Zimbabwe’s poultry sector defies El Nino challenges

ZIMBABWE – Despite the harsh realities of an El Nino-induced drought that ravaged southern Africa, Zimbabwe’s poultry sector has emerged remarkably resilient, meeting the national demand for nearly 100 million day-old chicks annually. 

The drought, which devastated crops, pastures, and water supplies, posed significant challenges to agriculture. 

However, innovative strategies by poultry producers have kept the industry afloat, ensuring the local market remains well-supplied with chicken and eggs.

Solomon Zawe, chairman of the Zimbabwe Poultry Association (ZPA), highlighted the sector’s adaptability during an interview with The Herald, a leading news outlet in Zimbabwe. 

He noted that farmers have diversified their feed sources to reduce reliance on drought-affected crops. 

“Stock feed manufacturers have incorporated alternative ingredients like sunflower meal into their production processes. This has enabled us to maintain production levels at the national requirement of 100 million day-old chicks per year,” Zawe explained.

On average, Zimbabwe’s poultry farmers produce eight million day-old broiler chicks monthly, with a quarter allocated to layers. 

This robust output supports steady egg production, ensuring consistent supply to the domestic market. 

The poultry sector’s resilience underscores its critical role in Zimbabwe’s agricultural economy, which is forecasted to grow into a US$13.75 billion industry by 2025.

Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy. In 2021, the sector surpassed its initial target of US$8.2 billion, driven by enhanced productivity across crop and livestock production. 

Looking ahead, the government’s policies aim further to strengthen the industry through value addition and sustainable practices. 

Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, in the 2025 national budget statement, projected a 12.8% recovery for the agricultural sector, rebounding from this year’s 15% contraction.

Zawe expressed optimism about the future of poultry farming in Zimbabwe. 

“In 2025, we aim to sustain positive growth, ensuring adequate chicken and egg supplies for the local market while reducing reliance on imports,” he said.

The government’s Agriculture Food Systems and Rural Transformation Strategy and Agriculture Recovery and Growth Plan will play pivotal roles in guiding these efforts. 

In related news, ReportLinker, a reputable market research firm,  provides that Zimbabwe’s poultry production is projected to experience a slight decline over the next five years. 

By 2028, the country’s output is expected to reach approximately 55,230 metric tons, down from around 55,730 metric tons in 2023. 

This represents a year-on-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) decrease of 0.1%, calling on Zimbabwe to continue exhibiting resilience to prevent any further declines down the line.

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