farming.

To run a successful broiler farm, it is important to provide optimal growth conditions such as proper housing, nutrition, and health management. The adoption of modern farming techniques and improved breeds is also critical for high productivity.

Layer Farming

Layer farming involves raising chickens specifically for egg production. The layers are capable of producing eggs throughout their productive life, which usually lasts for about a year. Layers require a different management approach compared to broilers since their purpose is egg production rather than meat.

A layer farm should have well-designed housing facilities with adequate ventilation and lighting to stimulate egg production. Optimal nutrition, disease prevention measures, and proper waste management are important considerations in layer farming.

Chicken Rearing for Meat and Eggs (Kuku Kienyeji)

Many poultry farmers in Kenya engage in dual-purpose chicken rearing, where they raise chickens that can be used for both meat and egg production. This type of poultry farming allows farmers to diversify their income streams and cater to different market demands.

To succeed in dual-purpose chicken rearing, farmers need to carefully select appropriate breed combinations that can provide the desired outcomes — good meat quality and reasonable egg production. Proper housing, hygiene, feeding, and disease control are key factors in running a successful dual-purpose chicken farm.

Key Considerations for Starting a Poultry Farm

Before venturing into the poultry farming business in Kenya, several key factors need to be considered:

Location and Infrastructure

Choosing the right location for your poultry farm is crucial. Accessibility to markets, availability of utilities like water and electricity, as well as proximity to suppliers of inputs such as feed and vaccines, are all important considerations. Additionally, the site should have sufficient space for the construction of at least well-designed poultry houses that provide proper ventilation and protection from predators.

Breeds of Chickens

Selecting the right breed(s) is vital for the success of your poultry farm. The choice will depend on your target market (meat or eggs), prevailing environmental conditions (such as temperature), disease resistance characteristics of the breed, as well as availability of day-old chicks from reputable hatcheries.

Some popular chicken breeds suitable for meat production in Kenya include Kuroiler , Kari improved kienyeji, and Rainbow Rooster . For egg production, the commonly used breeds are KARI layer, Lohmann Brown Classic, and ISA Brown.

Feeding and Nutrition

A balanced diet is essential for the optimal growth and productivity of your poultry. Poultry feeds should contain the right proportions of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to meet the nutritional needs of the birds at each growth stage. It is advisable to consult a qualified poultry nutritionist or seek advice from reputable feed suppliers to ensure you are providing the best possible diet for your birds.

For small-scale farmers who prefer formulating their own feeds, it is important to understand the nutritional requirements of different bird categories (i.e., growers, layers) and use appropriate ingredients in their homemade feed formulations.

Disease Control and Biosecurity Measures

Disease management is critical in poultry farming as disease outbreaks can lead to significant losses. Implementing effective biosecurity measures can help prevent the introduction and spread of diseases on your farm. These measures involve controlling access to your farm by visitors or unauthorized personnel, regular disinfection procedures (foot dips), vaccination programs, isolation of sick birds or those showing signs of illness, regular deworming routines among others.

It is advisable to work closely with a veterinarian who can provide guidance on disease prevention measures specific to your geographical location and local disease prevalence.

Market Opportunities in the Poultry Sector

The poultry sector offers lucrative market opportunities both locally and internationally. The high demand for poultry products ensures a constant market throughout the year. Here are some potential market opportunities:

Local consumers: There is a growing demand for chicken meat and eggs among Kenyan consumers due to population growth and changing dietary habits.
Hotels & Restaurants: Establishments such as hotels and restaurants require a steady supply of poultry products for their kitchens.
Supermarkets & Retailers: The increasing number of supermarkets and retail outlets provides a substantial market for poultry products.
Export Markets: Kenya has access to regional export markets such as the East African Community (EAC) countries, as well as international markets such as the Middle East and Europe.

To tap into these market opportunities, it is crucial to produce high-quality poultry products that meet consumer preferences and adhere to food safety standards and certifications.

Challenges in Poultry Farming

While poultry farming offers immense potential for profitability, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Some of the common challenges faced by poultry farmers in Kenya include:

Disease outbreaks: Poultry farms are susceptible to various diseases which can lead to significant financial losses if not properly managed. Avian influenza, Newcastle disease, and coccidiosis are some examples of diseases that can devastate a flock.
High input costs: Feed accounts for a significant portion of the operating expenses in poultry farming. Fluctuations in feed prices can affect the profitability of your business.
Market competition: The poultry sector in Kenya is highly competitive due to high demand. Farmers need to differentiate their products through quality, pricing, or value-added services to remain competitive.
Access to finance: Securing financing for starting or expanding your poultry farm can be challenging due to the perceived risks associated with agribusiness ventures.
Lack of technical knowledge: Inadequate knowledge about modern best practices in poultry farming can hinder success and lead to poor productivity.

Despite these challenges, it is possible to overcome them through proper planning, continuous learning, and implementation of proven strategies.

Also Read: Pig Farming Business in Kenya – A Lucrative Opportunity for Entrepreneurs

Tips for Success in Poultry Farming

To succeed in the poultry farming business in Kenya, consider implementing the following tips:

Conduct thorough market research: Understand the prevailing market dynamics including demand trends, consumer preferences, and existing competitors.
Develop a solid business plan: A well-drafted business plan will guide your operations, financial projections, and market entry strategies.
Seek professional training and mentorship: Attend workshops, and seminars, or seek mentorship from experienced poultry farmers to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Embrace technology and modern farming practices: Adopting technological innovations such as automated feeding systems, improved breeds, biosecurity measures, and record-keeping software can significantly improve your farm’s efficiency and productivity.
Build relationships with other stakeholders: Establish partnerships with suppliers of quality inputs such as feed manufacturers and hatcheries to ensure a reliable supply chain.
Comply with relevant regulations: Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements for operating a poultry farm in Kenya. This includes obtaining necessary licenses and adhering to food safety standards.

A 1000 layers poultry farm in Kenya

Starting a 1000-layer poultry farm in Kenya can be a lucrative business venture, but it requires careful planning and management to be successful. Here are some steps to follow when setting up a 1000-layer poultry farm in Kenya:

Conduct market research: It is important to understand the demand for eggs in your area and the competition you will face. Conduct market research to determine the size of the market and the types of eggs that are in demand.
Develop a business plan: A business plan will help you define your business goals, identify your target market, and outline the steps you will take to achieve your objectives. It will also help you secure financing if you need it.
Obtain necessary licenses and permits: In Kenya, you will need to obtain a business license and a permit to operate a poultry farm. You may also need to register with the Kenya Bureau of Standards if you plan to sell your eggs commercially.
Choose a location: Choose a location for your poultry farm that is easily accessible to your target market and has access to electricity, water, and transportation.
Build the infrastructure: You will need to build the infrastructure for your poultry farm, including housing for the chickens, feed and water stations, and a processing area. You will also need to consider the layout and design of the farm to ensure the chickens have access to fresh air and sunlight.
Purchase equipment: You will need to purchase equipment to feed and water the chickens and collect and store the eggs. This may include feeders, waterers, egg crates, and refrigeration equipment.
Source chicks: Determine the type of chicks you will need for your farm and source them from a reliable supplier. You may need to purchase layers, pullets, or point-of-lay hens depending on your business model.
Implement a management plan: Develop a management plan to ensure the smooth operation of your poultry farm. This may include a feeding and watering schedule, a cleaning and sanitation plan, and a schedule for collecting and storing eggs.

By following these steps, you can set up a successful 1000-layer poultry farm in Kenya.

6 thoughts on “A 1000 layers poultry farm in Kenya”

I would like to have a complete structure for 1000 layers light breed . Advise where to get contact with cages

We have the cages. call us on 0727087285

Very inspiring, I wonna give it a trial from December, 2018

wow interesting

I’m looking for pullets, from 10weeks age

HI Mainga, we currently do not have chicken.

Layer Farming Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Agriculture Industry » Livestock Farming » Poultry » Poultry Business Plan

Are you about starting a layer farming business? If YES, here’s a complete sample layer farming business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to raise money .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a layer farming business. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample layer farming marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for layer farms. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

There are loads of business opportunities in the poultry industry and layer farming is one of them. Layers are chickens that are specifically raised for the purpose of laying eggs – commercial egg production.

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Layer poultry farming means raising egg laying poultry birds for the purpose of commercial egg production. Layer chickens are a special species of hen which need to be raised from when they are one day old. They start laying eggs commercially from 18-19 weeks of age.

Layer poultry farming is a profitable business that has evolved from small scale into a global industry in most countries where it is carried out.

Countries like Nigeria , United Kingdom, Brazil, Greece, Philippines, China, Japan, Thailand, Caribbean countries and even South American Countries have been farming layer chicken on a large scale for a long time. united states isn’t far from the trade as there are lots of people who are making huge fortune from farming layer chicken alone.

It is important to state that starting a layer poultry farming business comes with its own fair share of challenges, but that does not rule out the fact that it is indeed a profitable business venture. An aspiring entrepreneur can either choose to start a layer poultry farm on a small scale or on a large scale depending on their financial status.

Below is a sample layer poultry farming business plan template that can help you to successfully write your own with little or no difficulty.

A Sample Layer Farming Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The agricultural industry of which poultry farming and egg production is a subset of is no doubt among the leading industry in most countries of the world; it is the industry that produces chicken and eggs for the populace.

Because of the significant role the agriculture sector plays, the government of most countries ensures that they go all the way to subsidize seedlings, fertilizers, farm implements and machinery for farmers and also encourage entrepreneurs to go into commercial farming (poultry farming inclusive).

Hens, various birds, quails, guinea fowls, ducks et al are all birds that can be comfortably reared in a poultry. Chicken and birds are widely consumed in all parts of the world hence there is a large market for poultry farmers. If you are looking towards starting a livestock breeding business, then one of your options is to settle for poultry farming. Poultry farming is a highly thriving and profitable business venture.

Asides from the fact that people consume birds and chicken, supply of eggs is also a major source of revenue generation for poultry farmers. Players in the poultry farming and egg production industry basically raise chicken for meat and egg production. The eggs produced may be sold for use as table eggs or hatching eggs.

The Poultry Farm and Egg Production Company Industry that layer poultry farming business is a part of is indeed a very large industry and pretty much thriving in all parts of the world especially in developed countries such as United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia and Italy et al.

Statistics has it that in the United States of America alone, there are about 30,000 licensed and registered poultry farm and egg production companies directly responsible for employing about 280,800 employees and indirectly responsible for employing roughly 1,339,900 people.

The industry rakes in a whooping sum of $10 billion annually with an annual growth rate projected at 6.1 percent. It is important to state that establishments with a lion share of the available market in this industry are Cal – Maine, Land O’Lake, Inc., Michael Foods and Rose Acres Farms.

Statistics also has it that an estimate of about 35 companies are involved in the business of raising, processing and marketing chickens on a commercial level; they export chicken and eggs to other countries of the world. It is on record that Americans consume more chicken than anyone else in the world.

So also, in 2015, almost 9 billion layer chickens, weighing 53 billion pounds, live – weight, were produced. More than 40 billion pounds of chicken product was marketed and measured on a ready-to-cook basis. If you are looking towards leveraging on the agriculture industry to generate huge income, then one of your best bet is to start a layer poultry farm and egg production business.

One thing is certain about starting layer poultry farming and egg production business, if you are able to conduct your market research and feasibility studies, you are more likely not going to struggle to sell your eggs and chickens because there are always food processing companies and consumers out there who are ready to buy from you.

2. Executive Summary

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a world – class poultry farm company with strong bias for rearing layer chickens. Our poultry farm will be based in the outskirt of Houston, Texas – United States. We have done a detailed market research and feasibility studies and we were able to secure hundred hectares of land to start our layer poultry farm and egg production business.

Our layer poultry farm is going to be a standard commercial poultry farm, so will be involved in raising layers for egg production on a commercial level; we will export live layers – chickens and eggs, to other countries of the world. We are in the commercial layer poultry farming and egg production line of business because we want to leverage on the vast opportunities available in the agriculture industry to contribute our quota in growing the U.S. economy.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is well positioned to become one of the leading commercial layer poultry farms in the United States of America, which is why we have been able to source for the best hands and machines to run the company.

We have put processes and strategies in place that will help us employ best practices when it comes to commercial poultry farms and egg production as required by the regulating bodies in the United States of America. At Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC, our customer’s best interest will always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a private registered commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that is owned by Mrs. Grace Milton and her immediate family members. The layer poultry farm will be fully and singlehandedly financed by the owner – Mrs. Grace and her immediate family members at least for a period of time.

Before starting Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC, Mrs. Grace Milton has gathered robust experience working for some of the top brands in the poultry farms industry in the United States of America. She is of course well experienced and highly qualified to run this type of business.

3. Our Products and Services

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a standard commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that is committed to raising chicken (layers) for both the United States’ market and the global market. We are in the commercial layer poultry farms and egg production line of business to make profits and we are going to do all we can to achieve our business goals, aim and objectives.

These are the areas we will concentrate on in our commercial layer poultry farms. If need arises we will definitely add more poultry produce to our list;

Raising, processing and marketing chickens on a commercial level; we export chickens, processed chickens and eggs to other countries of the world
Table eggs produced by battery chickens (white)
Table eggs produced by battery chickens (brown)
Hatching eggs
Specialty eggs
Table eggs produced by free-range chickens

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

Our Vision is to become one of the leading commercial layer poultry farm and egg production brands not just in the United States of America but also on a global stage.
Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a world class and registered commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that is committed to raising layers – chickens, and producing eggs for both the United States’ market and the global market. We want our chickens and eggs to flood the nooks and crannies of the United States and other countries of the world.

Our Business Structure

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a privately owned and managed commercial layer poultry farms and egg production business that intends starting small in Houston – Texas, but hope to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading commercial poultry farms and egg production companies in the industry both in the United States and on a global stage.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operation.

At Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, result driven, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stakeholders (the owners, workforce and customers).

As a matter of fact, a profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

Chief Operating Officer

General Poultry Farm Manager

Human Resources and Admin Manager

Accountant/Cashier

Sales and Marketing Executive
Field Employees
Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities
Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy
Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
Responsible for providing direction for the business
Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
Evaluates the success of the organization
Responsible for the planning, management and coordinating all farm activities across the various sections on behalf of the organization
Supervise other section managers
Ensure compliance during project executions
Providing advice on the management of farming activities across all section
Responsible for carrying out risk assessment
Using IT systems and software to keep track of people and progress of the growth of chickens and other birds
Responsible for overseeing the accounting, costing and sale of poultry farm produce
Represent the organization’s interest at various stakeholders’ meetings
Ensures that layer poultry farming goals desired result are achieved, the most efficient resources (manpower, equipment, tools and chemicals et al) are utilized and different interests involved are satisfied. Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations
Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
Carrying out staff induction for new team members
Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
Oversee the smooth running of the daily office
Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions
Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis
Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties
Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
Responsible for administering payrolls
Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
Handles all financial transactions for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC
Serves as internal auditor for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC.

Sales and Marketing Manager

Manage external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
Model demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customers
Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects
Write winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
Develop, execute and evaluate new plans for increasing sales
Create new markets cum businesses for the organization
Empower and motivate the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets

Field Workers/Contract Staff

Responsible for daily collection of eggs
Responsible for feeding chickens and other birds as instructed by the supervisor
Responsible for cleaning poultry and the entire environment
Change the water for the birds as instructed by the supervisor on a regular basis
Handles poultry farm implements and machines (hatchery) as instructed by the section manager/supervisor
Assist in handling the chicken and other birds et al
Carries out task in line with the stated job description
Assist in transport working tools and equipment from the poultry farm and back to the designated store room
Handles any other duties as assigned by the line manager

Front Desk/Customer’s Service Officer

Welcomes clients and potential clients by greeting them in person, online or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
Manages administrative duties assigned by the creative director in an effective and timely manner
Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC do not intend to launch out with trial and error hence the need to conduct a proper SWOT analysis.

We know that if we get it right from the onset, we would have succeeded in creating the foundation that will help us build a standard commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that will favorably compete with leading commercial layer poultry farms and egg production companies like Cal – Maine, Land O’Lake, Inc., Michael Foods and Rose Acres Farms in the United States of America and in other parts of the world.

We engaged the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company that can favorably compete in the highly competitive commercial poultry farms and egg production industry in the United States and the world at large.

Part of what the team of business consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a SWOT analysis for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC. Here is a summary of the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC;

Our strength as a commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company is the fact that we have healthy relationships with loads of major players (agriculture merchants) in the industry; both suppliers of poultry feeds and medications and buyers of live layers (chickens) and eggs within and outside of the United States of America.

We have some of the latest commercial poultry farming hatchery, tools and equipment that will help us raise and produce eggs in commercial quantities with less stress. Aside from our relationship (network) and equipment, we can confidently boast that we have some the most experienced hands in Houston – Texas on our payroll.

Our weakness could be that we are a new commercial poultry farm and egg production company in the United States, and perhaps it might take us sometime to attract big time customers in the industry. We are aware of this and from our projection will overcome this weakness with time and turn it to a major advantage for the business.

Opportunities:

The opportunities that are available to us as a standard commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company cannot be quantified. We know that there are loads of households and businesses such as grocery stores, hotels and fast food restaurants that can’t do without a daily supply of live chicken and eggs. We are well positioned to take advantage of this opportunity.

Some of the threats and challenges that we are likely going to face when we start our commercial layer poultry farm and egg production company are global economic downturn that can impact negatively on household spending, bad weather cum natural disasters (draughts, epidemics), unfavorable government policies and the arrival of a competitor (a commercial farm that engage in the rearing of chickens and other birds) within same location.

There is hardly anything you can do as regards these threats and challenges other than to be optimistic that things will continue to work for your good.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

Market Trends

The Poultry and Chicken Egg Production industry has greatly benefited from campaigns advertising the health benefits of chickens and eggs as a good source of protein. No doubt, the increased demand of chicken and eggs from households and food related businesses and of course the growing popularity of specialty and processed eggs have rapidly improved revenue growth for the industry.

In the face of this growth, profit margin has suffered from rising feed costs and also regulations regarding animal welfare. As a matter of fact, one of the new trends is that with the recent advancement in technology, poultry farmers can now comfortably predict and produce large quantities of chickens/birds and eggs per time.

8. Our Target Market

Indeed, the target market of those who are the end consumer of commercial poultry farm produce and also those who benefits from the business value chain of the poultry farming and egg production industry is all encompassing; it is far–reaching.

Every household consumes produce from commercial poultry farms be it chicken or egg. So also, almost all hotels and fast restaurants sell meals made from chicken and eggs. In essence a commercial poultry farmer cum layer farmer should be able to sell his or her chickens and eggs to as many people as possible.

In view of that, we have positioned our business to attract consumers of chicken and eggs not just in the United States of America alone but in other parts of the world. We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that we meet and surpass the expectations we set for the business. Below is a list of the people and business that we will market our live chickens and eggs to;

Individuals
Restaurants
Fast food eateries
Grocery stores
Agriculture merchants

Our competitive advantage

It is easier to find entrepreneur flocking towards an industry that is known to generate consistent income which is why there are more commercial poultry farmers in the United States of America and of course in most parts of the world.

Statistics has it that there are 2.2 million farms in the United States of America, covering an area of 922 million acres. These goes to show that there are an appreciable number of farmers in the United States of America but that does not mean that there is stiff competition in the industry.

As a matter of fact, entrepreneurs are encouraged by the government to embrace commercial farming cum poultry farming and egg production. This is because part of the success of any nation is her ability to cultivate her own food and also export food to other nations of the world.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is fully aware that there are competitions when it comes to selling live layers and eggs all over the globe, which is why we decided to carry out thorough market research so as to know how to take advantage of the available market in the United States and in other parts of the world.

We have done our homework and we have been able to highlight some factors that will give us competitive advantage in the marketplace; some of the factors are effective and reliable layer poultry farming and egg production processes that can help us sell our produce at competitive prices, good network and excellent relationship management.

Another competitive advantage that we are bringing to the industry is the fact that we have healthy relationship with loads of major players (agriculture merchants) in the industry; both suppliers of poultry feed, medications, buyers of live chickens and eggs within and outside of the United States of America.

We have some of the latest commercial poultry farming hatchery, tools and equipment that will help us raise layers and produce eggs in commercial quantities with less stress. Aside from our relationship (network) and equipment, we can confidently boast that we have some the most experienced hands in Houston – Texas in our payroll.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups commercial poultry farms and egg production companies in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

Sources of Income

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is in the poultry farms and egg production line of business for the purpose of maximizing profit hence we have decided to explore all the available opportunities within the industry to achieve our corporate goals and objectives. Below are the sources we intend exploring to generate income for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC;

10. Sales Forecast

From the survey conducted, we were able to discover that the sales generated by a commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business depends on the size of the poultry farm, the types of birds available in the poultry and of course the size of their marketing network.

We have perfected our sales and marketing strategies and we are quite optimistic that we will meet or even surpass our set sales target of generating enough income/profits from the first year of operation, and build the business from survival to sustainability within the shortest period of time.

We have been able to critically examine the layer poultry farms and egg production business, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast.

First Fiscal Year-: $250,000
Second Fiscal Year-: $600,000
Third Fiscal Year-: $900,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown that can impact negatively on household spending, bad weather cum natural disasters (draughts, epidemics), and unfavorable government policies. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are quite aware that the reason why some commercial poultry farms and egg production companies hardly make good profits is their inability to sell off their live chickens and eggs as at when due.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the poultry farming and egg production industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall business goal of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC.

Over and above, we have perfected our sale and marketing strategies first by networking with agriculture merchants and businesses that rely on a daily supply of live chicken and eggs. In summary, Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC will adopt the following strategies in marketing our commercial farm produce;

Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to stakeholders in the agriculture industry, grocery stores, households, hotels and restaurants and agriculture produce merchants’ et al.
Advertise our business in agriculture and food related magazines and websites
List our commercial layer poultry farms and egg production business on yellow pages ads
Attend related agriculture and food expos, seminars and business fairs et al
Leverage on the internet to promote our business
Engage in direct marketing
Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Any business that wants to grow beyond the corner of the street or the city they are operating from must be ready and willing to utilize every available means (conventional and non – conventional) to advertise and promote the business. We intend growing our business which is why we have perfected plans to build our brand via every available means.

We know that it is important to create strategies that will help us boost our brand awareness and to create a corporate identity for our commercial layer poultry farm and chicken egg production business. Below are the platforms we will leverage on to boost our commercial layer poultry farm brand and to promote and advertise our business;

Place adverts on community based newspapers, radio and TV stations
Encourage the use of word of mouth publicity from our loyal customers
Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Badoo, Google+ and other platforms to promote our business.
Ensure that our we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Houston – Texas
Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in and around our neighborhood
Contact corporate organizations, households, landlord associations and grocery stores by calling them up and informing them of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC and the poultry produce we sell
Advertise our business in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site
Brand all our official cars and trucks and ensure that all our staff members and management staff wears our branded shirt or cap at regular intervals.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

If you want to get the right pricing for your live layer chicken and egg, then you should ensure that you choose a good location for your commercial layer poultry farm and chicken egg production business, choose a good breed of layers that will guarantee bountiful harvest (eggs), cut the cost of running your poultry farm to the barest minimum.

Of course, you should try as much as possible to attract buyers to your poultry farm as against taking your eggs and chickens to the market to source for buyers; with this, you would have successfully eliminate the cost of transporting the goods to the market and other logistics.

We are quite aware that one of the easiest means of penetrating the market and acquiring loads of customers is to sell at competitive prices, hence we will do all we can to ensure that the prices of our eggs and layers – chickens are going to be what other commercial layer poultry farmers would look towards beating.

One thing is certain; the nature of commercial layer poultry farming and egg production business makes it possible for layer poultry farmers to place prices for their eggs and live chickens based on their discretion without following the benchmark in the industry. The truth is that it is one of the means of avoiding running into a loss.

Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is all inclusive because we are aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America. Here are the payment options that Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC will make available to her clients;

Payment via bank transfer
Payment with cash
Payment via credit cards/Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
Payment via online bank transfer
Payment via check
Payment via mobile money transfer
Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payments for our live chicken and eggs purchase without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our chickens and eggs.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

When it comes to calculating the cost of starting a commercial poultry farm , there are some key factors that should serve as a guide. The different types of birds to be raised in a commercial poultry farm determine the total cost of setting up the business.

Besides, in setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting / leasing a big facility, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business.

The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked. As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business, it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money.

Below are some of the basic areas we will spend our start-up capital in setting up our commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business;

The total fee for incorporating the business (commercial layer poultry farm) in United States of America – $750.
The amount needed to acquire/lease a farm land – $50,000
The amount required for preparing the farm land (poultry fencing et al) – $30,000
Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $3,300.
Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580
The total cost for hiring business consultant – $2,500
The total cost for payment of insurance policy covers (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) at a total premium of – $9,400
The amount required for the purchase of the first set of layer chickens – $10,000
The cost for acquiring the required working tools and equipment/machines/hatchery et al – $50,000
Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
The cost of launching an official Website – $600
Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $2,000

Going by the report from detailed research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need an average of $500,000 to start a standard commercial layer poultry farm and chicken egg production business in the United States of America.

Generating Funds/Startup Capital for Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC

No matter how fantastic your business idea is, if you do not have the required money to finance the business, the business might not become a reality.

Finance is a very important factor when it comes to starting a business such as commercial layer poultry farm and egg production business. No doubt raising startup capital for a business might not come cheap, but it is a task that an entrepreneur must go through.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is a family business that is solely owned and financed by Grace Milton and her immediate family members. They do not intend to welcome any external business partners, which is why she has decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital to 3 major sources. These are the areas we intend generating our startup capital;

Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings
Source for soft loans from family members and friends
Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $150,000 (Personal savings $100,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $350,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be long before the business closes shop.

One of our major goals of starting Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers is to retail our live layer – chickens and eggs a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Grace Milton® Poultry Farms, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

We know that if this is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry, and they will be more committed to helping us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

Business Name Availability Check: Completed
Business Registration: Completed
Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
Application for business license and permit: Completed
Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
Leasing of farm land and building of standard poultry (cages): In Progress
Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
Generating capital from family members: Completed
Application for Loan from the bank: In Progress
Writing of Business Plan: Completed
Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging, Marketing/Promotional Materials: In Progress
Recruitment of employees: In Progress
Purchase of the needed hatcheries, creates, furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In progress
Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
Opening party/launching party planning: In Progress
Compilation of our list of products that will be available in our store: Completed
Establishing business relationship with vendors – key players in the industry: In Progress

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Guide to making money from layers chicken farming

Layers chicken farming: Layer poultry farming means raising egg laying poultry birds for the purpose of commercial egg production.

Layer chickens are such a special species of hens, which need to be raised from when they are one day old. They start laying eggs commercially from 18-19 weeks of age. They remain laying eggs continuously till their 72-78 weeks of age. They can produce about one kg of eggs by consuming about 2.25 kg of food during their egg laying period. For the purpose of producing hybrid eggs layer, consider the various characteristics of cock and hen before breeding. There are various types of highly egg productive layer breeds available throughout the world.

SEE MORE: This is what you need to make money in poultry farming

Layers chicken farming: Layer Breeds According to the nature and color of egg, layer hens are of two types. Short description of these two types are listed below.

White Egg Laying Hens: This type of hens are comparatively smaller in size. Relatively eat less food, and the color of egg shell is white. Isa White, Lehman White, Nikchik, Bab Cock BV-300, Havard White, Hi Sex White, Sever White, Hi line White, Bovanch White etc. are some popular white egg laying chickens.
Brown Egg Laying Hens: Brown egg laying hens are relatively larger in size. They eat more foods, compared to white egg layers. Lay bigger eggs than other laying breeds. Egg shell is brown colored. There are many types of brown layer available. Among those Isa Brown, Hi Sex Brown, Sever 579, Lehman Brown, Hi Line Brown, Bab Cock BV-380, Gold Line, Bablona Tetro, Bablona Harko, Havard Brown etc. are very suitable for commercial layer poultry farming.

Layers chicken farming: Layer Hen Selection You have to keep in mind some essential information before selecting the layer hens for your poultry farming business. You have to select those breeds which are suitable for your layer poultry farming business and can produce well in your area. Read below for selecting proper breeds for your business.

For commercial eggs production, you have to chose highly productive laying hens correctly.
All type of hens do not produce equal number of eggs.
The chosen breeds must have to have good production capability.
If your chosen breed contain the desired characteristic and have a reputation for egg production, then that breed is suitable for your business.
Always purchase healthy chicks from a famous and popular hatchery. You can see their catalog before purchasing.

Layers chicken farming: Keeping Chicks During the first weeks after birth, many chicks do not want to drink water due to transporting them from one place to another. So you have to make adequate water drinking systems in their brooder house, and you have to train them for drinking water. Mix 5% glucose with water, so that they can easily get energy. Provide them any types of high quality multivitamin by mixing with water (suggested by electrolyte production companies instruction). Multivitamin and electrolyte are very effective when you transport chick from a long distance. It reduces tiredness and lack of water, and help to make the chick normal.

Layers chicken farming: Vaccination and it’s Importance Vaccination program is a must for chicks for keeping them free from all types of diseases. The main advantage of poultry vaccination are listed below.

Timely vaccination makes disease resistance power in the body of chick.
Help to keep the hen free from infective poultry diseases.
Disease prevalence will be less.
Mortality rate will reduce.
And low mortality rate = more production = more profit.

There are many types of poultry vaccines are available for layer hens. Marex, Ranikheth, Gamboro, Bruchaities, Bosonto, Salmonela etc. are used for layer chickens.

Before Vaccination You have to maintain some rules before vaccination.

Hold the chickens very carefully.
Vaccinate the chickens without any strain.
There is no need to vaccinate the ill hen.
Wash the vaccination equipment with hot boiled water or germicide medicine/antiseptic.
Do the vaccination program in cold weather condition.
Preventive vaccine is always applicable to healthy bird. Never vaccinate an infected bird.

chicken, chicken picture, layer chicken, layer chicken farming, poultry, poultry picture, layer poultry, layer poultry farming

You have to provide the growing chicks special care until they reach 4-5 weeks of age.
After brooding serve them good quality pellet feed. It will make good results in the future. They will produce egg highly. High quality pellet will make the chickens healthy and increase their body weight.
So it is very important to provide them quality pellet feed during growing period.

Egg Production from Commercial Layer Farm Egg production from a commercial layer farm depends on the care and farm management. If you take good care of your birds and manage them properly, then the production and profit will be high.

Withing the first 20 weeks of age, about 5% of hens start laying eggs.
About 10% birds start laying at their 21 weeks of age.
When they reach 26 to 30 weeks of age, they produce highly. Although, it may be different depending on their strain.
After laying a maximum number of eggs, they usually stop laying for a few days.
And after this period, their egg production might reduces slowly.
Egg laying rate and size of eggs increases gradually.
The hens grow till their 40 weeks of age.
Weight and size of eggs increases till their 50 weeks of age.

Method and Importance of Lip Cutting Cutting the lip of laying hens is very important. The main benefits are listed below.

Lip cutting help to reduce mutual fights.
It help to prevent food waste.
You have to cut your chick’s lip at their age of 8 to 10 days.
Cut the lip of growing chicken at their 8 to 12 weeks of age.
Cut the lip of chicks 0.2 cm from their nose.
Cut 0.45 cm in case of growing chickens.
Cut the both upper and lower lips.
Don’t cut the both lip together. Cut one after another.
Use block chick trimming machine to cut the lips.

chicken, poultry, poultry farming, layer chicken farming

Feeding There are many companies available throughout the world, which are producing commercial feed for layer chickens. You can buy feed from your local market or make the feed at your own house. You have to be sure that the feed you bought are enriched with essential food value. Protein and mineral are very important for laying hens.

Provide 2% of calcium for two weeks after their birth.
If you notice they are not gaining expected weight, then you have to serve starter feed for eight weeks.
Serve feed two or three times in a day till their 18 weeks of age.
Demand of feed increase very fast when the birds start laying.
Serve them layer poultry feed according to their age and weights.
Don’t decrease the amount of feed while laying (even if their weight increase).

Water Management Chickens health depend on the supply of pure, clean and fresh drinking water. You have to provide adequate water according to the demand of your laying hens. For purifying the water, mix 0.3 g bliching per litter. Determine a suitable place to keep the water pot inside the poultry house. Supply cold water during summer season and hot weather, and slightly hot water in cold weather or winter season.

In accordance with the age and species of chickens, food providing can control the weights of chicken. Use sufficient calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, amino acid and other mineral substance in their food. For purifying water use bliching powder or chlorine. If you follow the methods mentioned above, then you can make better profit from your layer poultry farming business .

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Nice piece. God bless you

Very clear info there… keep up

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Is Poultry farming in Kenya Really Profitable in 2024?

Are you looking to start or expand your poultry farming business in Kenya?

There are different types of poultry farming you can do in Kenya like chicken, quails, turkey, ducks and guinea fowls farming. You can practice it all over the country in every county, any time of the year. Some do it under large scale, medium scale while majority do it under small scale production. Hybrid Layer Egg Production and Selling Fertilized Eggs are the most profitable models due to high revenue relative to costs. Broiler Meat Production and Improved Kienyeji Meat Production offer steady profits, with kienyeji being slightly more profitable. Brooding Day-Old Chicks can result in initial losses but may become profitable with a well-established customer base. Incubation and Hatching Services provide a consistent income opportunity with each batch, especially after recouping the initial investment. Selling Poultry Manure has minimal costs and offers a small but steady additional income stream.

This post will give you the latest facts and the most promising chicken farming models in the country with summaries for possible costs and profits.

Facts about Poultry Farming in Kenya

Poultry farming will remain one of the most profitable agribusiness idea in Kenya. According to economic survey of 2024, the marketed value of chicken and eggs in 2023 was Ksh. 8,722.0 million a drop from Ksh. 10,870.2 million in 2022 using the current market prices. It arises from the growing population as well as rising demand for white chickens’ meat, eggs and its related products like one day old chicks, chicken cages and incubators.


Value of Chicken & Eggs (Ksh Million)	9,227.8	9,478.8	9,690.70	10,870.2	8,722.0

Select data for Current Trends and Statistics for chicken Population production and consumption in Kenya

🐔 As of 2022 Kenya had about 58.6 million domestic birds, with 81% being indigenous chickens .The current poultry population is 4,187,154 broilers, 5,586,657 layers, 47,387,967 indigenous chickens, with the others being 1,444,330
🍗 Kenya’s poultry meat production has grown from 35,000 tonnes in 2019 to an estimated 38,000 tonnes per year in 2023, driven by increasing consumer demand for chicken meat. However, the per capita poultry meat consumption in Kenya stands at 0.65kg, which is way below the WHO requirement of 12kg.
🥚 The per capita egg consumption in Kenya has risen from 45 eggs per person per year in 2019 to an estimated 52 eggs per person per year in 2022, though this remains significantly lower than the WHO recommendation of 300 eggs per person per year.

How to estimate your costs and profits as a Poultry farmer.

Wondering how much money you can make keeping chicken in Kenya? You will need to estimate the costs and profits before you can invest. Use a simple profit analysis to accomplish that. One of the tools you can use is the Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) for chicken farming. It will compare;

The total revenue you can get for selling; live birds, chicken meat, eggs and chicken manure
You will incur the capital expense one time; at the start of your business to build the chicken coop and buy equipment.
The operating expense is a variable cost you will incur to buy and rear chicken. It includes the price of a 1-day-old chick, vaccines, chicken feed, etc.

The analysis has various assumptions for quantity requirements per bird. It also uses the current prices of farm inputs and finished products.

How profitable is Poultry farming in Kenya?

		s
$750 (KSH 112,500)	$1,000 (KSH 150,000)	$250 (KSH 37,500)
$800 (KSH 120,000)	$1,200 (KSH 180,000)	$400 (KSH 60,000)
$740 (KSH 111,000)	$5,000 (KSH 750,000)	$4,260 (KSH 639,000)
$400 (KSH 60,000)	$300 (KSH 45,000)	-$100 (KSH -15,000)
$400 (KSH 60,000)	$500 (KSH 75,000)	$100 (KSH 15,000)
$1,500 (KSH 225,000)	$6,000 (KSH 900,000)	$4,500 (KSH 675,000)
Minimal (Labor)	$50 (KSH 7,500)	$50 (KSH 7,500)
$900 (KSH 135,000)	$75 per batch (KSH 11,250)	$75 per batch (KSH 11,250)

1. Poultry Farming for White Meat Production

One of the most common approaches to poultry farming is raising chickens for meat. Two popular choices are broilers and improved kienyeji chickens. Each type has its advantages and profitability potential.

Broilers Chicken Farming

Hybrid broilers chicken are a top choice for meat production due to their rapid growth. These birds can be ready for market in as little as six to eight weeks. Their fast growth cycle allows farmers to have multiple production cycles within a year, maximizing profit potential.

Read Next: How Profitable is Broilers Meat Chicken farming in Kenya?

Purchase of 100 day-old broiler chicks: $150 (KSH 22,500)
Feed (approximately 3 kg per bird over 3 months): $300 (KSH 45,000)
Housing and equipment: $200 (KSH 30,000)
Miscellaneous (vaccinations, labor): $100 (KSH 15,000)
Total Costs: $750 (KSH 112,500)
Average selling price per bird: $10 (KSH 1,500)
Total revenue from selling 100 birds: $1,000 (KSH 150,000)
Profit: $250 (KSH 37,500)

Improved Kienyeji Chicken Farming

Multi purpose Improved kienyeji chicken breeds, such as Sasso and Kenbro, are becoming increasingly popular due to their resilience, better taste, and higher market prices. Although they take longer to mature than broilers, kienyeji chickens fetch a higher price per kilogram, and their demand is rising, especially in urban areas.

Purchase of 100 day-old kienyeji chicks: $200 (KSH 30,000)
Total Costs: $800 (KSH 120,000)
Average selling price per bird: $12 (KSH 1,800)
Total revenue from selling 100 birds: $1,200 (KSH 180,000)
Profit: $400 (KSH 60,000)

Conclusion on chicken Meat Production

While broilers offer quicker returns, improved kienyeji chickens provide higher profitability per bird. The choice between the two depends on your market and production capacity. Urban markets, in particular, have shown a preference for kienyeji due to the perception of higher quality and health benefits.

2. Poultry Farming for Egg Production

Egg production is another profitable venture within poultry farming, providing a consistent income stream. The primary focus here is on hybrid layers, bred specifically for high egg production for consumption. The other way is to sell

Hybrid Layers Egg Farming

Hybrid layers are bred for optimal egg production and can lay up to 300 eggs per year. They start laying at about 18-20 weeks and continue for around two years, making them an excellent choice for continuous income.

Read More: How Profitable is Hybrid Layers Egg Chicken Farming in Kenya?

Purchase of 100 day-old hybrid layer chicks: $200 (KSH 30,000)
Feed (approximately 2 kg per bird per month for 6 months): $240 (KSH 36,000)
Total Costs: $740 (KSH 111,000)
Average selling price per egg: $0.20 (KSH 30)
Average production per bird: 250 eggs in 6 months
Total revenue from 100 birds: 100 birds x 250 eggs x $0.20 = $5,000 (KSH 750,000)
Profit: $4,260 (KSH 639,000)

Selling Kienyeji Chicken Fertilized Eggs

In regions with high demand for improved kienyeji chickens, selling fertilized eggs can be extremely profitable. Fertilized eggs are often sought after by farmers looking to start their flocks or hatcheries.

Purchase of 100 hens for egg production: $800 (KSH 120,000)
Feed (approximately 1 kg per bird per month for 6 months): $600 (KSH 90,000)
Miscellaneous: $100 (KSH 15,000)
Total Costs: $1,500 (KSH 225,000)
Average selling price per fertilized egg: $0.30 (KSH 45)
Average production per hen: 200 eggs in 6 months
Total revenue from 100 hens: 100 hens x 200 eggs x $0.30 = $6,000 (KSH 900,000)
Profit: $4,500 (KSH 675,000)

Conclusion on Chicken Egg Production

Hybrid layers farming as well as selling fertilized eggs gives you higher profit margins due to the consistent demand for eggs. This model is particularly effective for farmers who prefer steady income over large, one-time profits from meat production.

Read Next: Is Improved Multipurpose Kienyeji chicken farming in Kenya Profitable?

3. Brooding and Reselling 1 Month 0ld Chicks

Brooding is focused on the intensive care of day-old chicks to ensure their survival and growth during the critical early weeks of life, while selling one-month-old chicks caters to farmers looking for healthier, more independent birds that require less immediate care.

Brooding Day-Old Chicks

Brooding refers to the management of chicks from day-old until they are about 6 weeks old. This stage is critical for the chicks’ growth and survival, as they require special care to ensure they thrive in their early life. The temperature must be carefully managed, starting at around 32-35°C (90-95°F) and gradually decreasing as the chicks grow

During brooding, chicks are vulnerable to diseases, so monitoring their health and behavior is crucial. The brooding area must be clean, dry, and well-ventilated. Bedding material is used to keep the chicks comfortable, and their feeding and watering needs must be met consistently

Purchase of 100 day-old chicks: $150 (KSH 22,500)
Feed (approximately 1 kg per bird for 3 weeks): $50 (KSH 7,500)
Brooding equipment (heat lamps, bedding): $150 (KSH 22,500)
Miscellaneous: $50 (KSH 7,500)
Total Costs: $400 (KSH 60,000)
Selling price per chick at 3 weeks: $3 (KSH 450)
Total revenue from selling 100 chicks: $300 (KSH 45,000)
Profit: -$100 (KSH -15,000) (This initial loss can be offset by establishing a reliable customer base for future sales.)

Selling 1 Month-Old Chicks

Selling one-month-old chicks involves providing chicks that have been brooded and are now more independent. At this stage, the chicks are generally healthier, more robust, and capable of sustaining themselves with less intensive care.

Most Layers chicken farmers prefer purchasing one-month-old chicks because they are less labor-intensive to care for than day-old chicks, which require constant monitoring and heat. Buyers often look for chicks that are vaccinated and healthy, ready to be integrated into their own flocks

Feed (approximately 2 kg per bird for 1 month): $200 (KSH 30,000)
Selling price per month-old chick: $5 (KSH 750)
Total revenue from selling 100 chicks: $500 (KSH 75,000)
Profit: $100 (KSH 15,000)

Conclusion on Brooding and Reselling

Although the initial costs may seem high, this model builds customer trust and offers the potential for long-term profitability as you become known for providing healthy, well-cared-for chicks.

4. Selling Value-Added Poultry Products

In addition to selling meat and eggs, poultry farming can be further diversified by offering value-added products or by products such as organic manure and feathers

Selling Poultry Manure

Organic manure is in increasing demand due to the push for sustainable organic farming practices. Poultry manure is rich in nutrients and can be sold to farmers or gardeners.

Costs: Minimal, primarily labor for collection.
Selling price per bag of manure: $5 (KSH 750)
Total revenue from 100 birds (approximately 10 bags): $50 (KSH 7,500)
Profit: $50 (KSH 7,500)

Conclusion on Value-Added Products: and manure offers high-profit margins with relatively low additional costs. These products allow you to diversify your income streams and maximize profitability.

5. Incubation and Hatching Services

For those with the right equipment, providing incubation and hatching services can be a profitable venture. This model involves hatching chicks from fertilized eggs and selling them as day-old chicks or providing incubation services to other farmers.

Investing in a solar incubator allows you to hatch eggs either for your flock or for sale cheaply. This service is highly sought after by farmers who prefer not to invest in their incubators or those who produce fertilized eggs but lack hatching facilities.

Incubator (500-egg capacity): $800 (KSH 120,000)
Electricity and maintenance: $100 (KSH 15,000)
Total Costs: $900 (KSH 135,000)
Incubation service fee per egg: $0.20 (KSH 30)
Hatching rate: 75%
Total revenue per 500 eggs: 500 eggs x 0.75 x $0.20 = $75 (KSH 11,250)
Profit per batch (after recouping incubator costs): $75 (KSH 11,250)

This agribusiness model requires an upfront investment in equipment, but it can be highly profitable if you consistently provide reliable hatching services. Partnering with local farmers who produce fertilized eggs but lack incubators can be a stable source of income.

Challenges Faced by the Poultry Farmers in Kenya

Poor supply of quality breeders and few sources of indigenous chicken breeding stock .
High cost and low quality of commercial chicken feed, with 70% of raw materials being imported .
Poor accessibility of quality poultry inputs and services.
High incidences of poultry pests and diseases.
Weak poultry producer and trader organizations and associations.
Competition from imports for those dealing in broilers and layers

How to Succeed in Poultry farming in Kenya

If you’re considering entering or expanding your operations in the poultry farming sector, the following are some essential steps to get started and stay profitable. You will need to follow good agriculture practices to get high profits. It involves proper chicken houses, vaccination and strict feeding program like one by Kenchic poultry farm.

Conduct Market Research : Understand the demand for poultry products in your area. Identify your target customers and their preferences.
Create a Business Plan : Outline your goals, budget, and strategies. Include details on financing, location, and infrastructure.
Choose the Right Location : Select a suitable site for your farm, considering factors like accessibility, availability of clean water, and proximity to markets.
Invest in Quality Chicks : Source your chicks from reputable chick sellers to ensure healthy stock.
Focus on Nutrition and Health : Provide balanced chicken feed and implement a vaccination program to maintain the health of your flock.
Record Keeping : Maintain accurate records of your expenses, sales, and production to monitor your farm’s performance.
Marketing and Sales : Develop a marketing strategy to promote your products and reach potential buyers.

Poultry farming in Kenya offers various profitable models, each with its unique advantages and challenges. Whether you’re interested in meat production, egg production, brooding, or selling value-added products, there’s a model to suit your resources, skills, and market demands.

For Quick Returns: Broiler production is your best bet due to its short cycle and high demand.
For Steady Income: Hybrid layers offer consistent income through egg production.
For Niche Markets: Consider brooding and reselling chicks or offering incubation services.

Successful poultry farming requires careful planning, proper management, and an understanding of your market. By selecting the right model and diligently managing costs, you can achieve significant profitability in this versatile and rewarding sector.

Poultry Value Chain in Two Medium-Sized Cities in Kenya; Insights From Cluster Theory

You can make money raising commercial layers

Written by Maurice Rangoma.

User Rating: 5 / 5

One of the profitable poultry farming business is layers chicken farming. You can start small and expand as you grow. This poultry house is designed to accommodate 200 birds. If more than 200 birds will be kept,

the length of the house can be extended by 3.9 meters for every 100 layers. The materials indicated can however be replaced by any alternatives available in your locality if convenient and less costly. For example off-cuts can be replaced by bricks and cedar posts by ordinary tree poles. The space where wire mesh is used for ventilation can be altered according to local climatic conditions. One assumption is that there exists a room that can be used for rearing the chicks and another available as a store for feeds and other poultry materials. This venture is especially suitable for those in the urban and peri-urban areas because it does not require vast land and the market exists nearby. Many youth groups formed by developmental organizations can take advantage and raise commercial layers for financial gains.

House plan and design

Front view

Ground plan

Cost of materials and construction

Materials Required	Units	Qty	Cost (Kshs)	Total (Kshs)
2 m long corrugated iron sheets	No	40	800	32,000
Wire netting	roll	1	5000	5,000
Ballast	7 tonnes load	1	3000	3,000
Sand	7 tonnes load	1	9000	9,000
Cement	bags	7	900	6,300
Rails (3’ x 2’)	feet	400	30	12,000
Rails (2’ x 2’)	feet	400	30	12,000
Cedar posts	No	30	200	6,000
Off-cuts	pieces	150	120	18,000
Suitable material for deep litter e.g. wood shavings	load	1	1000	1,000
Labour cost @ 30% of construction materials				31,290

Poultry equipment

Feeders Feeders are distributed at one round feeder per 25 birds. Therefore 8 feeders are required for each batch of 200 birds. Each round feeder goes at Kshs 600. Cost = Kshs. 4,800.

Waterers Waterers are distributed alternately between feeders therefore 8 are required for a batch of 200 birds. Each feeder goes at Kshs 600. Cost = Kshs. 4,800.

Laying nests One box for every four birds is enough. Dimensions should be 12 inches base diameter and 8 inches high walls on the lower end and 12 inches on the higher end. These are usually made of wood. A slanted roof to deter buildup of manure should be placed over the nest boxes to ensure comfort and privacy to the birds.

Timber size	Length	Unit cost	Total cost
12” x 1”	200	30	6,000
8” x 1”	100	30	3,000
Total			9,000

Perches or roosts Chickens prefer to roost at night on perches. Perching space of 15 to 20 cm should be allowed for each bird. The cross-section of each perch bar should be 2 to 3 cm.

Item	No	Unit price	Total cost
12’ Rafters	140	40	5,600
Round poles	10	120	1,200
Total			6,800

Assuming a laying percentage of 90%, 6 egg trays are required for each batch of 200 birds. Cost = 600.

Poultry Feeds

4 (70kg bag) bags of chick mash per month for 17 weeks cost about 4 x 4 x 3,300 = 52,800.

8 (70 kg bag )bags of layers mash per month for 200 layers. Cost is 2500 x 8 = Kshs 20,000 per month

NB: You need to verify these prices because feed prices have been changing very fast and depend on locality.

Item	Total cost
House construction	135,590
Poultry equipment	26,000
Poultry feeds - chicks	52,800
Poultry feed – layers (1 year)	160,000
Labour @ Kshs. 3000 pm	36,000
Veterinary costs	3,000
Total	413,390

Year 1 Assuming laying percentage at 90% 200 birds x 90% x 8 Mo x 30 days x 8 Kshs/egg = 345,600

Year 2 Assume laying percent of 80% 200 birds x 80% x 12 months x 30 days x 8 Kshs/egg = 460,800 Assuming 80% survival rate Sale of spent chicken @ Kshs 400 per bird = 200 x 80% x 400 = 64,000

	Year 1	Year 2
House construction	135,590	0
Poultry equipment	26,000	0
Poultry feeds - chicks	52,800	0
Poultry feed – layers (1 year)	160,000	240,000
Labour @ Kshs. 3000 pm	36,000	36,000
Veterinary expenses	3,000	3,000

What you can do to cut costs

Obviously the first would be to rent a house instead of constructing one. This will reduce your cost by Kshs 148,070 save for monthly rents for the two years. Besides relying on a temporary structure, the other disadvantage is that you have no control over the housing therefore some house improvements might not be possible. Alternatively you can construct a cheaper house using cheaper materials, and opting for an earth floor. Finally, other than the financial profits you can get from this endeavour there is also the other benefit which most people do not consider; the vast experience you will get over the two year period in rearing layers for commercial purposes. Well you can try this at home.

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Commercial Layer Farming In Kenya

Layers are egg laying poultry birds for the purpose of commercial egg production. Layer chickens are a special highbred hens, which need to be raised from when they are one day old. They start laying eggs commercially as early as 18 weeks of age. They remain laying eggs continuously till their 72-78 weeks of age. Popular Commercial layer breed reared in Kenya is Isa brown.

Housing for Layer Birds

Ideal house for layers should be spacious enough allowing 2 birds per square feet, should be well ventilated, draught free, the roof should be leaf proof.
The house should be rectangular in shape and walls higher than 3ft on the longer side. The wall can be made from off-cuts, iron sheets, silver boards or bricks. The rest parts of the walls can be made of wire mesh. The roof should have a reflecting surface.
Cement floors are the best as they are easier to clean. There should be a foot-bath at the entrance to the house for those entering the house to disinfect their foot ware.
To reduce the risk of rodents gaining entrance into the flock house, clear all the vegetation in an area 3-4 meters around the flock house. The feed store should also be separate from the house.

Hygiene and sanitation of Layer Birds

All-in all-out system is the best management practice as it prevents the build-up of diseases and disease outbreaks. If one chose to keep flocks of different ages, then each flock MUST be housed in its own house, and have a distance of 10m between the units. The flock house should be constructed in isolated areas to decrease the risk of contamination. Fence the houses to exclude stray animals and visitors, keep the door always closed.
Poultry workers should always wear clean, disinfected foot ware and clothing. When visiting birds of different ages, start with the youngest flock and always visit sick flocks last, irrespective of their age.
Avoid introduction of materials and / or equipment into the poultry house without thorough cleaning and disinfection as these items can be carriers of disease- causing organisms.

Rearing From Day One Old Chick

Preparing the house

As soon as the old flock has been depopulated, clean and disinfect the layer house and equipment.
Remove all the old litter to avoid re-contamination of the house.
Wash the house with water and soap, starting from the roof, walls and then the floor. Allow the house to dry before disinfecting it (roof, walls and floor).
Wash and disinfect all the equipment.
Allow the house to remain empty for at least 2 weeks after removing old stock to reduce the build-up of diseases and parasites.
Place 4 inches of litter material (wood shavings, straw, rice husk or coffee husks). The litter helps in insulate the floor and absorb moisture from chicken droppings.
Prepare the brooder area at least 24 house before the chicks arrive.
Check the brooder temperature before introducing chicks, ensure feed and water troughs are at the right place (with clean water in which glucose has been dissolved and clean feed on newspaper before the chicks learn to feed from the troughs)

Brooding and brooder management of layer chicken

Collect chicks that are healthy with no signs of infection and free from deformities.
Transport chicks in well ventilated boxes; avoid wind and direct sunlight or rain. Transport should be from hatcheries to the farm without any unnecessary stops
On arrival at the farm carefully remove the chick boxes from the transport vehicle into the flock house. Carefully remove the chicks from the boxes into the brooder ring.
Once the chicks are introduced in the brooder, provide them with clean feed and water. Add glucose, vitamins and liquid paraffin in water. The glucose provides the chicks with ready source of energy and help overcoming stress while liquid paraffin assist in passage of faeces.
For the first 48 hours spread feed on a paper placed on the litter, the papers with feed should be well distributed in the brooder area.
Maintain proper temperature in the brooder temperature. The temperature should be monitored by installing minimum-maximum thermometer in the brooder at a height of the chicks
Excessive chick noise during brooding is an indication that the chicks are uncomfortable. This is commonly due to improper temperatures, water or feed stress.
The brooding area should be enlarged progressively to avoid overcrowding. The birds should be allowed to occupy the whole house by the time they are 3 weeks of age.
During brooding it is essential to maintain proper ventilation regardless of the cost of maintaining the brooder temperatures. Ventilation is important in removing the ammonia from the house and ensuring that the litter is dry thereby reducing disease challenge. Layers also require fresh air to grow and produce eggs.

Temperature requirement in the brooder for Layers


1	33-35	30 32
2	30-32	27 29
3	27-29	24 26
4	24 26	21 23

Read also Light,Feeding & Disease management in Layers farming

Commercial layer Farming In Kenya: Light, Feeding & Disease Management

How to make home made dairy meal, related articles, ideal house size for chicken farming in kenya, modern and simple poultry housing designs, hands on training on indigenous chicken-karlo, weak-shelled eggs not with my layers, broiler farming in kenya, kenya-how to stop cannibalism in poultry, how to control fowlpox disease, tips for successful brooding of chicken, how to rear ducks, poultry farming in kenya| how to make feeds..., leave a comment cancel reply.

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[Pdf Sample] Poultry Farming Business Plan In Kenya Docx
In conclusion, starting a poultry farming business in Kenya offers significant opportunities for entrepreneurs and farmers. By following this comprehensive business plan, you can lay a strong foundation for a successful and profitable venture. Remember to adapt and innovate based on market trends and evolving consumer demands to stay ...
Step-by-step Beginners' guide for 200 layers chicken farming in Kenya
When planning, you need to formulate a business plan for how to go about it from planning to optimization. Decide on the number of chicken you would like to have on your farm laying to your desired amount of eggs and also assess the demand for eggs in your area. ... Step-by-step Beginners' guide for 200 layers chicken farming in Kenya 2024;
Chicken Farming Business Plan: How to Start a Profitable Poultry Farm
A healthy layer chicken can lay up to 325 eggs in a year. Selling fully grown healthy chickens can earn a profit of $10 to $11 per bird. Poultry eggs can be sold for $2 to $3 per crate, with each crate containing 30 eggs. With 500 layers producing 12,000 eggs per month, a poultry farmer can make $1,500 per month.
Is Poultry Layers farming in Kenya really profitable in 2024?
The revenue from selling ex-layers as live birds, eggs, and poultry manure is Ksh. 626,180. Most of this is from selling 1,720 trays of eggs at Ksh 550, 400. The most production cost of raising them is getting chicken feed at KSh. 529,100. The total operating cost is Ksh 552,780 giving you a gross profit of Ksh 73400.
Chicken Farm Business Plan
This business plan provides a blueprint for how to start and manage your Chicken Farm business. Our detailed research and analysis, including interviews with entrepreneurs and stakeholders, will ensure that you plan your future business for success. A business plan is used for various purposes including to (a) Raise funding from investors ...
PDF Business Plan Proposal For Poultry Farming In Kenya Prepared By
ises experienced professionals with extensive knowledge of poultry farming. They will oversee day-to-day operations, including flock mana. ement, feed management, health monitoring, and overall farm administration. We will also prioritize em. o ensure a skilled and motivated workforce.Marketing and Sales Strategies:We.
Chicken Farming Kenya: How to start a profitable poultry business in Kenya
LAND: The no 1 thing you need to get right in poultry farming in Kenya is land. a plot of land of 120 x 60 square meters is okay for setting up medium scale poultry farm in Kenya, at least for a start. Once you have land that is big enough for your farm set up, almost half of your needs have been taken care of.
The best chicken farming business plan (Updated Plan)
Clarify your business idea with certainty and without any ambiguity. Write something like, I want to rear 500 broilers per cycle, 7 cycles per year. I will locally produce, process pack and sell the meat at slaughter weight of 1.75kg live weight at the restaurants and hotels within Siaya and Bondo district. Clarify that you will produce meat or ...
Poultry Farming in Kenya: Breeds, How to Start, and PDF
Types of layers of chicken in Kenya . The best chicken breeds for eggs in Kenya are the best lay eggs between the 18-80 weeks of your life. You will earn more money by selling 2 kg ex-layered hens for slaughter. They have a good conversion ratio of 6 eggs per kg of used layer mesh. The best types of layers in Kenya are; Kenchic Layers; shaver ...
Chicken farming in Kenya business plan
Here are the steps to create a comprehensive business plan for your chicken farming operation: Market research: Research the demand for chicken products in Kenya, including the types of chicken products that are in demand, and the target customer demographic. Choose a business model: Consider the size of your operation, the amount of investment ...
Poultry Farming In Kenya: Business Plan For Beginners
Table of Contents. Importance of Poultry Farming in Kenya. How to Start Poultry Farming in Kenya. Step 1: Learn Practically. Step 2: Complete a Training. Step 3: Make A Business Plan. Step 4: Select a Good Location. Step 5: Determine Your Farming Method. Step 6: Choose The Right Breed.
How to Make more Money in Chicken Farming, Kenya
Business Plan. Your first step in running a successful business is to manage it professionally. You will need market research and an execution strategy to run a profitable farm. Then the process will lead to a business plan draft for your poultry farm. It will guide you to operate a small farm and expand it in scale and variety of products.
Poultry Farming Business in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide
Poultry farming involves raising domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, or geese for various purposes like meat (broilers) or egg production (layers). The poultry sector plays a significant role in Kenya's agricultural economy due to its high demand locally and internationally. It offers numerous employment opportunities and ...
A 1000 layers poultry farm
Here are some steps to follow when setting up a 1000-layer poultry farm in Kenya: Conduct market research: It is important to understand the demand for eggs in your area and the competition you will face. Conduct market research to determine the size of the market and the types of eggs that are in demand. Develop a business plan: A business ...
Layer Farming Business Plan [Sample Template]
The total cost for hiring business consultant - $2,500. The total cost for payment of insurance policy covers (general liability, workers' compensation and property casualty) at a total premium of - $9,400. The amount required for the purchase of the first set of layer chickens - $10,000.
Guide to making money from layers chicken farming
It help to prevent food waste. You have to cut your chick's lip at their age of 8 to 10 days. Cut the lip of growing chicken at their 8 to 12 weeks of age. Cut the lip of chicks 0.2 cm from their nose. Cut 0.45 cm in case of growing chickens. Cut the both upper and lower lips. Don't cut the both lip together.
How Profitable is poultry farming in Kenya?
🐔 As of 2022 Kenya had about 58.6 million domestic birds, with 81% being indigenous chickens.The current poultry population is 4,187,154 broilers, 5,586,657 layers, 47,387,967 indigenous chickens, with the others being 1,444,330; 🍗 Kenya's poultry meat production has grown from 35,000 tonnes in 2019 to an estimated 38,000 tonnes per year in 2023, driven by increasing consumer demand ...
PDF Poultry Farming in Kenya: Breeds, How to Start
The best chicken breeds for eggs in Kenya are the best lay eggs between the 18-80 weeks of your life. You will earn more money by selling 2 kg ex-layered hens for slaughter. They have a good conversion ratio of 6 eggs per kg of used layer mesh. The best types of layers in Kenya are; Kenchic Layers.
Poultry Farming in Kenya: 6 Simple Steps to Success for Newbies
Poultry farming in Kenya can be a rewarding journey. Our comprehensive guide equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed. From understanding the industry to scaling up your farm, we've got you covered. Plus, explore our affordable, secure agricultural land listings to find the perfect foundation for your poultry venture. Your poultry farming success story starts here!
You can make money raising commercial layers
Poultry Feeds. Chicks. 4 (70kg bag) bags of chick mash per month for 17 weeks cost about 4 x 4 x 3,300 = 52,800. Layers. 8 (70 kg bag )bags of layers mash per month for 200 layers. Cost is 2500 x 8 = Kshs 20,000 per month. NB: You need to verify these prices because feed prices have been changing very fast and depend on locality.
Layer Business Plan
Layer business plan - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. The document summarizes a business plan for a layer chicken farm in Afrifarm. It will raise chickens specifically for egg production and sell the eggs commercially both domestically and internationally. The executive summary outlines plans to secure land and facilities and hire qualified staff to ...
PDF Poultry Farming Cost Breakdown 1000 Egg Production Layers for 30 Weeks
BIRD QUANTITY COST PER BIRD (GHC) TOTAL (GHC) IMPORTED Layer 1000 13.00 13000 LOCAL SOURCED Layer 1000 8.00 8000. Cost of Farm Tools & Equipment Estimated for 1000 Birds. Most of the tools and equipment covered in this document have more or less advanced alternatives. This list of tools and equipment, on the other hand, is a suitable starting ...
Commercial Layer Farming In Kenya
June 30, 2020. Layers are egg laying poultry birds for the purpose of commercial egg production. Layer chickens are a special highbred hens, which need to be raised from when they are one day old. They start laying eggs commercially as early as 18 weeks of age. They remain laying eggs continuously till their 72-78 weeks of age.
Welcome to Tuesday Fellowship With Tr. John Cw.
welcome to tuesday fellowship with tr. john cw..02/04/2024

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