Feed shortages have long been a challenge for poultry farmers across Africa, hindering productivity and growth in the sector. Recognizing the critical role of poultry in food security, governments across the continent are taking strategic steps to address this issue. These initiatives vary by country, reflecting diverse agricultural capacities, climates, and economic priorities.
Nigeria’s government has prioritized agricultural growth through the Agricultural Promotion Policy (APP). Feed production, particularly for poultry, has been a priority, with subsidies for raw materials such as maize and soybeans. The Central Bank of Nigeria established intervention funds to assist feed millers and poultry producers, assuring inexpensive feed. Programs like the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme have also encouraged maize farming, a vital ingredient in poultry feed, by providing loans and inputs to smallholder farmers.
Kenya’s government has collaborated with international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to combat feed shortages. A major focus has been on promoting drought-resistant crops such as sorghum and millet, which can be utilized in chicken feed. Furthermore, efforts to produce alternate feed sources, such as insects and agricultural byproducts, have gained traction. Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture is also seeking to develop feed production cooperatives to help small-scale chicken growers cut costs.
South Africa, one of the continent’s top chicken producers, has used its relatively mature agricultural industry to combat feed shortages. The government has encouraged local manufacturing of feed ingredients through subsidies and tax exemptions. It has also pushed the use of modern feed processing technology to increase efficiency. Partnerships between the government, the commercial sector, and research institutes have facilitated improvements in feed formulation, with a focus on nutrient optimization and cost reduction.
Ethiopia has made progress in alleviating feed shortages by including chicken feed production into its overall agricultural transformation strategy. The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency has sought to enhance the supply chain for important feed ingredients including maize and soybeans. Furthermore, the government has encouraged the establishment of small-scale feed mills in remote areas, lowering transportation costs and increasing access for poultry producers.
In Ghana, the government’s “Planting for Food and Jobs” program has indirectly aided the chicken industry by increasing maize and soybean output, both of which are needed for feed. Recognizing the importance of specialist interventions, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has implemented tailored support for feed millers and poultry producers. This includes finance and capacity-building initiatives to improve feed production efficiency.
Uganda has implemented novel techniques to address feed shortages. The government has collaborated with local colleges to study and encourage the use of alternative feeds such cassava, sweet potato vines, and fishmeal. Furthermore, subsidies for maize and soybean production have been offered, as well as incentives for private investors to build feed mills. Efforts have also been undertaken to improve the regulatory framework for feed quality, ensuring farmers have access to economical, nutritionally balanced feeds.
In Zambia, the government has prioritized maize cultivation, recognizing its usefulness as chicken feed. Small-scale farmers have received seed and fertilizer subsidies as part of the Farmer Input Support Program. Furthermore, the government has promoted the use of agro-industrial byproducts like as maize bran and sunflower cake in feed production, thereby lowering reliance on imported feed materials.
Tanzania has concentrated on boosting its poultry value chain by promoting feed production and distribution. Initiatives include the construction of feed production clusters and collaborations with private investors to stimulate local manufacturing. The government has also encouraged the planting of high-yield maize varieties and sponsored agricultural extension programs that train farmers in sustainable feed production techniques.
Across Africa, addressing feed shortages requires a multifaceted approach. Governments are increasingly recognizing the need for collaboration with private sector actors, research institutions, and international partners. These initiatives not only aim to solve immediate challenges but also to build resilient poultry sectors that can sustainably meet the growing demand for food in the region.
