A pioneering South African innovation is redefining poultry nutrition and sustainability across the continent. Melokuhle Queeneth Magagula, an MSc graduate in Animal Science from North-West University, has developed an affordable, eco-friendly chicken feed using fermented pods from the Vachellia erioloba (camelthorn) tree. Her research, published in Scientific Reports, offers a game-changing solution for smallholder farmers who struggle with rising feed costs.
Feed accounts for as much as 70% of production expenses in Africa’s poultry sector, leaving many rural farmers dependent on costly commercial feeds. Magagula explored a local alternative by using camelthorn pods—nutrient-rich but limited by high fiber and antinutritional compounds. Through solid-state fermentation using oyster mushrooms, she transformed these pods into a nutrient-enhanced, easily digestible feed ingredient. The process breaks down harmful components, boosts protein value, and supports circular, environmentally friendly farming systems.
In a 12-week feeding trial involving 250 Boschveld chickens, the fermented pods were included at varying levels from 0% to 10%. Birds fed diets with up to 10% inclusion performed just as well as those on commercial feed, with no negative effects on growth, organ health, or blood parameters. Notably, the feed improved the meat’s nutritional quality by reducing harmful saturated fats and increasing beneficial polyunsaturated fatty acids. The best results were observed at the 2.5% inclusion level, which significantly enhanced the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.
Supervising researcher Dr. D.M.N. Mthiyane hailed the study as a major milestone for sustainable poultry production in Africa. By converting locally available biomass into high-quality feed, farmers can reduce reliance on imported maize and soybeans while strengthening food security and supporting indigenous chicken breeds.
Beyond scientific impact, the innovation empowers rural communities, promotes environmental conservation, and demonstrates how African-led research can deliver practical solutions to global agricultural challenges. Magagula hopes her work will inspire broader adoption of locally derived feed resources across the continent.
