Introduction and Participatory Evaluation of Improved Chicken Production and Management in Bilcilbur District of Jarar Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to introduce and evaluate poultry production and management methods through a participatory approach in the Bilcilbur District of the Jarar Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia. One Pastoral and Agropastoral Research Extension Group (PAPREG) was established with 25 agro-pastoralists, who received practical training regarding modern poultry rearing methods. The group members received both native local breeds and improved Sasso chickens. Significant variations in feed intake and egg output were observed between the improved Sasso breed and native local chickens throughout a six-month laying period, according to the study. Local chickens ate an average of 0.92 0.12 kg of food each week, while Sasso chickens consumed 1.17 0.15 kg. Regarding egg production, the Sasso breed produced an average of 120.7±0.56 eggs per hen during a six-month period, which is around four times more than the 32.1±0.32 eggs that the local breed laid. On the other hand, the study revealed a clear difference in survival rates between local chickens and the Sasso breed under field conditions. The mortality rate for Sasso chickens was much higher, at 25.49%, compared to the 5.17% mortality rate for local chickens. The fact that the majority (76%) of PAPREG members identified increased egg production as a significant benefit suggests that they were aware of the productivity potential of enhanced breeds. Additionally, 60% of survey participants reported increased growth rates, while 48% reported shorter manufacturing cycles. However, only 40% of respondents reported an increase in their household income, indicating that economic benefits may be restricted by considerations such as market access and production costs, despite obvious gains in productivity. Additionally, more than half of respondents (52%) indicated the need for better management techniques, such as better housing, healthcare, and feed systems, which might be difficult for pastoral and smallholder farmers, while 72% of respondents listed excessive feed consumption as a significant drawback. In addition, 36% voiced worries about the enhanced vulnerability of superior breeds to diseases. As a result, context-specific interventions are necessary for the effective scaling of better poultry production methods in pastoral and agropastoral systems. These include improving feed availability, strengthening veterinary and extension services, and empowering farmers via participatory, locally adapted methods.