A Survey on broiler production practices of small scale peri- urban farmers in Dema · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author: Manjabire, Sharmaine K
Title: A Survey on broiler production practices of small scale peri- urban farmers in Dema
Abstract: The study focused on the broiler production practices of small scale peri-urban farmers in Zimbabwe particularly Dema area. The study aimed to establish broiler production that may impinge on the welfare of broiler birds with particular reference to housing, space allowance, nutrition’s and feeding , water and protection from elements. The study also aimed at establishing prevalence of broiler poultry diseases in Dema and to establish the constrains to broiler chicken production. The results show that broiler production in the study area was dominated by women. Flock sizes averaged 86 birds (range 25-200). On average, small-scale producers had 4-6 production cycles per year with an interval of 2-3 weeks between batches. The majority of the producers (80%) raised 75 birds per cycle, with 76.7% using concentrate feeding. The average stocking density was high (15birds per m2), and the overall bird mortality recorded was 7.4%. Brooding was mainly done in rooms inside human dwellings in order to protect the young chicks from theft, cold and predation by rodents. The study indicated that stocking density have a significant effect on the broiler welfare and production. Morbidity and mortality have a negative impact on broiler production; coccidiosis and respiratory diseases have a negative impact on broiler production on small scale farmers. The study concluded that broiler production amongst small scale farmers has become a necessary survival weapon and is fundamentally changing the lifestyle of Dema local citizens. Therefore, the study recommends that farmers in Dema to implement bio-security measures and provides well-spaced and favourable conditions that cater the living conditions of broilers.
Date: JUNE 2024
Publisher: BUSE
Keywords: Broiler production; Broiler management practices
Supervisor: Dr P. Chatikobo

Item sets: Department of Crop Sciences

Media: Manjabire Sharmaine K