Poultry farming is more than just a business, it’s a journey that demands passion, resilience, and a willingness to learn. According to Mr. Michael Ampem Nyarko, a seasoned poultry farmer with over a dozen years of experience, and success in this field, it is not just about having the resources but also about having a genuine interest in the work.
“You must have an interest in doing it,” he said, adding that poultry farming comes with a significant amount of sacrifice. For aspiring farmers, this means being prepared to invest time, effort, and resources into building a sustainable and profitable venture.
In this article, we delve into Mr. Ampem Nyarko’s expert advice and practical insights, offering a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to start a poultry farming business.
The Importance of Passion and Sacrifice
Mr. Ampem Nyarko’s first piece of advice is simple yet profound: “You must have an interest in doing it.” Poultry farming is not a venture to be taken lightly. It requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to make sacrifices. The daily responsibilities of caring for birds, managing feed, preventing diseases, and navigating market dynamics can be overwhelming without a genuine passion for the work. For those who are truly committed, however, the rewards can be substantial.
Learning from the Experts
One of the most effective ways to gain the necessary skills and knowledge is by learning from those who have already walked the path. Mr. Ampem Nyarko strongly encourages new farmers to seek mentorship from experienced poultry farmers.
“Learn from people already in the business to gain the skill,” he advises. This hands-on approach allows beginners to understand the practical aspects of poultry farming, such as bird care, disease management, and market dynamics. By observing and working alongside seasoned farmers, newcomers can avoid common pitfalls and accelerate their learning curve.
Choosing Your Niche: Layers or Broilers?
Poultry farming offers two primary avenues: layers (egg production) and broilers (meat production). Each has its own timeline, requirements, and market dynamics. Layers, for instance, take about six months to mature and start laying eggs, meaning income generation is delayed until the birds reach maturity. Broilers, on the other hand, are ready for the market in just six to eight weeks, offering a quicker return on investment.
Mr. Ampem Nyarko advises farmers to carefully consider their goals and market demand before choosing a niche. “Once you have decided whether you want to do layers or broilers, the next thing, which for me is really crucial, is that you find out whether you have a market for what you want to do,” he says.
Understanding your target audience, whether they prefer white or brown eggs, or whether they are looking for broilers for festive seasons or regular consumption is key to building a sustainable business.
Feeding Your Poultry: The Foundation of Success
Proper nutrition is critical to the health, growth, and productivity of your birds. According to credible sources such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Poultry Hub, a balanced diet for poultry should include the right mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
For the starter feed, which is for chicks (0–6 weeks), a high-protein starter feed (20–24% protein) is essential to support rapid growth and development. This feed is usually in crumble form to make it easier for chicks to consume.
Grower feed for young birds (6–20 weeks): a grower feed with slightly lower protein content (16–18%) is recommended. This helps birds develop strong bones and muscles without excessive weight gain.
Layer feed: For laying hens, a layer feed with 16–18% protein and added calcium is crucial for egg production. Calcium strengthens eggshells, while other nutrients support overall health. The broiler feed, for meat-producing birds, a high-energy broiler feed (20–24% protein) is used to promote rapid weight gain. This feed is typically provided from day one until the birds are ready for market.
Supplements, in addition to commercial feeds: Farmers can incorporate supplements such as vitamins, probiotics, and electrolytes to boost immunity and prevent diseases. For example, coccidiostats are often added to feed to prevent coccidiosis, a common poultry disease.
Mr. Nyarko also noted the importance of calculating feed costs accurately. “For 100 broilers, you may need about 15 bags of 50kg feed over eight weeks,” he explains. “A bag of broiler feed typically costs between GH¢ 380 and 480, depending on the type and quality.”
By understanding these costs, farmers can plan their budgets effectively and ensure their birds receive the nutrition they need to thrive.
Understanding Your Market
Market research is a cornerstone of success in poultry farming. Mr. Ampem Nyarko emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer preferences and market dynamics. For example, in some regions, cultural preferences may influence whether consumers prefer white or brown eggs. In Nigeria, white eggs are less popular, while in Ghana, the color of the eggs may not matter as much.
Similarly, for broilers, it is essential to identify your target customers. Are you supplying restaurants, grilling joints, or sausage producers? Are you focusing on seasonal demand, such as Christmas, or aiming for consistent monthly sales? These factors will determine your production scale, pricing strategy, and overall business model.
Starting Small and Scaling Gradually
Mr. Ampem Nyarko advises beginners to start small and use their initial operations as a learning experience. For layers, starting with 400–500 birds is recommended, while for broilers, 200 birds is a manageable number. This approach allows farmers to understand the intricacies of poultry farming without taking on excessive risk. It also provides an opportunity to refine processes, build confidence, and develop a solid foundation for future growth.
Once you have gained experience and established a foothold in the market, you can gradually scale up to larger operations. “Start with maybe 400 or 500 birds for layers, and probably 200 for broilers,” he suggests. “See how it takes you, and use that as a learning space to learn all the things that you have to learn.”
Financial Planning and Cost Management
Poultry farming requires careful financial planning and cost management. Mr. Ampem Nyarko provides a detailed breakdown of the costs involved, from feed and medications to infrastructure and labor. For example, 100 broilers typically consume about 50 bags of feed over eight weeks, with each bag costing between 380 and 480 units, depending on the type of feed. Additionally, farmers must budget for vitamins, antibiotics, and other medications, which are essential for maintaining the health and productivity of the birds.
By calculating these costs and setting realistic pricing for their products, farmers can ensure profitability and sustainability. “You need to do the math,” Mr. Ampem Nyarko says. “Determine the cost of production, and then decide how much you will sell your birds or eggs for.”
Building the Right Infrastructure
A well-designed poultry house is essential for the health and productivity of your birds. Mr. Nyarko cited the importance of proper lighting, ventilation, and space management. Starting with a small, manageable structure allows you to refine your infrastructure before expanding to larger facilities. “Look for suitable land to put up your structure, and then do your best,”he advises. As your business grows, you can invest in more advanced systems to optimize efficiency and output.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation
Poultry farming is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry. Mr. Nyarko encourages farmers to embrace continuous learning and adaptability. “Learn all the things that you don’t learn in school,”he says, hitting on the value of practical knowledge and real-world experience. By staying informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices, farmers can remain competitive and resilient in the face of challenges.
Starting a poultry farming business is a journey that requires passion, dedication, and strategic planning. According to Mr. Michael Ampem Nyarko, success in this field is not just about having the resources but also about having a genuine interest in the work. By learning from experienced farmers, understanding market dynamics, starting small, and carefully managing finances, aspiring farmers can build a successful and sustainable poultry enterprise.
Mr. Ampem Nyarko’s insights serve as a valuable guide for anyone looking to venture into poultry farming. With the right mindset, preparation, and commitment, poultry farming can be a profitable and fulfilling venture. As he aptly puts it.
Key Tips
1. Develop a Genuine Interest and Be Prepared to Sacrifice
2. Learn from Experienced Farmers
3 .Provide the right feeds for your birds
4. Understand Your Market and Consumer Preferences
5 .Start Small and Scale Gradually
6. Plan Your Finances and Manage Costs Effectively
