In Tanzania, brooder units have found significant success by raising dual-purpose poultry (DPP), a breed that is both more profitable and easier to market to small-scale farmers compared to other types of poultry. This approach has led to stronger business outcomes throughout the value chain, contributing to improved livelihoods and greater economic sustainability. One such brooder unit is led by Dorothi Wisiko from Iringa, who has witnessed firsthand the numerous advantages of raising DPP.
Dorothi explains that she previously raised broilers, which are primarily bred for meat production. However, transitioning to dual-purpose chickens has allowed her to significantly reduce both input and management costs. Broilers often require more intensive care, high-quality feed, and careful monitoring to ensure profitability. In contrast, dual-purpose chickens offer flexibility, as they provide value both for meat and egg production, aligning perfectly with the needs of small-scale farmers in Tanzania.
One of the notable advantages Dorothi highlights is the reliability of her market. By brooding DPP and selling them to local farmers, she has established a consistent customer base. Small-scale farmers appreciate the versatility of dual-purpose chickens, as they can be reared for both meat and eggs, depending on the farmer’s priorities. This dual benefit creates a strong demand for DPP, giving brooder units like Dorothi’s a steady source of income.
What sets DPP apart is their ability to generate multiple income streams. Dorothi explains that she does not sell all her chickens immediately. Instead, she strategically holds onto cockerels to sell later at a higher price when the demand for meat increases. Meanwhile, she keeps hens for egg production, which adds another profitable element to her business. The eggs produced by her hens have become a particularly lucrative product. Dorothi transports her eggs to Ruaha National Park, where she sells them to lodges at premium prices. The tourism industry in the park provides a ready market for high-quality eggs, allowing her to maximize her profits.
The success of dual-purpose poultry highlights the importance of profitability at every level of the value chain. This profitability ensures long-term sustainability for poultry farmers, brooders, and other stakeholders in the industry. With donor funding and direct support from organizations such as the World Poultry Foundation (WPF) now concluded in Tanzania, it has become increasingly critical for every player in the value chain to remain profitable and self-sufficient. Dual-purpose poultry provides a clear pathway to achieving this goal, as its versatility and market demand make it an ideal choice for both commercial brooders and small-scale farmers.
Companies like Silverlands Tanzania Limited have also played a significant role in promoting the adoption of DPP by providing high-quality chicks and technical support to brooder units. Their efforts have helped ensure that dual-purpose poultry meets the needs of the local market while improving the livelihoods of farmers. By focusing on sustainability and profitability, Silverlands and other stakeholders have contributed to strengthening Tanzania’s poultry sector, enabling farmers to thrive without ongoing donor support.
Overall, the adoption of dual-purpose poultry in Tanzania represents a win-win solution for everyone involved in the poultry value chain. Brooder units benefit from reduced input costs and increased market reliability, while small-scale farmers gain access to affordable and versatile chickens that improve their food security and income. As Dorothi Wisiko’s experience demonstrates, the strategic approach of raising DPP can unlock significant economic opportunities, fostering a resilient and sustainable poultry industry in Tanzania. By prioritizing profitability and building strong market connections, Tanzanian poultry farmers are well-positioned to enjoy long-term success and growth.
