East Africa’s poultry industry is undergoing a transformative phase, emerging as a cornerstone for food security, rural livelihoods, and economic development. Rising populations, urbanization, and evolving dietary preferences are driving an unprecedented demand for poultry meat and eggs, positioning the sector as a vital source of affordable protein across the region.
In Kenya, the poultry population is estimated at around 50 million birds, accounting for more than 30% of the livestock sector’s output. Remarkably, nearly 98% of these birds are raised by smallholder farmers, primarily indigenous free-range types. Despite this widespread presence, the industry faces persistent challenges, including escalating feed costs, limited access to improved genetics, inadequate technical knowledge, weak regulatory enforcement, and competition from low-quality imports that undermine local producers.
Addressing these issues, the recent B2 Africa Poultry Masterclass convened Kenyan and Dutch experts to exchange knowledge, innovations, and best practices. The event emphasized solutions in breeding, feed optimization, housing, equipment, and biosecurity. Experts highlighted that technical innovation alone is insufficient; effective policy support, coordinated efforts, and investments in human capital and infrastructure are equally critical for unlocking the sector’s growth potential.
Key challenges and solutions
Feed remains one of the most significant costs for poultry farmers, often representing the largest portion of production expenses. The masterclass showcased innovations in locally sourced feed ingredients, alternative protein sources, and precision feeding techniques to reduce costs while improving productivity. Similarly, access to improved genetics was emphasized as a crucial factor for increasing meat and egg yields, enabling farmers to satisfy domestic demand and remain competitive against imports. Strengthening biosecurity measures was also highlighted as vital to prevent disease outbreaks that can devastate flocks and livelihoods.
Empowering smallholders and women farmers
Smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of East Africa’s poultry industry, require support through training, affordable financing, market access, and modern technology. Women, who play a central role in poultry production, were identified as key beneficiaries of empowerment initiatives, with improved control over production and income generating wider benefits for households and communities.
Investment in infrastructure—including better housing, modern equipment, and cold chain systems—was also recognized as essential for reducing post-harvest losses, improving product quality, and meeting market demands.
International collaboration as a model
The Kenya–Netherlands partnership provides a compelling example of how international expertise can accelerate agricultural transformation. Coordinated approaches across policy development, investment, technology adoption, and capacity building are critical to realizing the sector’s full potential. With strategic support, East Africa’s poultry industry can become more productive, resilient, and commercially viable, benefiting farmers, consumers, and national economies alike.
With continued innovation, collaboration, and investment, the East African poultry sector is poised to become a driving force for food security, rural prosperity, and sustainable economic growth.
