A transformative poultry training program in South Africa is turning young people into confident and capable poultry farmers, many of whom had no prior experience in the industry. Supported by the World Poultry Foundation (WPF) and facilitated through the KwaZulu-Natal Poultry Institute (KZNPI), this initiative is offering practical, hands-on training in broiler farming that is already changing lives and livelihoods.
The recent cohort consisted of 10 young farmers who completed an intensive training course in broiler production. Notably, over 70% of the participants were women—a significant stride in promoting gender inclusivity within the agricultural sector. Despite many of them entering the program without any background in poultry farming, all of the participants successfully raised and managed their very first flocks. The impact went far beyond poultry knowledge: it improved nutrition at home and provided new sources of income for entire households.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the program was how quickly participants began to apply what they had learned. From basic biosecurity protocols to feeding schedules and disease control, these young farmers took their lessons seriously. For example, one participant successfully reduced chick mortality from a typical 10% down to 6%, simply by following best practices taught during the course. Another has already laid out an ambitious plan to expand their operations from a single broiler unit to three fully functional chicken houses within the next year.
The training covered crucial elements such as proper housing design, hygiene management, vaccination procedures, and marketing strategies—equipping learners not just to raise chickens but to run poultry businesses. Mentorship and follow-up support have also been critical to the success of these new farmers, helping them to troubleshoot issues and stay on track as they grow their operations.
The initiative highlights how investment in agricultural education, particularly in poultry farming, can be a game-changer for rural youth. With South Africa facing high unemployment rates among young people, especially in rural areas, programs like this offer a practical and sustainable solution. Not only do they provide technical skills, but they also build confidence and entrepreneurial thinking.
Participants have expressed a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Many are now planning to reinvest their earnings into expanding their poultry businesses, while others have started sharing knowledge with peers and community members—creating a ripple effect of agricultural empowerment.
This program is more than a training session; it is a stepping stone toward economic independence and community development. By nurturing talent, especially among women and the youth, and equipping those with the tools to succeed, initiatives like these are helping build a resilient and self-sustaining agricultural future.
