This article focuses on pig farming in Kenya. Pig farming is one of the best agribusiness ventures in Kenya. Pigs are mainly domesticated for pork which has a high demand in the country.
Breeds Of Pigs In Kenya
- Hampshire.
- Large white.
- Landrace.
- Duroc.
- Saddleback.
- Pietrain.
Factors To Consider Before Venturing Into Pig Farming
- Sufficient supply of fresh water.
- Availability of market for the pigs and products.
- Availability of veterinary services.
- Availability of food for the pigs.
- Suitable land, particularly in a quiet place not near residential areas.
Housing Of Pigs
Pigs can be raised in houses which should be constructed far from residential areas and be divided into pens of different sizes.
The pens should be spacious and have a proper shade. A spacing of 20 X 24m is recommended.
Breeding
Pigs are very good breeders and grow faster compared to other animals. Pigs generally give birth twice a year and can give birth to around 10 to 14 piglets.
Gestation period is 114 days.
Feeding
Feeds account to about 60% of the overall cost of rearing pigs. Feeding is very important for the good growth and productivity of pigs.
Pigs are known omnivores that can feed on meat, kitchen waste, vegetables, grains, fish meal… etc. On average, they eat 2-3kgs of food on a daily basis.
It is also important to provide the pigs with enough water. Adult pigs drink about 20-50 litres of water daily while piglets or young pigs can drink 10 litres of water daily.
Diseases
Just like any other animals, pigs are susceptible to diseases. They can be affected by diarrhea and worm infection. Proper hygiene needs to be practised to prevent some of the diseases.
Deworming and vaccination can also help to prevent some of the diseases that may attack pigs.
Market for Pigs in Kenya
As mentioned earlier, pigs are mainly reared for pork which has a high demand in the country compared to supply. There are very few pork butcheries in the country.
A farmer can directly sell his/her pigs to slaughterhouses or source for contracts to supply pork in restaurants and hotels, butcheries and institutions such as schools.
From a fully grown pig, a farmer can make profits of up to Kshs 30,000.
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