Livestock Industry Foundation for Africa (LIFA), in partnership with the Zoetis Foundation, organized a comprehensive knowledge update training program in Rwanda to strengthen livestock health and productivity. This initiative aimed to empower livestock farmers and industry stakeholders with cutting-edge knowledge and skills, fostering sustainable livestock management practices and improved productivity across the region. The training sessions were strategically scheduled for September 3, 2025, in Nyamata, and September 5, 2025, in Kabuga, ensuring wide accessibility and participation.
The program recorded a total attendance of 297 participants, showcasing a significant engagement from diverse demographics. Female participants constituted a majority, with 171 attendees (57.6%), while male participants numbered 126 (42.4%). In terms of age distribution, the training attracted a balanced representation, with 142 participants (47.8%) below 35 years and 155 participants (52.2%) above 35 years. This diversity highlights the program’s inclusivity and its appeal to both emerging and experienced stakeholders in Rwanda’s livestock sector.
The knowledge update training program emphasized capacity building through interactive sessions, practical demonstrations, and the dissemination of advanced livestock health and nutrition practices. Supported by the Zoetis Foundation, this initiative aligns with their commitment to advancing animal health and supporting sustainable livestock development in Africa. The success of this program further shows the importance of collaborations between development organizations and local stakeholders in addressing the unique challenges of the livestock sector.
Building Sustainable Poultry Housing in Sub-Saharan Africa: By Dr. Stephen Adejoro
Efficient and sustainable poultry housing is a cornerstone of successful poultry farming, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, where environmental and economic challenges are prevalent. Dr. Stephen Adejoro, an expert in livestock innovation, recently shared invaluable insights and strategies to overcome these challenges. His recommendations focus on strategic planning, cost management, and adaptation to local environmental conditions to enhance productivity and ensure long-term sustainability in poultry farming.
Essential Strategies for Sustainable Poultry Housing
1. Land Choice and Site Planning
Dr. Adejoro emphasized the critical role of selecting appropriate land with favorable topography. Proper site planning not only simplifies construction but also enhances the longevity and functionality of poultry houses. Efficient placement of poultry houses on suitable land can improve management practices and overall productivity.
2. Poultry House Orientation
The orientation of poultry houses plays a vital role in creating optimal environmental conditions. Proper alignment maximizes airflow, ensures adequate sunlight exposure, and utilizes natural shade and wind direction to regulate temperature. These adjustments can significantly enhance poultry health and comfort.
3. Cost-Effective Construction
Building poultry houses with a focus on cost efficiency is essential to avoid overcapitalization. Dr. Adejoro highlighted the importance of using locally sourced materials that maintain quality while reducing expenses. Overinvestment in complex infrastructure and advanced technologies can strain farmers’ financial stability without guaranteeing proportional returns.
The Risks of Overcapitalization
While advanced poultry housing may seem attractive, overcapitalization poses several risks, including:
- Clinical and Nutritional Challenges: Overcrowding and inadequate ventilation often lead to stress, higher disease transmission, and nutritional imbalances in poultry.
- Economic Instability: High initial investments result in increased operational costs and can cause financial strain.
- Personnel Dependency: Complex systems require specialized skills to manage, leading to higher training costs and reliance on technical experts.
Strategies to Mitigate Overcapitalization
To counter the challenges posed by overcapitalization, Dr. Adejoro proposed practical solutions:
- Reducing operational costs through regular maintenance of facilities.
- Conducting periodic financial reviews to identify opportunities for cost optimization or debt restructuring.
- Investing in personnel training to ensure efficient operation of existing systems.
Recommendations for Sustainable Poultry Housing
Dr. Adejoro’s report outlined actionable recommendations to design poultry housing systems tailored to local environmental and economic conditions:
- Facilitate Proper Airflow: Incorporate features that promote ventilation and temperature regulation, especially in hot, humid climates.
- Utilize Insulation Materials: Create stable environments for poultry during extreme weather fluctuations.
- Design Scalable Systems: Develop housing structures that can expand alongside farm growth.
- Optimize Natural Resources: Position houses strategically to maximize sunlight and wind patterns.
Conclusion
Dr. Adejoro’s findings discussed the importance of balancing cost-effectiveness, functionality, and environmental adaptability in poultry housing. By addressing overcapitalization and implementing sustainable designs, poultry farmers can significantly boost productivity and profitability. These strategies contribute to broader efforts to strengthen animal food security and promote sustainable agriculture across Sub-Saharan Africa.
