business plan for pig farming in kenya

Pig Farming in Kenya: Start Making Profits in 6 Steps!

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Commercial pig farming in Kenya is one of the most lucrative business ventures. The people who have started pig farming in Kenya are now producing high quality meat and making good profits.

Pigs can be raised in both small or large scale commercial venture for providing food and nutrition to the family and total country or just for making high profit.

Pig farming is relatively simple as compared to other forms of livestock farming. Here we are describing the benefits and step by step process of starting pig farming business in Kenya.

Table of Contents

Advantages of Pig Farming in Kenya

According to the condition of Kenya, pig farming has many advantages. The main benefits of pig farming business in Kenya are listed below.

• Pigs grow faster than other livestock animals and reproduction system takes less time.
• They grow faster by converting more nutrient/energy into protein.
• You can feed your pigs almost everything including roughage, kitchen garbage, agricultural waste etc. for reducing feeding cost.
• You can fulfill your daily family nutrition demands by setting up small scale pig farming in Kenya.
• You can start raising pigs with a very little investment. As pigs grow very fast, so you can turn your farm into a commercial stage within a very short time.
• Sow give birth of piglets twice a year and each time they produce about 10 piglets. And the gestation period is also very less (not more than 115 days).
• Pig farming in Kenya has a good return of investment (ROI) ratio.
• The weather and geographical location of Kenya is suitable for starting pig farming business.
• Pig meat has a huge demand in the market of Kenya.
• Great source of employment for the unemployed people. Even the unemployed educated people can also start commercial pig farming business in Kenya.
• You can also start raising pigs along with your current profession.

Starting Pig Farming in Kenya

Setting up commercial pig farming in Kenya is not so easy. There are may things to consider and many tasks to do. However, here I am describing shortly the steps for starting pig farming business in Kenya.

Step 1. Selecting Suitable Farm Land

Selecting a suitable land is very important for starting pig farming in Kenya. A suitable land with availability of all types of necessary facilities ensure proper growth, good health, proper marketing and maximum profit from pig farming business.

Determine the area and size of farm land according to the number of pigs in your farm. While selecting lands for pig farming in Kenya, consider the followings.

• Try to select a calm and quiet place far from the residential areas.
• Ensure sufficient supply of fresh water in the farm area. A water source like lake, pond, river etc. will be effective.
• The selected area will be very near from the market. So that you can easily sell your products and buy necessary things from the market.
• Consider availability of veterinary service near your farm land.
• Good transportation system.
• Low cost feeding elements help to reduce food cost. While selecting land consider this.
• Try to select land in village areas. Because in village areas, you can easily find cheap labor, feeding elements and lands.

Step 2. Select Suitable Breeds

Select proper pig breeds according to your production scale. You can select both local and hybrid pigs for commercial pig farming business.

Generally Large White, Landrace, Yorkshires, Duroc, Hampshire etc. are most profitable pig breeds in Kenya. While choosing proper breeds for your business, consider the following signs in the pigs.

• A pair of bright eyes.
• Glossy coat.
• Alert and responsive to it’s surrounding environment.
• Good temperament.
• Good appeal to food.
• Easy and normal movement.
• Free from lameness or any other unnatural signs.
• Avoid purchasing aggressive pig.
• While purchasing, ask the producer about their health information, production history and other records.

Step 3. Housing

Pigs are very strong and they need sturdy living quarters. Air circulation and shade are vital. Pigs are very sensitive to temperature.

Generally, adult pigs are very sensitive to hot temperature and the piglets are affected adversely by cold temperature. So, controlled temperature can help to maximize the growth and production.

Keeping the piglets with their mother in a separate house is a good idea. Separate the feeding and bedding place and try to keep the house neat and clean always.

Step 4. Feeding

Feeding is the most important part of pig farming business. Because, good and nutritious food always ensure good production. Pigs can eat and consume both meat and grains.

You can feed your pigs almost everything that includes roughage, kitchen garbage, agricultural waste, stalk from beverage companies etc. You can also feed your pigs cooked table scraps, vegetables etc.

Corn is the main food of pigs. But, having a diet with protein from soybeans or cooked meat will be effective for pigs. Vitamins and other supplements also help to grow faster.

Piglets need higher protein contained food than the adult pigs. Along with sufficient nutritious food, always serve them sufficient amount of fresh and clean water according to their daily demands. Sufficient fresh water helps to keep the pig healthy and this directly impact the profit from pig farming business.

Step 5. Breeding

Pig breeding is very easy. Pure breeding, cross breeding, out breeding and in breeding is the common types of pig breeding models. Most of the pig breeds has a less gestation period of not more than 115 days. Sow produce piglets twice a year and about 10 piglets each time.

Step 6. Marketing

There is a huge demand of pig products in the market. Pig products such as pork, bacon, sausages etc. are very popular throughout the whole Kenya. So, you don’t need to worry about marketing your products if you want to start pig farming business. Sell your pigs in your nearest local market when they gain marketing weights.

Commercial pig farming is very popular and profitable business in Kenya and it is one of the worthwhile activity to engage in. The demand is very high and the market is growing rapidly. But the supply is still limited. So, there is a great opportunities of starting commercial pig farming in Kenya. Good luck and may God bless you!

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12 thoughts on “pig farming in kenya: start making profits in 6 steps”.

Would love to begin pig farming like yesterday

Try to learn practically from existing farmers. Having practical knowledge is more important than bookish knowledge. Good luck!

Am very interested in starting a commercial pig farming, please contact me 0719514977

Hello , I want to start pig farming .

I should try this farming, it’s really sounds good

I am really interested in pig farming. Can you recommend a farmer who I can talk to. Thank you.

Please keep your contact details here so that interested people can contact you. Good luck!

i would like to start pig farming

Thanks for the article, it’s informative as well as educative. I may want to start this someday but in small scale.

I will like to have practical knowledge in piggery production,pls which of the farms could be of help?

Thanks for the information. Iam considering venturing into the business.

thank you for this diferent types of pig you mantioned so am in in Rwanda and also am interested by this so what are the types among those one is more profit full than ather

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Complete Guide to Pig farming in Kenya

Pork and other pig products account for 38% of meat products consumed worldwide.  This gives Kenyans the opportunity to get into this in-demand product and make some profits. 

One of the questions potential pig farmers ask is whether pig farming is profitable in Kenya. 

Our answer is yes. Pig farming is profitable in Kenya if you are prepared to handle the challenges that come with pig farming and grow your pigs to reach the required market standards at minimal costs. 

In this article, we look at what needs to be done to be able to make pig farming in Kenya a worthwhile venture. 

Benefits of Pig farming

According to the Chinese zodiac, pigs are seen to represent happiness, fortune, and virility. In as much as you are not Chinese, pigs could as well bring you fortune and happiness in your life. There are a lot of farmers out there making a good income from pig farming and I really hope this article brings you closer to being one of them. Some of the benefits include; 

• Pigs have very high feed conversion efficiency. This is especially important if you do not have a lot of animal feeds in your farm. Pigs gain more live weight from a given weight of feed than the other livestock. 
• Also, pigs can consume a wide variety of locally available feeds such as grains, forages, and non-meat kitchen leftovers and convert them into valuable nutritious meat. 
• Pigs are very fertile with a shorter generation interval than other livestock. A sow can be farrowed twice in a year. It can give birth to up to 12 piglets in each farrowing. 
• Pig farming is not capital intensive on buildings and tools. Locally available materials can easily be utilized to save on costs. 
• Pigs manure can be utilized as fertilizer for agriculture farms. You can use pig manure to ward off rodents that may be attacking your crops. Also, you can use pig manure as a free source of fish food.
• Pig farming provides quicker returns than other livestock such as cows. This is because it achieves its marketable weight in a period of 6-8 months. Other livestock may require years to attain market maturity. 
• There is a high demand from domestic and also the export market for pig products such as sausages, pork, and bacon. Am sure you have seen the white ‘smokie’ vendors selling pork products in almost every estate. Pork products are also used as the main ingredient in many pet food products in supermarkets.

Factors to consider before getting into pig farming

Before beginning a successful pig farming venture, there are some things you should look at before actualizing your plans. Some factors I’ll talk about here could be the make or break of your investment. Ignoring some factors may lead to untold losses in terms of time and money. Some of these factors include;

• Availability of Water

Water availability is a factor that comes first. Pigs consume 10-50litres of water in a day. Any shortage will lead to reduced productivity, diseases, or even death. You should ensure that there is enough water supply that will serve your herd. I recommend a 3-day water reserve at all times be available to the pigs. Water is also essential to maintain sty hygiene to prevent the spread of any diseases.

Pigs are omnivores hence you can mix their feeds with a range of other ingredients to produce a balanced diet. The availability or affordability of such feeds hugely influences the profit margins you intend to achieve in the running of your pig farming business. If possible, you are advised to plant your own forage and try as much as possible to practice feed mixing yourself as ready pig mix feeds are quite costly.

You are going to require a strong built-in structure to house your pigs. The house should be divided into pens of various sizes depending on the growth stage of the pigs. Any overcrowding in the pig pens will result in losses due to fast-spreading diseases such as diarrhea. The sty should also be easy to clean in order to maintain hygiene at all times.

You can also get into the pig business by starting a breeding farm. However, if you are a new farmer, you should first start by rearing small pigs to help you learn about the desirable pig traits and the nitty gritties of pig breeding. You will also need a lot of capital in order to purchase very high-grade pigs and high quality feeds to kickstart your business.

Pig housing

Housing is key in the growth and development of your pigs. The location of the pigsty is also important. The golden rule is, a comfortable pig is a healthy pig and a happy farmer. Some factors you should consider in terms of location are;

• Your pigsty should be away at least 8-10metres from your house unless a pig’s bleat is music to your ears.
• The site should be elevated to avoid flooding by rainwater. 
• Your chosen site should be close to your electricity and water source and should also enable you to easily collect manure.

Your sty could be constructed with wood or cement depending on the availability of the resources. Cement floors could make it easier for you to clean but it may be colder for younger piglets to stay. This may require you to purchase sawdust for cubicles that will host piglets. Other considerations you should look into include;

• Ventilation and ample shade. This means your pig’s sty should not smell and should not be damp. The same way you would not want to live in a smelly and damp place.
• The sty should be split into different pens for every stage of the production cycle. This will help you reduce fights over food and water and therefore happier pigs.
• The orientation of the sty should be in a north-south direction to shield the pigs from harsh weather like strong sun and rain.
• If you choose to build using cement, ensure the floor is not smooth to avoid slipping. It should also be slightly sloping to ensure easy cleaning with water.

Space requirements for pigs

Depending on the stage of growth of your pigs, the optimum space required for healthy pig development varies. When looking at the spacing of the pigs’ pens, divide the pigs into five categories. If you have many pigs, you can build more pens for pigs within a category to reduce competition and fights among the pigs. These categories include,

• Weaner piglets – Each piglet requires 0.3-0.5 square metres of space. The place should be warm to protect the health of the young piglets.
• Fattening pig- These are pigs that are being prepared to be sold for slaughter. Each pig will require 0.5-1.0 square metres of space. Ensure that you place enough feeding troughs depending on the number of pigs in the pen.
• Breeding boars- These are pigs specially selected to improve the quality of your herd through breeding. Each boar will require 6-8 square metres of space. The pen should be particularly strong and high to avoid ‘prison breaks’ to gilts and sows that are on heat.
• Pregnant sows- each sow will require 1.5-2.0 square metres of space. If possible, each sow should be allotted its own pen to maintain a conducive quiet environment.
• Lactating sows- Lactating sows require up to 6sq metres of space depending on the number of piglets lactating. You should allot each lactating sow an individual pen with provisions for a farrowing pan, a piglets nest, creep feed for the piglets. Due to the fragile state of the piglets, you should also add provisions for heating and cooling the pen. 

Pig Breeds In Kenya

You might have seen various coloured pigs roaming around in your village shopping center and struggled to identify the specific breed. This may be difficult because the stray pigs may have bred over the years with other several breeding meaning most of the roaming pigs are crossbreeds. 

However, for confined pigs, it is easier to identify the breed due to its characteristics and colour. Some of the most common pig breeds in Kenya include;

• Large white  

This is the first choice of farmers in Kenya. This is because of its unique features. Their head is usually moderately long. They have erect ears and their face is slightly dished. They usually have longer legs compared to other breeds. Its robust body can withstand different climatic conditions and performs very well. The large white breed sows are known to produce between 10-12 piglets. They are however prone to sunburn due to their white skin and therefore unsuitable for outdoor farming.

• Duroc-Jersey

  This breed has a hard skin and a thick fur that is reddish in colour. It possessed good attributes for both growing and rearing. In addition to that, they produce very good bacon. Its forequarters are light and it has small lop ears. The Duroc-Jersey can survive in both extreme cold and wet climates making them preferable if you live in a high altitude region. Also, pigmentation makes it an ideal outdoor pig as it is not vulnerable to sunburns.  Its downside is that they produce less litter size than the other breeds meaning the growth of your herd will be slower. 

• Landrace pigs

The Landrace breed is known for their white skin, forward drooping ears, and their straight snout. They do well in both confined and outdoor farms. This makes them great for a farmer starting to practice who still has not established the structures. Its sows produce a large litter size thus making them ideal if you are looking to expand your pig litter. They are also good for the production of bacon and pork since they are weaned at a higher weight in comparison to other breeds.

This breed is usually used to crossbreed with others in order to improve their litter. However, their lack of skin pigmentation makes them vulnerable to sunburn.

The Hampshire, originally from the US, are large, hardy, black, and white pigs with very lean pork. They usually have a black head and shoulders. They are also distinguished for their large and upright ears.

This breed is usually ideal for farmers who are starting pig farming as they usually have large litters and make excellent mothers. This breed is also known for its fast growth rate. Many farmers prefer using this breed as the sire of crossbred pigs for bacon and pork production.

Other pig breeds available in Kenya are Maxgrow and Camborough

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Breeding your pigs

Breeding your pigs enables you to improve your pig grade to one of better quality. A good boar and gilt contribute greatly to the quality of your herd. While selecting a good boar or gilt for breeding, you should consider:

• The boar should be healthy with sound feet, uniform back curves, and of good length.
• Your chosen boar should have at least 12 neatly placed rudimentary teats so as to pass this genetic trait to the piglets.
• You should select the boar at about 4weeks just before castration. Select the biggest piglet from the entire litter.
• Ensure your boar is at least 8months old before you put it to the task.
• For gilts, ensure it has at least 12 teats so that it can be able to accommodate a large litter.
• You should select your gilts at the weaning period while it’s about 5-6months of age. Consider the fastest-growing ones as it will consume less feed per weight gain.
• Your gilt of choice should not have any defects such as inverted teats, supernumerary and fat deposits at the bottom of its teats.

Heat detection in pigs

Detection of heat in pigs is very essential. Early detection will enable you to source the boar in time to mate the gilt. This is because you only have a 3-day window during which the gilt is on heat and can mate.

Some of the early heat signs include;

• The gilt will be restless.
• There will be a white discharge from your gilt’s genitalia
• The gilts genitalia will swell and turn red.

The second stage during the three day period is the service period phase. This phase will last for about 40-60 hours. Some signs you will see in your gilt includes;

• Gilt’s genitalia will become less swollen and have less colour
• There will be a slimy mucus discharge from your gilt’s genitalia
• The gilt will have an urge to mount or want to be mounted by others.
• The gilt will be more accepting of weight on its back.  The gilt will remain standing when weight is applied on its back.

The third and final phase is the post-oestrus-period stage. Some of the signs that the gilt or sow is at this stage include;

• The gilt/sow will not stand when pressure is applied to its back.
• The swelling on the gilt’s genitalia will disappear.

How to induce heat

Sometimes, your gilt may have matured but may not show any signs of heat. If this happens, do not panic. There are a few things you can do to try and induce heat in the gilt or sow. Some things you can do include;

• Try gently stroking the gilt’s genitalia with a freshly cut pawpaw stalk in the morning for
• You can as well make use of the pheromones in the boar’s urine by spraying the gilt’s pen with boar urine every morning.
• You can also try taking the sow to the boar or if the pen is small, house the sow in a pen next to the boar.

Take note that you should always take the gilt to the boar. That way, the boar will be more comfortable to mount thereby increasing chances of success.

Care for new piglets

Newborn piglets are very fragile and vulnerable to many risks. It is especially important to take good care of them to ensure the survival of the whole litter.

Caring for newborn piglets is usually a huge challenge for every farmer, even the experienced ones. However, do not worry. Here are some tips to help you care for your newborn piglets.

• A few minutes after birth, the navel of each piglet should be dabbed with an iodine solution to prevent tetanus and inflammation.
• You should also ensure that the piglets are able to suckle as soon as possible after birth. The weaker pigs should be assisted if necessary.  Suckling encourages the sow to let her milk down. Just like humans, the first milk is rich in colostrum and it protects the piglets against diseases. 
• If the sow’s milk appears to be little, you can add cows milk to supplement. You can also use mashed bean porridge with a little sugar to feed the piglets.

Teeth trimming 

It is necessary to trim the piglet’s teeth to keep them from biting and injuring the udder which may lead to infection. Piglets are born with very sharp teeth which may in turn cause pain to their mother and may prevent the sow from allowing the piglets to suckle.

Now, you don’t have to be a dentist to do this easy task. All you need is a teeth trimmer and strong guts to go ahead. You should then hold the pig in a comfortable position and roll back its tongue. Using the teeth trimmer, cut off only the top points of the teeth. Always be careful not to injure the piglets.

Piglet Anaemia

Pigs are born with very little iron, (about 50mg) in their body. They then get about 1-2 mg/day from the sow’s milk while they require 7mg during the first seven days. This deficiency causes the piglets to become weak and pale thereby slowing down their growth.

To prevent anemia, give the piglets oral iron paste within 24hours of birth. Also, you should give the piglet iron injections on day 3 and day 10 after birth preferably at the neck muscle.

Heating for the Piglets

If the piglets are born during a cold season, it may be necessary to heat the room to help keep the piglets warm to prevent pneumonia attacks. You can heat an area within the pen using an infrared lamp or a charcoal stove. This helps keep the piglets warm and comfortable.

Feeding program for piglets

Two days after birth, you should feed the piglets five times each day for a period of 10 minutes. On the third and on the fourth day, you should reduce the number of times you feed the piglets to four times a day, and after that 3 times a day. 

After 2 weeks, increase the amount of milk at each meal while slowly decreasing the number of meals per day. 

Slowly shift to more solid food. The piglets should be able to take regular feed when they attain the age of 3 weeks.

Creep feeding piglets

One week old piglets should have high protein feeds available to them at all times. This should be in an area where the sow can’t access.  Creep feeding is very economical as the feed conversion rate of young piglets is very high. 

In addition to that, it helps the piglets to get used to feeding while they are still young.

Weaning Piglets

Weaning is usually a struggle for the piglets. Equipping yourself with information on the nutrient requirements, health, and growth patterns for modern breeds of early-weaned pigs is very important. 

Modern methods keep changing daily and it is important to keep yourself updated.  Early weaning of piglets at 2-3weeks helps increase sow productivity through the probable increase in the number of litters per sow per year.

Nutritional requirements for Pigs

Good nutrition is important to a pig’s health, growth rate, success in its reproduction, and longevity. Unless you are keeping your pigs as ‘pets’ then nutrition is a key factor to ensure a return on your investments when selling your pigs or pork.

Energy intake is the first determining factor determining the growth of pigs and the amount of milk produced by lactating cows. Protein (lysine) is the second determining factor for the growth of your herd or the amount of milk production in lactating sows.

Boars reap a lot from sufficient protein during their growth. You may need to limit the daily feed intake to avoid excess weight gain as age.

You should feed a balanced diet to your growing pigs from the weaning stage through to the point of slaughter to ensure that pigs grow rapidly. Also, a balanced diet helps to ensure that the meat composition and quality, especially for the export market. 

Minerals and vitamins in a balanced feed will contribute greatly in ensuring that your animals stay strong and healthy throughout their growing stage. Any sudden changes in the diet like too much fat and excessive undiluted milk can cause diarrhoea.

Diseases affecting pigs 

A sick pig should be taken care of immediately so as not to spread disease or die which will cause you untold losses. Some of the general symptoms a sick pig may display are;

• The pig may loose appetite for food and water.
• Its breathing may increase rapidly as an indication of a fever.
• A change of pigmentation as white pigmented pigs may become reddish.
• The pigs’ ears appear droopy ears or ears pointing downwards.
• Their eyes may become dull eyes.

Diseases can be caused by parasites which can either be internal or external. The most critical internal parasites (worms) that may attack your pigs include;

• Roundworms  (Ascaris lumbricoides) 

They are found in the stomach and consume food from as the pig eats. This deprives the pig off nutrients, therefore, makes them thin. Giant roundworms are very common especially the tropical climates that are warm and moist. They are about 6 inches on average. Pigs become infected after ingesting eggs present in contaminated soil or forage grown in infected soils.

When infected, your pig will loose weight and display symptoms such as anaemia and anorexia.

The best way to prevent roundworms is periodic deworming. If you run a completely organic farm setup, then you can use herbs such as moringa which is said to be able to kill intestinal worms.

These are flat and long ribbon-like creatures found globally. They don’t have a digestive tract so they absorb food through their skin.  They especially absorb folic acid and vitamin B-12. 

Some of the symptoms an infected pig displays include poor growth and a swollen belly. The pig may also develop a rough grey hair coat. The best way to prevent attacks by tapeworms is to regularly deworm your herd.

You should take care when preparing pork as your food as tapeworms cause pork measles in pigs which can infect humans’ as well through undercooked meat. 

Some of the external parasites include;

These are flies that cause diseases by laying eggs on wounds on the skin of the pig. The eggs will then hatch into larvae. These larvae will then feed on the pigs’ flesh and develop into pupates. 

These pupate eventually fall off when they are mature thereby creating more wounds. An infected wound will look soggy and dirty and the edges will be covered with a grey mass of eggs. To treat such wounds, you will need to wash the infected wound daily with disinfectant and apply insecticides on the edges to discourage the flies. 

To prevent a myiasis infestation, you need to be careful when doing ear notching, tail docking, and castration. Use disinfectants on the wounds formed by these processes to prevent the laying of eggs on the wounds.

This disease is caused by mites that live on the skin. They are found mostly on the head and around the eyes, nose, or ears. 

They form lesions on the skin which may worsen to become hyperkeratosis and the epidermal debris will start exfoliating. The infected pig will become restless and it may itch severely. 

In severe cases, anaemia will develop in piglets and the pigs may even die. It is so ironic how a small mite can kill such a huge animal. That is why it is very important to prevent its infestation. 

You can prevent this disease by washing the sows and boars. This may seem unorthodox but it is the first line of defense. General cleanliness plays a very major role here. Also, you should strive to maintain a good health program and balanced animal nutrition to reduce the severity and spread of the disease.

Other diseases that can attack pigs include;

• Foot and Mouth disease (FMD)

This is a highly contagious viral disease that attacks hoofed animals, such as pigs, goats, and cows. Its symptoms include blisters on areas like the udder and teats which rapture within a day. 

There may also be frothy saliva around the mouth. The animal will also display signs of severe lameness and fever. 

Contact your vet IMMEDIATELY when you see such signs in your herd. This disease spreads fast and could easily wipe out the animals within your community. The best way to prevent FMD is through vaccination.

• Swine Fever

This disease is symptomized by lesions on the body, reddening of the ears and skin, and incoordination of the limbs. This is a very dangerous disease as it has a 95-100% mortality rate. 

Treatment should be done immediately once you notice the symptoms. The best way to prevent this disease is through vaccination of the herd and disinfection of the affected pens if an infestation occurs.

Though uncommon, it is associated with contaminated feed containing meat. This is why it is advisable to keep your pigs on a non-meat diet if possible.

Pigs will display symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, fever, oedema, and swelling of the neck region. Fortunately, this disease can be treated by using antibiotics as directed by a qualified vet.

Any carcasses of pigs that died from this disease should be burned immediately to tame the spread of this bacteria.

The Market for Pigs

Currently, there are no live pig markets in Kenya unlike other livestock such as cows and goats which are common. 

This should however not discourage you from delving into pig rearing. The pig market is huge and is still growing with many people taking up pork as a delicacy.

Some of the huge markets for pigs (pork) include;

• Farmers Choice Limited

They are the biggest abattoir in Kenya. The company purchases pork according to their cold dressed weight after the slaughter of live pigs. They supply both the local and international markets with pork products such as sausages, ham, and bacon. You never know. The pig you reared could be someone’s dinner in Europe or Asia.

• Various slaughterhouses within the country

There are many pig slaughterhouses and slaughter slabs spread out within the country. These slaughterhouses supply pork to many pork butcheries in urban estates and entertainment joints where pork is a fast-moving delicacy.

• Pig Breeding business

You may also decide to enter into the pig breeding business as it has a niche market. You can look for the best breeds to rear and sell breeding services to local farmers who may want to improve their herd. This is still a relatively new concept which you may decide to venture into.

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Excellent info. Pls provide recommended Designed Pig Pens

Thanks for the very… Thanks for the very comprehensive information. Could you also provide an estimate of the costs to maturity when using commercial feeds. Also, which are the best locations for the pig farming. Is Matuu, Thika, or Juja conducive?

i am a new and young farmer… i am a new and young farmer and have found very useful info on this forum.

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Can Pig Farming in Kenya Make You Rich?

Is pig farming profitable in Kenya? Commercial pig farming for bacon and pork is one of the fastest-growing agribusiness value chains in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

Pork farming can make you a millionaire if done right. The pigs are fast maturing and produce high-quality meat and fat. In this post, we will do a simple cost-benefit analysis (CBA) for pig rearing to determine if it is worth your efforts.  

Kenya slaughtered an average of 0.4 million heads of pig each year between 2016 and 2020. The per capita consumption was around 13kg per person each year and it’s expected to double by the year 2030. The aggregate supply in the year 2020 was 27 Metric tons.

Best areas to rear pigs in Kenya

Can pig farming make you rich in kenya, where to get the best information on pork farming, tips for profitable pig farming in kenya, resources on pig farming in kenya.

Small intensive pig farming is common in the central (Kiambu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga & Nyeri, Meru), Nairobi, North Rift (Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia), Narok and Eastern Kenya (Machakos).

Smallholder-raising systems are common in Busia, Bungoma, and parts of Kisumu. Northeastern and Coast zones have the least pig populations in the country.

Why is pig farming profitable? Pig farming can make you a millionaire if done right. The pigs are fast maturing and produce high-quality meat and fat. If you are a beginner in pig farming, you need to estimate the profits for your pig farm. You can do a simple cost and benefit analysis (CBA) or feasibility study to determine if it is worth your efforts.  

Your CBA will compare your net profits by getting the difference between the total revenues and the total costs using the formula below.

Net Revenue (NR) = Total Revenue (TR) – Total cost (TC)

where the TC is Total cost = Total variable cost (TVC) + Total fixed cost (TFC)

Other analyses you can consider are the Gross margin and the Benefits-cost ratio determined as follows

Gross Margin (GM) = TR – TVC

Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) = TR/TC

The sample below is an investment plan for rearing a herd of 22 pigs for 6-9 months. While you can use it for planning purposes, you will need to update it with actual figures once you implement your program.

How much does a pig sell in Kenya?

You can make a Total revenue (TR) of Ksh 573040 from your pig farming in Kenya over a period of 6 months. It translates to you making Ksh 1 million each year if you can manage 2 herds.  You will get this money by selling

• 20 fattened mature pigs as porkers or baconers at a price of Ksh 23655 each
• 2 growers (pure breed boars and sows) to other farmers at a price of Ksh 50,000 each
• 102 empty bags at a price of Ksh 30 each
• 35 bags of pig manure at a price of Ksh 70 each

Where to sell pigs in Kenya?

Kenya has 2 market types for pigs. The formal and informal.

In the informal market, farmers sell grower and mature pigs to slaughter slabs, slaughterhouses, or other farmers in their vicinity. Brokers buy live pigs from farms or you can opt to sell yours at a major pork center that operates near the three pig slaughterhouses in the Country. The four major buyers of pigs in Kenya are; Farmer’s Choice Limited, Ndumboni Farm Slaughter House, Lyntano Slaughter House, and the Kabati Slaughter House

If you prefer contract farming, consider working with the Farmers Choice Ltd. It is the largest pig abattoir, processor, and exporter in Kenya. You will lock in a price and enjoy extension services and quality products from them.

Other farmers opt to slaughter and sell pig meat to their neighbors.

What is the cost of starting a pig farm in Kenya?

How much do you need to start a pig business in Kenya? You will need Ksh 50,000 to construct a pigsty that can accommodate 30-60 pigs. Such a pig house is constructed to international standards allowing for the highest drainage standards. Each unit will have good drainage, feeding, and watering troughs. If you are looking for hygiene and reduced cost of production, watering nipples should be an option.

Such a modern pig farm will allow you to feed and attend to them from a central corridor. It will have bio-security and disinfection infrastructure such that you reduce infections on the farm.

What are the best pig breeds in Kenya?

Kenya has both exotic and local pig breeds that perform well.

The exotic pig breeds in Kenya are the Large white, Landrace, and the Durocs.  They mature fast and grow larger than the local breeds. The three of the most valuable exotic pig breeds in Kenya are summarized in the table below.

The local breeds are the many in-breeds which are crossbreeds between the exotic crossbreeds and crossbreeds from the neighboring country of Uganda. The black and white coat-colored pig breed is one of the most popular local breeds of the Landrace and Duroc pig.

Where to buy the best pig breeds in Kenya?

To stock your pig farm, source for breeding stock from Farmers Choice or a commercial contracted pig farmer near you. You will need a pure-bred boar and a pregnant gilt or sow. The cost of a mature boar ranges from Ksh 40,000 while a pregnant sow can go for Ksh 60,000. The cost of the 3 pigs to start your farm will cost you around Ksh 160,000 assuming an average cost of Ksh 50,000 for each.  

The gestation period for pigs is 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days. Your 2 pregnant sows will give birth to at least 22 piglets raising your community herd to 25. It takes between 6 and 9 months for pigs to mature in Kenya. You will now have 22 baconers or porkers to sell.

Besides, you can buy grower pigs or weaners for fattening from your neighbors. They go at around Ksh 5000. A herd of 22 would cost you Ksh 110,000.

Which are the best commercial feeds for your pigs?

To grow high-quality pigs, stick to commercial pig feed only. However, you can supplement your feeding with vegetables and other homemade pig feed made from maize bran and wheat jams to cut your costs.

The table below is the recommended feeding program for pigs in Kenya. As shown, you need 3 types of commercial pig feed; the starter, weaner/grower, and the finisher. You will feed your piglets on the starter feed between weeks 8 and 10. You will then introduce them to the weaner or grower feed when they are between 11 and 16 weeks old. For the last three months, feed your pigs on the finisher feed.

 The cost of commercial pig feed in Kenya.

You will need 102 bags of pig feed each of 70kg to raise 22 pigs to maturity. 3 of them will be starter, 22 weaners feed and 77 will be the finisher type of feed.

The total cost of your pig feed will be Ksh 254,760. This assumes the prevailing price of Ksh 2500 for each bag of feed.

Disease and pest control measures for your pig farm

Domestic and exotic Pigs are prone to many disease outbreaks. The common ones that can easily wipe your herd are the African Swine Flu (ASF), Influenza A, and Porcine Cysticercosis. Others are helminths, coccidia, and diarrhea among others. The Mange, jiggers, and worms are the commonly reported pests by pig farmers in Kenya.

 You will need to maintain 1 hygiene , 2 observe biosecurity farm measures and 3 vaccinate your pigs against pests and diseases.

To observe hygiene, rear your pigs in concrete floor houses and wash them daily with chlorine or another disinfectant.  Provide your pigs with clean water daily. Have a foot deep on entrances to prevent the transfer of infection from one pig section to another by your workers and provide sanitation units for people to wash their hands.

The farmers choose to have a pig vaccination schedule observed by their contracted farmers. You will vaccinate your animals against Erysipelas, and E.coli. Porcine Parvovirus and Clostiridium. Farmers in the central region deworm their pigs monthly. The summary of this vaccination program and deworming for a farm raising pigs is shown below

Pig Vaccination Schedule in Kenya

A pig vaccination scheme was observed for contract pig farming in Kenya.

• From the age of 3 months ; Vaccination against Erysipilas, revaccinate 3 weeks later.
• From the age of 6 months ; vaccination against Porein Parvo, revaccinate 3 weeks later.
• 6 weeks before farrowing. Vaccination against E- coli and Clostridium, revaccinate 3 weeks later.
• Yearly revaccination against Erysipilas and Parvo.
• Concerning sows, it will be appropriate to do Parvo and Erysipilas- revaccinate in connection to weaning once a year.
• Parity 1:- Vaccination against E-coli and Clostridium about 6 and 3 weeks before farrowing. If any risk for Rhinitis use simultaneous BP.
• Parity 2 and more- Revaccinate every 3 weeks before farrowing.

Information is power. You can get more profits from your pig farm by seeking and using the latest information on the pork market. You will scout about the best pig breeds, market prices, and how to care for the pigs on your farm to international safety standards.

If you are looking for cheap, credible, and reliable information look for information from following online sources, extension offices, or visiting other farms.

• Online sources by joining a pig farmers forum on Facebook or blogging communities.
• Register for membership in the Kenya National Pig Farmers Association (KENPIFA) lobbying group.
• Watching interviews with successful pig farmers on YouTube (see the one below).
• Published journals and PDFs on pig farming (see resources below) are well-researched and not intended to market a certain company product like pig feeds or vaccines.
• An agriculture county officer or an expert from a large pig farm like the Farmers’ Choice
• Visit other nearby successful pig farms to learn about biosecurity.

Are pigs profitable in Kenya? In this post, we guide you on how to start a pig farm and raise high-quality animals.  To make money in pork farming, you need to observe the good agriculture practices (GAPs) for raising pigs.

How to be a successful pig farmer? The following 7 tips on pig farming guide can make you a successful pig farmer in Kenya.

• Draw an investment plan
• Hire skilled labor/seek professional advice
• Start with high-quality pig breeds
• Invest in proper housing
• Follow a good nutrition/feeding schedule
• Maintain a vigilant disease & pest management program
• Invest in the latest information on modern pig farming

Farmers Choice buys pigs in Kenya for Sh147 per kilogram for deadweight or cold-dressed carcass weight (CDW). The price is calculated per kilogram and is based on the weight of the pigs. 

For example, if your pig’s living weight is 100 kg, here is how much it will be calculated as (100*0.27*147)

Farmer’s Choice Pig Management Manual Pdf

FAO Handbook on Pig Production in pdf

Profitability Analysis of Pig Production under Intensive Management

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16 Comments

Thank you for this very informative article on pig farming. I am an aspiring pig farmer at the research stage and hoping to start construction and farming in 2023.

You are welcome Leah. All the best in your planned pig farm.

Very informative article

Thank alot for your information about pig farming I am interested in this business and I want to start one soon Thank-you

Welcome Tsuma. All the best in your planned endavour

Nicely presented

I am very impressed about pig rearing. AM almost through with research and paper work, then embark on infrastructure construction. THis information is very valuable to me. Be blessed

very informative information about pig farming. only info i dint hear is about feeds. eg type of feeds and how many times to feed them…..

You will need 102 bags of pigs feed each of 70kg to raise 22 pigs to maturity. 3 of them will be starter, 22 weaners feed and 77 will be the finisher type of feed.

Good morning, Am an interested farmer who wants to venture into pig farming. I have gone through the materials and need to take a bold step, however I have challenges with finances especially to support with the feeding. My neighbor has agreed to give a sow and a boar, the structure is there to start with. The only gap is feeding and vaccinations. Any assistance with this will be appreciated.

Hello, Great to hear about your interest in pig farming. Securing funding can be challenging, but there are many a griculture finance sources in Kenya such as grants, loans, and insurance for pig farming projects you can pursue.

Thoroughly research eligibility criteria and terms of these options. Reach out to local agricultural organizations and government agencies for further insights. Best of luck with your pig farming venture!

Love this as a small starting farmer am pleased n knowledgeable now.

Youre are welcome. Empowered with right information can ensure the success of your project from onset. All the best

Quite informative. I am doing research and CBA analysis and hoping to plunge into pig farming from April. Keep up your good work.

Thank you so much

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10 Profitable Animal Farming Business You Can Start In Kenya

Animal farming is a crucial part of Kenya’s economy, providing livelihoods for millions of people and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.

In this context, animal farming has emerged as a profitable and sustainable business venture, attracting entrepreneurs and investors who seek to tap into the growing demand for animal products in local and international markets.

10 Profitable Animal Farming in Kenya

Table of Contents

There are a number of animal profitable animal farming that you can venture into in Kenya. The animal farming venture mentioned here will make you a lot of profit if operated properly.

10 profitable animal farming in Kenya includes Poultry Farming, Dairy Farming, Fish Farming, Beekeeping, Pig Farming, Rabbit Farming, Sheep and Goat Farming, Prawn Farming, Snail Farming, and Crocodile Farming

#1. Poultry Farming

If you’re considering starting an animal farming business in Kenya, poultry farming is a profitable and popular option.

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You’ll need to invest in appropriate housing, feeding, and health care to ensure the optimal growth and productivity of your birds.

In addition, it’s essential to understand market demand and pricing to make informed decisions about production and sales.

#2. Dairy Farming

You’ll keep cows for milk production, and the milk can be sold raw or processed into other dairy products like cheese and yogurt.

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With the right approach, dairy farming can provide a stable and profitable source of income, especially given the high demand for milk and dairy products in the Kenyan market.

#3. Fish Farming

You can raise fish like tilapia and catfish, which are the most commonly raised species in Kenya. Fish farming requires proper infrastructure, including ponds, tanks, or cages, and good quality fish feed to support optimal growth and health of the fish.

You’ll need to monitor the water quality and temperature to ensure optimal conditions for the fish. With the right management practices, fish farming can be a profitable business venture, given the high demand for fish in the Kenyan market, both for domestic consumption and export.

#4. Beekeeping

If you’re interested in animal farming in Kenya, beekeeping is a profitable option that involves raising bees for their honey and other products like beeswax, propolis, and royal jelly.

Beekeeping requires appropriate equipment, such as beehives, protective gear, and tools for harvesting honey. You’ll need to place the beehives in a suitable location and provide a source of food for the bees, such as flowering plants.

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#5. Pig Farming

If you’re considering starting an animal farming business in Kenya, pig farming is a profitable option that involves raising pigs for their meat.

Pig farming requires appropriate housing and feeding facilities, as well as proper health care to ensure the optimal growth and health of the pigs.

You’ll need to invest in good quality pig feed, veterinary care, and equipment for handling and transporting the pigs.

It’s essential to understand market demand and pricing to make informed decisions about production and sales.

With the right management practices, pig farming can provide a steady source of income, especially given the high demand for pork in the Kenyan market.

#6. Rabbit Farming

Rabbit farming requires appropriate housing, feeding, and health care for the rabbits, as well as proper breeding management.

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With the right management practices, rabbit farming can provide a steady source of income, both from selling rabbit meat and fur.

#7. Sheep and Goat Farming

Both sheep and goats are hardy and adaptable to different environments, making them suitable for farming in different regions of Kenya.

You’ll need appropriate housing, feeding, and health care facilities to ensure the optimal growth and health of the animals.

With the right management practices, sheep and goat farming can provide a steady source of income, especially given the high demand for their products in the Kenyan market.

#8. Prawn Farming

Another profitable animal farming option in Kenya is prawn farming. Prawns are a high-value seafood product with increasing demand both domestically and internationally.

Furthermore, you’ll need to monitor water quality and temperature to ensure optimal conditions for the prawns.

Prawn farming has a high potential for profitability, given the high market value of prawns and the potential for export to international markets.

#9. Snail Farming

Snails are raised for their meat, which is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy and nutritious food choice.

Snail farming requires minimal space and resources, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

#10. Crocodile Farming

Another animal farming option in Kenya is crocodile farming, which is a high-risk, high-reward business venture. Crocodiles are raised for their meat, skin, and oil, with high demand for their products in the fashion industry.

However, crocodile farming requires significant investment in infrastructure and equipment, as well as specialized knowledge of the animals’ biology and behavior.

With the right management practices, crocodile farming can provide substantial returns on investment. However, it’s essential to do thorough research and seek expert advice before venturing into this business.

Some Key Factors to consider when venturing into Animal Farming

Key factors to consider when venturing into animal farming in Kenya include:

Benefits of Animal Farming in Kenya

Financial requirements animal farming in kenya.

Financial requirements for starting an animal farming venture in Kenya depend on the type of farming, scale of production, and location.

Challenges of animal farming in Kenya include:

Best practices of animal farming in kenya include:, disadvantages of animal farming in kenya include:.

Top of Form

How to Start Animal Farming in Kenya

Revenue potentials animal farming in kenya.

Some animal farming ventures with high revenue potential include dairy farming, poultry farming, and pig farming.

Most Profitable Livestock Small Farm

Animal husbandry business plan pdf.

An animal husbandry business plan PDF should include an executive summary, market analysis, business description, management structure, marketing strategy, financial projections, and risk assessment.

Livestock Farming Business

Common livestock farming businesses include poultry farming, dairy farming, beef farming, and pig farming.

Livestock Farming Business Plan

Small farm animals for sale.

Small farm animals for sale include poultry, rabbits, goats, sheep, and pigs. These animals are suitable for small farms as they require less space and have lower startup costs compared to larger animals such as cattle.

Profitable Livestock Farming

Best livestock for small farm.

The best livestock for small farms include poultry, rabbits, goats, and sheep. These animals have a low startup cost, require less space, and have high demand in the market. It is important to select the most suitable livestock based on the available resources and market demand.

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How To Start Pig Farming In Kenya 2024

Like other businesses, pig farming has made the rich in the country, while some pig rearers complain of losses. Is pig farming in Kenya worth the risk?

Pig farming in Kenya is profitable when you observe the best practices. Some of the top-performing breeds in the country include Duroc, Hampshire, Landrace, Large White, and Yorkshire. 

The high demand for pork in Kenya ensures that pig farmers have a ready market for their animal products. It also means they rake in huge profits when they meet the quality and supply standards of the market.

In this guide, you will learn

• How to start pig farming in Kenya in 2023
• Benefits of pig farming 
• Challenges of pig farming and the best practices to increase profitability

Let’s delve in!

What Is Pig Farming Business?

Pig farming is raising and breeding pigs for selling. Also known as hog or pork farming, this business entails selling pig meat and other pig products such as skin.

Why Invest in Pig Farming in Kenya?

• High Demand : Kenya consumes 300,000 metric tonnes of pork every year. This means investing in pork farming makes you enjoy a ready market for your products.
• Value Addition : With value addition, you can produce processed pork products such as bacon, ham, and sausages to increase your business profitability.
• International Market Access : The Middle East and Asia have a growing demand for pork. As a result, pig farmers in Kenya can take advantage of this and export their products at top dollar.
• Increasing Demand for Organic Pork : The growing demand for organic pork creates a ready market, making pig farming profitable.
• Biogas : Did you know you can power your house with biogas production from pig manure? Pig farming rakes in massive profits and takes care of your power needs!

Challenges of Pig Farming in Kenya (And Best Practices)

Similar to any other investment, pig farming faces different challenges. Fortunately, with the proper practices, you can mitigate the risks and maximize profitability.

So, what are the challenges of pig farming, and how can you maneuver them?

1. High Feed Cost

In almost the past two years, Kenya has experienced maize shortage, which is a primary ingredient for pig feed. Consequently, feed expenses have spiked, eating away farmers’ profits.

Best Practice: To solve this, you should use part of your land to plant maize, soybeans, and sorghum. These three, when mixed, provide a balanced diet for your pigs to grow healthy, meeting the market standards.

2. Disease Outbreaks

Let’s face it: farming across the country, whether plantation or animal rearing, encounters a fundamental problem: diseases. Pig farming is not left behind in this, meaning you might lose your pig ranch to Foot and Mouth and African Swine during an outbreak.

But how can you solve this?

Best Practice: You should establish an effective disease management program to avoid losing your livestock to diseases. This can include proper hygiene practices, regular vaccination, and quarantine procedures.

3. Inadequate Technical Skills

You need breeding, disease management, and feeding skills to succeed in pig farming. Unfortunately, most Kenyan pig farmers lack the technical skills to realize their business goals.

Best Practice: You can maximize your business profitability by attending training and seeking extension services. For instance, attend workshops, collaborate with extension officers, and join farmers’ groups in the country.

4. Poor Market Connection

Agribusiness in Kenya has faced a severe challenge: poor market connection within and outside the country. Small-scale farmers are more affected since they have not interacted with key market players.

Best Practices: Marketing and value addition can help you solve this challenge. Start by identifying the right market for your business, then produce products like bacon and sausages to increase your business profitability.

5. Cultural Stigma

A common challenge in pig farming is the cultural stigma farmers have to bear. In some communities, pigs are considered unclean, making farmers a key target for stigma.

Best Practices: Since this can affect your profitability, you should establish your pig farming business in a high-demand region. 

How To Start Pig Farming in Kenya; Pig Farming Requirements

Venturing into the pig farming business demands that you acquire the following

1. Suitable Land

The location and size of land for pig farming Kenya will determine your business outcomes.

Remember, not all communities support pig farming, meaning if you establish your business in such areas, you’ll face low demand for your products.

Again, the infrastructure and resource accessibility will impact how well your pigs perform. So when choosing land, ensure there is 

• Enough water supply from the rivers, wells, or pond
• Easy market accessibility
• Cheap labor is guaranteed in the villages.
• Affordable feed elements such as maize and sorghum
• Efficient transportation
• Easy accessibility to veterinary services
• Quiet and calm environment

2. Proper Housing

Your piggeries should have sufficient space since overcrowding increases the risk of disease spread. For instance, if you’re raising two swine, you will need a 20 by 24-meter shed.

The main sections of your pigs’ shed include the feeding area, water section, sleeping area, quarantine room, and extra space for moving around. Also, to avoid the messiness they come with, construct a concrete shed instead of a muddy one.

Remember, your pig shed should be warm as pigs are prone to pneumonia, and you don’t want losses. 

3. Feeding Requirements

The best nutrient combo for proper weight gain and health includes vitamins and proteins. Since pigs are omnivores, you can combine commercial feed with grains, vegetables, kitchen waste, and meat to supplement their nutritional requirements.

How Much Do I Need To Start Pig Farming In Kenya?

The cost of farming in Kenya varies due to factors like number of pigs, feed cost, and labor cost in your location. Here is what you should expect

• Housing between Kshs 30,000 – Kshs 200,000
• Feed cost Kshs 2,000 – Kshs 4,500
• Labor cost varies depending on your location’s wage standards
• Health management costs, including medication, vaccination, and veterinary services
• Breeding costs covering artificial insemination or securing breeding stock

So, you will work with a budget of Kshs 40,000 and above, depending on your farm’s size.

Tip: To succeed in this business, you must apply record keeping. This way, you will keep track of the cash going out and that coming in, helping you maximize your business profitability. Again, learning breeding and genetics as you expand your business will improve your pigs’ productivity. 

4 Most Profitable Pig Breeds in Kenya

The pig breeds that perform well in Kenya include

1. Large White

The Large White breed has exceptional feed conversion efficiency, a fast growth rate, and good meat quality. It is the most popular breed in the country due to its impeccable features.

This breed has a robust body that can withstand various weather conditions and produces 10 to 12 piglets. Usually white, the Large White pigs perform well in intensive production plans.

2. Duroc Jersey

Popularly referred to as the Red Hogs, Duroc Jersey is an American Hog breed that does well in cold and wet conditions. It has sweet meat, making it a popular breed in pig farming in Kenya.

Usually red, the Durco Jersey produces the best bacon and is also ideal for the outdoors since it’s not vulnerable to sunburns.

However, it is characterized by less litter size than the other pig breeds. Hence, your herd’s growth is slower.

3. The Landrace

This white-skinned pig boasts a long middle and exceptional ham growth. They produce fresh pork and bacon, which customers find ideal. 

They are also popular in Kenya due to their outstanding mothering abilities. Typically, they produce 10 to 15 piglets in one farrowing, making them highly profitable.

4. Hampshire 

Hampshire is famous for producing the leanest meat. This breed is white and black and is mainly used for crossbreeding since it boasts a high growth rate and quality meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how much is 1 pig in kenya.

A boar costs Kshs 40,000, while a pregnant sow is Kshs 60,000. Suppose you want to start small pig farming in Kenya; you will part with Kshs 120,000 to secure 2 pregnant swine.

2. Which Type of Pig Grows Faster?

Large White and Landrace have been known to grow fast. However, farmers have discovered a way of securing the fastest-growing herd through crossbreeding. 

That’s why attending breeding and genetics training is significant to learn how to increase your herd’s productivity and profitability.

Want to establish a profitable agribusiness? Pig farming in Kenya is one of the most lucrative sectors. Actually, you can become a millionaire through pig farming. How?

To begin with, identify the best-performing breed in the country and find a suitable location that promotes its growth. Then, build a proper structure and establish a consistent feed and veterinary services source.

Finalize by performing best practices to maximize your herd’s productivity and returns.

• 10 High-Income Agribusiness Ideas in Kenya
• 10 Most Profitable Vegetables To Grow in Kenya

Written by Alex

I have passion in helping people Make, Manage, Multiply & Protect Wealth.Download my Free Guide to Financial Freedom >>[ GET IT HERE]<<

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Pig farming in Kenya - How to be successful

Farming might just be what you want to do but what kind of farming could make your business shine? Don’t have the answer? What if I could suggest you something? Would you consider it? Well, that depends on you. There are various kinds of farming among which you can choose from. One of the most successful farming businesses is pig farming.

Although nothing new or out of the box, many countries are adept at this line of work. But that does not mean it cannot be one of the best you could do as well. Whether you are planning to start or you are already in this business, this article could suggest you with probable resolution to any kind of problems or confusions which you might be bearing in your mind. So, let us try and add merit to your enterprise.

Pig farming in Kenya

Pig farming is considered to be one of the most profitable business ventures in Kenya. It could be seen among most of the pig farmers that they are in fact enjoying a good amount of profits by producing good quality pork. As a matter of fact, pig farming can be done both in large scale as well as small-scale farming and can bring forth not the just high amount of profits but also a source of nutrition and food commercially.

Guidelines of places to purchase graded dairy cattle in Kenya

When you think about livestock farming in Kenya, it turns out that it is not very different from pig farming as they are relatively the same.

READ ALSO: Large scale rabbit farming in Kenya

Benefits of pig farming business in Kenya

If we think about the economic condition of Kenya, there can be a lot of benefits associated with it both for the farmer and the economy of Kenya as well. Here are some of the main benefits of pig farming in Kenya

• Pigs tend to have a fast growth rate as they convert more energy into protein.
• Reproduction of pigs takes very less time as they grow at a much rapid rate compared to other livestock animals.
• The daily family nutrition demand can be fulfilled by pig farming in Kenya as well.
• Feeding cost can be reduced in pig farming as pigs literally eat everything.
• Pigs give birth twice a year producing 10 piglets in each birth. The gestation period is less, tends to be a maximum of 115 days.
• The market for pigs in Kenya is very legit. Not much investment is required for pig farming in Kenya. Your farm will transform into a commercial stage at a very short period of time if it is done right.
• Kenya’s weather, as well as geographical conditions, tend to compliment pig farming business.
• The return on investment (ROI) is also very good for pig farming in Kenya.
• It is a very good source of providing employment opportunities for our fellow Kenyans as well. Pig farming can prove to be one of the best sources of providing employment opportunities to the unemployed educated people as well.
• The Kenyan market has a very good rate of demand for pig farming as well.
• You can follow your current profession and at the same time go for pig farming as well.

Business plan for pig farming in Kenya

Here are some more benefits of pig farming in Kenya in details

Pigs have high food conversion ability. They construct a good gain of weight from feed compared to many other animals capable of meat production. To be precise, pigs fall in the second place after broiler chickens, when it comes to gaining weight efficiently. Pigs are efficient in the usage of different kinds of food such as forages and grains and transmute those into useful and nutritious meat.

You can feed damaged cereals and leftovers to your pigs, and that in turn will lessen the pressure of having to buy extra food and other stuff for them. In that way, you will be able to spend less money and save more, which you can use to make pig farming Kenya better.

When compared with others, pigs are one of the most fertile animals on earth. They have a relatively short interval in reproduction. Gilt (female pig) attains adulthood as quickly as 8 to 9 months before she can start procreation. In just a year, a sow can reproduce twice, giving birth to 8-12 piglets every time.

Is pig farming a good business? How do I go about pig rearing?- A guide on pig farming Kenya

This means you won’t have to invest too much on farm equipments and buildings when you plan to start your very own commercial pig farming in Kenya.

• Meat Production

Pork is many people’s favourite meat. It is nutritious with high fat count and less water content. It has abundant vitamins- Niacin, Thiamin, Riboflavin. Simply put, pork has greater energy value compared to other meat. And your farming business can also help fight one big issue faced in many parts of our country- malnutrition.

Pig farming business in Kenya is in high demand because of the products pigs can give us for both export as well as domestic markets. Pigs are able to contain fat fast which results in a rising requirement from various industries like paints, chemical, poultry feeds, and soaps.

Pig manure can be used from your farm to fertilize fish ponds and plants. Your farming business can quickly provide you returns as you will be able to attain the state of fattening pigs in just a matter of six to eight months.

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Is pig farming profitable in Kenya?

Definitely, yes. Pig farming is highly profitable in Kenya. The market for pig products in Kenya is abundant and the demand is always high. Compared to other livestock farming options, pig farming is considered to be the best option in Kenya.

How to start pigs farming in Kenya?

Although, the benefits may be very attractive pig farming may not be that easy to set up in Kenya. A lot of tasks need to be done by considering a lot of options as well. Do not worry; we have sorted this out for you as well. Here are the steps necessary to be followed to start pig farming business in the Kenyan soil.

Select a farmland that is suitable enough for pig farming in Kenya

It is very important to select a proper farmland if you are looking for starting pig farming in Kenya. You must look for a suitable land that will provide you with all the required facilities and requirements which will guarantee good health conditions, good growth along with proper marketing related opportunities and a lot of profits.

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Remember to properly estimate the size as well as area of the farm, by properly estimating the number of pigs required on your farm. Here are some of the factors that you need to consider.

• Freshwater supply is very much important, so do not forget to arrange a good source of fresh water for your pig farm. A water source such as pond, lake or river etc.
• Look for a place that is far away from residential zones. Avoid too noisy areas and look for a quiet place.
• Try to keep your pig farm closer to the market area for convenience in buying and selling necessary goods.
• Transportation is very important. Remember to choose a good system of transportation for your farm.
• Veterinary service is another necessity. Choose a location that has veterinary hospitals or services nearby your farm location.
• Try to choose a proper land in the rural/village areas for the availability of cheap land, feeding elements and labour.
• Look for cheap feeding elements so that you can easily cut out the food cost.

Choose a suitable breed

Properly analyze your production scale and choose a proper breed. For commercial pig farming in Kenya, you can go for both hybrids as well as local pigs. Pig farming and marketing in Kenya includes profitable pig breeds such as Landrace, Large White, Duroc, Yorkshires, Hampshire etc. Here are some of the signs that you need to consider while choosing pig breeds for your farm in Kenya.

• Glossy coat
• Bright eyes pair
• Good temperament
• Responsive as well as alert to the surrounding environment
• Normal and easy movement
• Good appeal to food
• Do not purchase pigs that are aggressive
• The pigs must be free from any sort of unnatural signs and lameness
• Go for a detailed analysis of the health issues, history of production and check all other records.

Remember to identify the best-seasoned pig farmers while you make the purchase. Your best option can be experienced village farmers who have been in the business for a long time.

Commercial pig farming in Kenya

This section is for those who are planning to set up commercial pig farming in the country. It will help you determine the breeds which you are going to add to your piggery.

Landrace: This breed of pigs can be identified by its white colour and straight snout. Also keep an eye on the ears; if the ears are drooping, that is a landrace. The piglets produced by the sows have very lean meat and fine daily weight gain. Such meat is ideal for the preparation of bacon and pork.

Large white: Large white pigs can be identified by their straight ears and a little concave face structure. These pigs have long bodies, fine hair and fantastic hams. Large whites are really fertile and have good mothering capability. They can be used for the production of pork and bacon.

Camborough: Camboroughs are mainly imported from South Africa. This breed of pigs grows fast and contains relatively lesser fat. The sows are fine mothers and they do not lose their babies. They hold enough milk and feed the piglets well. Camborough pigs farrow thrice a year and produce approximately 14 piglets every time. One of the best qualities of this breed is that can be immune to diseases if taken care of properly.

Hampshire: This breed of pigs is one of the prime breeds in the world. Hampshires are developed in the United States and is mainly used as the male parent of cross breds for the production of bacon and pork. Hampshire is a fertile breed of pigs and they produce abundant leant meat. They are capable of producing more meat than Landrace and Large whites.

Duroc: Duroc can be identified by its black to golden brown colour, thick skin and auburn coat. Their ears are kind of smaller compared to others, and they are also a little droopy. Durocs are distinguished by their rapid growth, shoulder, big hams and deep body. Usually, this breed has been used as male parents for pigs. Durocs are good parents and a great choice for outdoor farming and commercial pig farming.

Now on to the different pig farming systems

There are three different pig farming systems from which you can choose. It basically depends on the capital you are ready to invest on your farm. Below are the three systems which have been described precisely for your understanding in this matter. You can then decide which system you are going to choose from.

1. Free range pig farming

This is not really a commercial system and holds on more to the first and basic style of pig farming done in households. This kind of farming is also known as scavenging pig farming. Such system can provide the house with fund during emergencies and also provide meat in dire situations. If you were looking for something small to start with, this system might just be for you and it requires little time and money.

2. Small scale pig farming in Kenya

Kenya has successful pig farming businesses. Some of the small scale pig farmers in Kenya utilize this system. It is a good arrangement where you keep pigs in a small farm or house and take proper care of their food and health. What you get from this is high production value while also marketing the pigs.

3. Intensive pig farming

Now we are talking about the bigger fishing in the seas. You are going to make this arrangement when you have decided to enter the real market with efficient meat production and earn large amount of profit. You are going to need to invest a notable amount of money as well as time. Since it is no small thing, you will have to make proper calculations of the costs you are going to incur as well the kind of benefits you can expect. Be sure about this system as you will need to spend capital on pig requirements and modern housing, so that the feeding and health of the pigs are never neglected.

Pig rearing in Kenya

As you decide on the above-mentioned systems, you will also have to work on pig production and pig rearing strategy.

1. Farrow to Wean

You have a stock of pigs who are going to be the parents by giving birth to piglets. After the birth of the piglets, you will take appropriate care and rear them up to wean. Then, you can sell them to fatteners and growers. Remember, we are talking about selling only the piglets. Keep the parents for repeating the process.

2. Farrow to Finish

In this part, you are to raise the piglets, rear them, have them grow with proper nutrition and good health, and fatten them. Do the process of fattening in one unit. Now, you can sell live pigs to slaughter houses and also sell pork. This strategy is adopted when the locality does not have any market for piglets.

3. Fattening

In this strategy, your farm does not need to have parents. All you do is buy a lot of piglets continuously and rearing pigs for pork.

Pigs can be very strong. Make sure that the living conditions for them are sturdy enough to take the impact. Shaded zones, as well as proper air circulation facilities, are among the most important requirements for your farm. In a general context, it could be seen that the piglets are too sensitive to cold temperature, whereas, the adult ones are sensitive to hot temperature. Pig farming in Kenya today is as popular and profitable as it has been all the time, provided the housing facilities are better. The measurement of the land should be around 60ft by 40ft.

The perfect solution to this is a controlled temperature farm that can sustain all these conditions for a healthy growth of the pigs. The piglets need to be around their mother, so it will be better if you keep the mothers along with their baby piglets separately. Keep your house clean all the time. Bedding and feeding places are to be separated for a neater environment.

Housing size requirements for pig farming in Kenya

The age and sex of the pigs play a very important role in construction of the house. The floor should be 3X3 metres and the height of the floor must be roughly around 60 cms above ground level. The boards of the floor should be pure concrete built and should have 2 cms of space gap. Higher side of the roof should be facing towards sunshine and rain proof.

The building should be divided into various pens for different phases of the production. The size and number of the pens depend upon the population of the pigs.

Here are the space requirements for the different stages and ages of the growth of pigs for your pig farm.

• Pregnant sows 1.5 – 2.0 sq metres per sow
• Fattening pig 0.5 – 1.0 sq metres per pig
• Weaner piglets 0.3 – 0.5 sq metres per piglet
• Lactating sow 4 – 6 sq metres per sow
• Breeding boars 6 – 8 sq metres per boar

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Behold the most important part of the pig farming in Kenya which is undoubtedly feeding. Good production can always be guaranteed if the food provided to the pigs are nutritious and of good quality. Pigs consume both grains as well as meat. They eat almost anything, from garbage to good food. The daily water intake for the pigs can range from 20 to 30 litres.

You can feed them, kitchen garbage, roughage, stalk from beverage companies as well as agricultural waste, it is not just among the interesting pig farming facts in Kenya as pigs do eat everything. However, you can also go for cooked vegetables and cooked table scraps if you want to. Corn is the primary food for the pigs. If you want your meals to be effective, you can go on a diet for the pigs that include cooked meat or soybeans’.

Equipment necessary for feeding

Feeding troughs can be used for feeding pigs, just as for other animals. The trough should be properly anchored to the floor. In order to keep the hygiene standards in check ensure that there is no water clogging.

Ensure a proper feeding time for your pigs so that they get familiar with the timings and respond.

Regularly feed your pigs’ good supplements as well as vitamins so that they can grow healthier and faster. Compared to the adult pigs, piglets need more amount of protein. Make sure to serve your pigs and piglets a good and satisfactory amount of clean water as a part of their daily demands.

Sufficient amount of clean water will make sure that your pigs are healthy and a healthy farm will ensure a good amount of profits from your pig farm in Kenya.

Pig breeding is a lot easier as compared to other livestock breeding. Some of the common types of pig breeding include cross-breeding, pure breeding, inbreeding and outbreeding. In most cases, the gestation period of pig farming is 115 days to be most.

Market for pigs in Kenya

Kenya has a huge demand for pig products such as bacon, pork, sausages and other varieties of pork items. If you are planning to start a pig farming in Kenya, you need not worry about marketing related issues and problems. You can just sell your pigs at the nearest local market and gain a good amount of profits.

Profits from pig farming in Kenya

In Kenya, commercial pig farming is a lot popular as well as a profitable source of business. The market growth is awesome and the market demand is also very high but, there is a limited supply in the market that needs to be taken advantage of. Opportunities for pig farming in Kenya are thriving. So, go ahead and make good use of it.

Pig farming challenges in Kenya

Everything being said, there will always be issues that need to be answered. Even if you have set everything up and you are of the thinking that it has all been done, think again. There are constant necessities of the farm which you will need to take care of. Let us divulge a little more into those and help you not just flourish a bit of your farming business, but also help teach you smart pig farming in Kenya.

Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)

FCR is the measure of a pig's productivity in changing feed mass into expanded weight. In particular, FCR is the mass of the sustenance isolated by the weight increase, everywhere on a predefined period. Creature breeds with a low FCR are viewed as effective clients of feed.

Average Daily Fain (ADG)

ADG is a huge factor in evaluating development rates in most sustenance creature species. Your point is that you keep a pig that develops fast, with the goal that you can accomplish market weights in most brief timeframe utilizing minimal measure of info/cost so you get the most noteworthy benefit. In production of pigs, the most cost-proficient feed transformation and the most elevated normal day by day pick up are the essential variables deciding productivity of creation.

Bad health will result in the increase of feed transformation ratio, which in turn will lessen the average daily gain. There are no limits to diseases and such like the African swine flu is capable of wiping out all of the pigs you own and result in a great loss.

The present market requests more slender carcasses, so you should endeavor to deliver more slender pigs, creatures with high development rate, bigger litter size, high heritability and low transformation proportion. All these are straightforwardly affected by hereditary qualities.

Reproduction

Poor determination of the reproducing stock and decision of a pig or artificial inseminate will straightforwardly influence your pig cultivating business benefits.

Market & price

The marketplace for pork and pigs may be large but it does not have any significance until you have determined which is going to be your market and what will be the offered price.

We have numerous butchers, eateries, inns and stores building up today with pork on their menu; both in Urban and rustic zones. Pork is a delicacy to numerous Kenyans, and to a great extent, considered a social meat that can't be missed on a few gatherings. Pork joints have likewise moved toward becoming gathering places for gatherings of individuals who need to eat meat. Dissimilar to different meats, numerous pork buyers in Kenya favour eating near a kilogram of pork each time they meet at pork joint!

When you are constructing the farming business, keep in mind, the items on which you will be spending your money on.

Fixed costs

You will bring about these before you begin any creation. They continue as before; independent of any creation increments or decreases and include building costs, purchase/development of feed troughs, purchases or substitution of reproducing stock, and purchase of land.

Variable costs

Costs that will change in extent to your generation levels including veterinary costs, stationary , transport , maintenance of offices, Marketing costs, wages and pay rates , and misfortunes because of mortalities.

The sources, from which your business anticipates that cash will originate from will likewise, influence your benefits. Your Pig Farming Business could hope to profit from the offer of weaners, porkers and baconers, cull pigs and sows, rearing pigs and sows, and also, manure sale.

This is the distinction between your expenses and wage. The expenses ought to incorporate work and any conceivable hazard in your business. The most costly contribution to production of pigs is feeds; on the grounds that it devours between 60 to 80% of the aggregate generation costs. You need to actualize systems that will lessen the information costs in your business.

Therefore, now do you see, no matter if every aspect has been taken care of, there will always be challenges that will need to be answered. Above mentioned are the ideas you always need to keep in mind; for these will help you clear out all other possibilities of making mistakes which could be a little risky. However, if you follow all that has been said, pig farming in Kenya can be the best decision of your life.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Jackline Wangare (Lifestyle writer) Jackline Simwa is a content writer at Tuko.co.ke, where she has worked since mid-2021. She tackles diverse topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. Previously, she worked at The Campanile at Kenyatta University. She has more than five years in writing. Jackline graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2019) and a Diploma in Marketing (2015) from Kenyatta University. In 2023, Simwa finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques and Google News Initiative course in 2024. Email: [email protected].

New Generation Culture in Agriculture

Pig Farming In Kenya, A Profitable Venture For Smallholder Farmers

Pig farming is an important aspect of agriculture in Kenya. Over the years, the demand for pork in the country has continued to grow, leading to an increase in the number of pig farmers. Pig farming is a lucrative venture that can provide a steady source of income for smallholder farmers. In this article, we will delve into the details of pig farming in Kenya, looking at the opportunities, challenges, best practices, cost of production, profitability and the math’s that farmers need to observe.

Opportunities of pig farming in Kenya

The demand for pork in Kenya is high, and it is expected to continue growing in the coming years. This presents an opportunity for farmers who are looking to venture into pig farming. With a growing population, there is a need for more pork production to meet the increasing demand. Furthermore, the government has put in place policies that support pig farming, including the provision of veterinary services, subsidies on pig feed, and the establishment of pork processing facilities.

Here are some opportunities of pig farming in Kenya:

• High Demand for Pork Meat: The demand for pork meat in Kenya is high, with an estimated annual consumption of over 300,000 metric tonnes. This creates a huge opportunity for pig farmers to meet the demand for pork in the market.
• Export Opportunities: There is a growing demand for pork meat in the international market, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. Pig farmers in Kenya can take advantage of this by exporting their pork products to these markets.
• Job Creation: Pig farming creates job opportunities for Kenyans, particularly in rural areas where employment opportunities are limited. Pig farming provides jobs for breeders, feed suppliers, animal health workers, and other supporting staff.
• Value Addition: Pig farming can provide opportunities for value addition through the production of pork products such as sausages, bacon, and ham. Value addition can increase the profitability of pig farming in Kenya.
• Organic Pig Farming: Organic pig farming is a growing trend in Kenya, with consumers increasingly demanding organic pork products. Pig farmers can take advantage of this trend by producing organic pork products.
• Biogas Production: Pig manure is an excellent source of biogas, which can be used to generate electricity and cooking gas. Pig farmers can use biogas to reduce their energy costs and generate additional income by selling excess biogas.

Overall, pig farming in Kenya offers numerous opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors to generate income, create jobs, and contribute to food security.

Challenges of Pig Farming In Kenya

Pig farming in Kenya also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the main challenges that farmers face is the lack of access to markets. Many farmers are not able to sell their pigs at a good price, leading to low profitability. Another challenge is the outbreak of diseases, which can be devastating for pig farmers. Some of the common diseases that affect pigs in Kenya include African Swine Fever (ASF) and Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). To overcome these challenges, farmers need to adopt good management practices, including proper housing, hygiene, and regular vaccination of their pigs.

Here are some of the challenges of pig farming in Kenya:

• Disease Outbreaks: Pigs are susceptible to a range of diseases, some of which can be fatal. Outbreaks of diseases such as African swine fever and foot-and-mouth disease can lead to significant losses for pig farmers.
• High Feed Costs: Pig feed is one of the biggest expenses in pig farming. The cost of pig feed can be high, particularly during periods of drought when the cost of maize, a key ingredient in pig feed, increases.
• Lack of Capital: Pig farming requires significant capital investment in infrastructure, such as housing, water supply, and feed storage. Many small-scale pig farmers in Kenya lack the necessary capital to invest in these infrastructure requirements.
• Poor Market Linkages: Pig farmers in Kenya may struggle to access markets for their products, particularly small-scale farmers who may not have the resources to transport their products to market.
• Lack of Technical Skills: Pig farming requires technical skills such as breeding, feeding, and disease management. Many pig farmers in Kenya may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully manage their pig farms.
• Limited Government Support: The Kenyan government provides limited support to pig farmers in terms of subsidies, extension services, and market linkages.
• Cultural Stigma: In some Kenyan communities, pigs are seen as unclean animals, and this cultural stigma can make it challenging for pig farmers to market their products in these areas.

These challenges can make pig farming in Kenya a difficult and risky venture, particularly for small-scale farmers. However, with the right support and management, pig farming can be a profitable and sustainable business.

Best Practices

To run a successful pig farm in Kenya, here are some best practices that farmers should follow:

• Proper Housing: Pigs need a clean, dry, and well-ventilated environment. Farmers should ensure that their pigs have adequate space and that the housing is properly constructed to keep the pigs comfortable and healthy.
• Quality Feeding: Pigs require a balanced diet to grow and thrive. Farmers should provide their pigs with a balanced diet of protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals. This can be achieved by mixing local ingredients like maize, sorghum, and soybean.
• Disease Management: Pigs are susceptible to various diseases, and farmers should have a good disease management program to prevent outbreaks. This can include regular vaccination, quarantine procedures, and good hygiene practices.
• Breeding and Genetics: Farmers should select the best breeding stock to produce high-quality piglets. This can be achieved by selecting boars and sows with desirable traits such as high growth rates, good mothering abilities, and resistance to diseases.
• Record-Keeping: Farmers should keep detailed records of their pig farm operations, including breeding, feeding, health, and sales. This will help them monitor their performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Marketing and Value Addition: Pig farmers should identify markets for their products and invest in value addition by producing products like sausages and bacon. This will increase their profitability and help them capture a larger share of the market.
• Training and Extension Services: Farmers should continuously improve their skills and knowledge through training and extension services. This can include attending workshops and seminars, joining farmers’ groups, and working with extension officers.

By following these best practices, pig farmers in Kenya can improve their productivity and profitability, minimize their risks, and contribute to the country’s food security.

Pig farming in Kenya is a lucrative venture that can provide a steady source of income for farmers. While there are challenges, including access to markets and the outbreak of diseases, farmers can overcome them by adopting best practices. Proper housing, hygiene, feeding, and disease control are essential in pig farming. By following these practices, farmers can increase their profitability and contribute to the growth of the pork industry in Kenya.

Cost of pig production in Kenya

The cost of pig production in Kenya varies depending on various factors, including the farming system, feed quality, health management practices, and the size of the farm. Here are some of the costs involved in pig production in Kenya:

• Housing Costs: The cost of building and maintaining pig housing can vary depending on the size and type of housing. A simple pigsty can cost between Ksh. 30,000 to Ksh. 50,000, while more complex housing systems like environmentally controlled systems can cost over Ksh. 200,000.
• Feed Costs: Feed costs are the most significant expense in pig farming, and it can account for up to 70% of the total production cost. The cost of feed depends on the type and quality of feed used. A bag of pig feed (70kg) can cost between Ksh. 2,000 to Ksh. 4,500 depending on the brand and the seller.
• Labor Costs: Labor costs include salaries or wages paid to workers involved in pig farming activities like feeding, cleaning, and health management. The cost of labor varies depending on the size of the farm and the level of automation.
• Health Management Costs: Pig farmers incur costs related to vaccination, medication, and veterinary services to maintain the health of their animals. The cost of health management can vary depending on the type of vaccines, drugs, and veterinary services required.
• Breeding Costs: The cost of breeding includes acquiring breeding stock, semen, and artificial insemination services. The cost of breeding depends on the breed and the quality of breeding stock.

Overall, the cost of pig production in Kenya can range between Ksh. 50,000 to Ksh. 200,000 per pig per year, depending on the production system, management practices, and market demand. It is essential for farmers to minimize costs and maximize productivity to ensure profitability in pig farming.

Profitability Of Pig Farming In Kenya

Pig farming can be a profitable venture in Kenya, particularly due to the high demand for pork meat. The profitability of pig farming in Kenya depends on several factors, including:

• Production Costs: Pig farmers should ensure that their production costs, including feed, housing, and veterinary costs, are kept as low as possible to maximize profitability.
• Market Demand: The demand for pork meat in the Kenyan market is high, and pig farmers should ensure they have a ready market for their products. They can do this by partnering with processors, wholesalers, and retailers.
• Production Efficiency: Farmers should strive to improve their production efficiency by using quality breeds, proper housing, feeding, and disease management practices to ensure high productivity and low mortality rates.
• Value Addition: Pig farmers can increase their profitability by adding value to their products through processing, packaging, and branding their products to differentiate them in the market.
• Government Support: Government support, including subsidies, extension services, and access to finance, can significantly contribute to the profitability of pig farming in Kenya.

Overall, pig farming can be a profitable venture in Kenya, provided that farmers adopt best practices to minimize costs, maximize productivity, and access the market. The profitability of pig farming can also depend on external factors such as climate change, disease outbreaks, and market shocks.

The income you can make from pig farming in Kenya can vary depending on several factors, including the size of your farm, the number of pigs you keep, and the market demand for pork in your area. However, with proper management, pig farming can be a profitable business in Kenya.

According to research, a well-managed pig can give birth to between six to eight piglets twice a year, and with a survival rate of 70%, it means that in a year, one pig can give birth to approximately 10-12 piglets. If each piglet is sold for KES 3,500, this translates to an income of about KES 42,000 to KES 48,000 per year per pig.

Furthermore, the sale of mature pigs can also generate income for pig farmers. The price of a mature pig depends on the weight and the prevailing market price. A fully grown pig weighing around 60-100 kg can be sold for between KES 20,000 and KES 40,000.

When fed right, pigs can weigh approximately 90 to 120 kilos. When you take them to a slaughterhouse, a 60kg to 70kg pig will sell at Ksh.13,000 to Ksh.16,000.

Let’s assume you slaughter all the first bred 20 swines each weighing 70kg in seven months’ time; then you can make Ksh.16,000 X 20 = Ksh.320,000 – Ksh.120,000 (feeding costs) = Ksh.200,000 profit in 7 months.

That’s is profit made when starting with 2 pregnant pigs. The more the pigs you have the more the profit you make and the lower the feeding and operations costs.

In case you in an area where pig farming has not yet peaked, you can be the source of breeding stock for other entrepreneurs. Using a quality boar and assuming that out of the 20 pigs born around 15 are female, you could breed them and sell them as pregnant sows which cost Ksh.35,000 Kenyan shillings each.

That will earn you Ksh.525,000 – Ksh.160,000 (feeding cost) = Ksh.365,000 profit in 7 to 8 months.

However, it’s important to note that the profitability of pig farming depends on several factors, including the cost of feed, veterinary services, and other overhead expenses. Therefore, it’s crucial to have a well-planned and executed business model to ensure profitability.

Best Pig Breeds Kept In Kenya

There are several pig breeds that are suitable for pig farming in Kenya. The choice of the breed depends on the farmer’s preference, the market demand, and the intended use of the pig. Here are some of the best pig breeds in Kenya:

• Large White: Large White is a popular breed in Kenya known for its fast growth rate, high feed conversion efficiency, and good meat quality.
• Landrace: Landrace pigs are also popular in Kenya due to their high productivity, excellent mothering abilities, and suitability for free-range systems.
• Duroc: Duroc is a good breed for farmers who want to produce pork with good marbling and flavor. The breed is known for its hardiness and adaptability to different climatic conditions.
• Hampshire: Hampshire is another popular breed in Kenya due to its high growth rate, good meat quality, and suitability for intensive production systems.
• Pietrain: Pietrain is a European breed that has gained popularity in Kenya due to its high lean meat percentage, good feed conversion efficiency, and fast growth rate.

It is essential for farmers to choose the right pig breed that suits their farming system, market demand, and management practices. Farmers should also ensure that they source their piglets from reputable breeders to avoid getting inferior breeds that can affect productivity and profitability.

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• November 5, 2023
• in Agribusiness , Pig Farming
• By Florence Ngaru

The agricultural sector in Kenya is ever evolving and offering new opportunities for small-scale farmers. Pig farming continues to gain popularity due to the increasing demand for pork in the country. The annual consumption is over 300,000 metric tonnes, owing to a growing population, urbanization and changing dietary preferences. If managed properly, pig farming can be a profitable business venture. This article provides a comprehensive exploration into effective strategies and best practices to implement in order to thrive and ensure profitability in pig farming.

Strategies for efficient pig farming

Hygiene and housing It is important that the environment be clean, well ventilated and spacious in order to avoid stress on the pigs as well as diseases. This also ensures that your pigs are comfortable while also preventing them from stomping over each other during feeding time or at night when sleeping. The building should be cleaned properly at least twice daily so that they are not sitting on their droppings for too long running the risk of infectious diseases.

Efficient Breeding This can be accomplished by opting for high-quality breeding stock to enhance productivity. Ensuring that you source your piglets from reputable breeders as well as selecting boars and sows with desirable traits like disease resistance, good maternal skills and rapid growth rates guarantee a significant impact on productivity and profitability.

Feeding and Nutrition For optimal growth, it is important that your pigs enjoy a balanced diet. Supplementing the animal feeds with local ingredients like soy beans, maize, sorghum will aid in providing your pigs with a well-rounded diet while simultaneously minimizing the costs and ensuring good quality nutrition. Feeds account for up to 70% of the production cost therefore minimizing this by employing the above mentioned ingredients will help you save some money.

Record Keeping and Monitoring Keeping detailed records of breeding, feeding, vaccinations, sale and health progress of your pigs makes it a lot easier to manage your pig farm properly. This also allows for identification of challenges arising and gives you a chance to overcome them. It also aids in informed decision-making improving efficiency and productivity.

Training and continuous learning Staying updated with the latest farming techniques and ever evolving industry trends through working with extension officers, workshops and seminars ensures better farm management. This also helps you to stay informed about seasonal and weather conditions that may affect your pig farming and how to be properly equipped and best prepared to handle each and every situation.

Disease Management Pigs often fall prey to deadly diseases like African Swine Flu (ASF) and Porcine parvovirus (PPV). ASF can be mitigated by rearing your pigs in confinement, on paved floors. An Infestation of the pig tapeworm not only affects the pigs but is also hazardous to public health. In its immature stages, it can get into the muscles of the pigs and if humans consume the affected pork and it is under cooked, the worm can find it’s way to the spinal cord or brain causing neurocysticeroris. This will lead to psychiatric disturbances, difficulty with balance, headaches and finally death. Vigilant disease prevention measures including stringent hygiene protocols, quarantine practices and regular vaccinations are pivotal in preventing substantial losses caused by outbreaks.

Selling your pigs at the right time and the right weight will significantly impact profitability. It is important to minimize costs without compromising on the quality and this can be accomplished by prudent allocation, efficient feed management, breeding pigs for resale as pregnant sows in areas where there is high demand therefore offering an additional revenue stream. It is also advisable to ensure market readiness by establishing market connections through collaborating with wholesalers, retailers, marketers, and butcheries and even slaughter house owners to have a market for your pork products.

Potential Earnings and Considerations An efficiently managed pig can yield between six to eight piglets twice a year, providing an income of approximately KES 42,000 to KES 48,000 per year per pig. The sale of mature pigs, dependent on weight and market price, can generate substantial income, reaching KES 40,000 per pig.

Consider an initial investment in two pregnant pigs. Slaughtering the first bred 20 swines weighing around 60kg to 70kg after seven months can yield a profit of about KES 200,000. In areas with low pig farming activity, breeding and selling pregnant sows could generate around KES 365,000 within 7 to 8 months.

It’s essential to recognize that profitability depends on various factors such as feeding costs, veterinary services, and operational expenses. A well-structured business model and adherence to efficient farming practices are key to ensuring profitability in pig farming.

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With its exceptional growth potential and substantial market demand, pig farming has emerged as a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs across the country. This article delves into the nitty-gritty of pig farming, offering valuable insights and guidance for aspiring pig farmers in Kenya.

Pig Farming Business in Kenya

Pig farming involves raising pigs for commercial purposes such as meat production or breeding stock. In recent years, the demand for pork has been steadily increasing in Kenya due to various factors such as population growth, urbanization, and changing dietary preferences. As a result, pig farming has become an attractive industry that offers numerous opportunities for profit.

Advantages of Pig Farming

High-profit potential.

One of the primary advantages of pig farming is its high-profit potential. Compared to other livestock farming options, such as poultry or cattle rearing, pig farming offers a faster growth rate and higher profitability. Pigs are known to have a higher feed conversion efficiency, meaning they require less food input to produce more meat output. This translates into increased profitability for pig farmers.

Growth Potential

The demand for pork in Kenya has been steadily growing over the years. This presents a massive growth potential for pig farmers in the country. Furthermore, given the limited supply of pork in the market, there is an opportunity for small-scale pig farmers to cater to the increasing demand.

Versatile Product Demand

Pork is a versatile product with many applications in various cuisines and food products. The demand for pork is not limited to fresh meat but extends to processed products such as sausages, bacon, ham, and more. This diverse product demand provides pig farmers with multiple avenues for generating revenue.

Getting Started with Pig Farming in Kenya

Before venturing into pig farming, understanding the industry landscape and gaining practical knowledge will significantly increase your chances of success as a pig farmer.

Research and Training

Start by researching various aspects of pig farming, such as breeds, housing requirements, feeding practices, disease prevention and management strategies, and market trends. There are numerous resources available online through agricultural websites, forums, and publications that can provide valuable insights.

Additionally, consider enrolling in training programs or workshops on pig farming offered by agricultural extension offices or reputable farming organizations in Kenya. These training sessions will equip you with the practical skills and knowledge to run a profitable pig farm effectively.

Selecting the Right Breed

Choosing the appropriate breed of pig plays a crucial role in determining the success of your pig farming venture. There are various factors you should consider when selecting a breed:

• Market Demand : Research which breeds are most in demand in your target market. Some breeds may be more popular for their meat quality, while others may be preferred for breeding.
• Climate Compatibility : Consider the climatic conditions of your farm location. Certain pig breeds may be better suited to specific environments. For example, some breeds are more heat-tolerant, while others are adapted to colder regions.
• Growth Rate : Evaluate the growth rate of different pig breeds to determine which breed will provide you with a steady supply of pigs for sale.

Once you have researched thoroughly and acquired the necessary knowledge, it’s time to set up your pig farm.

Setting Up Your Pig Farm

Location and infrastructure.

The location of your pig farm plays a crucial role in its success. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a suitable location:

• Accessibility : Ensure your farm is easily accessible for transporting the pigs, feed, and other supplies.
• Availability of Water : Pigs require an adequate and consistent supply of water. Make sure there is a reliable water source on or near your farm.
• Proximity to Markets : Choose a location that allows easy access to potential buyers or marketplaces.
• Land Availability (Optional) : Ensure you have enough land for expansion as your business grows.

Once you have identified the right location, it’s time to set up the infrastructure required for your pig farm:

Housing Specification

Pigs require suitable housing facilities that provide them with a comfortable living environment. Here are some key factors to consider when constructing pig sheds:

• Ventilation : Provide proper ventilation within the housing facilities to ensure adequate airflow and control temperature and humidity levels.
• Space Requirements : Allocate sufficient space per pig depending on their age and size. Pigs need enough room to move around comfortably.
• Lighting : Install proper lighting systems that mimic natural lighting cycles to maintain healthy growth and behavior patterns in pigs.
• Flooring : Choose flooring materials that are easy to clean and disinfect, such as concrete floors.

Feeding and Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for the growth and overall health of your pigs. Developing a well-balanced feeding program will contribute to the productivity and profitability of your pig farm. Here are some key considerations for pig feeding:

• Basic Feed : Pigs require a mix of basic feed ingredients such as grains, protein sources (soybean meal, fish meal), vitamins, and minerals.
• Supplements : Provide additional nutritional supplements to enhance your pigs’ growth rate and overall health.
• Water Supply : Ensure a constant supply of clean drinking water for your pigs.

Disease Prevention and Management

Implementing robust disease prevention measures is also an important factor to safeguard the health of your pigs and reduce the risk of financial losses due to disease outbreaks. Here are some essential steps for disease prevention:

• Biosecurity Measures : Implement strict biosecurity protocols to minimize the risk of introducing diseases to your farm.
• Vaccinations : Follow recommended vaccination schedules to protect your pigs against common diseases.
• Regular Veterinary Check-ups : Establish a relationship with a veterinarian who can provide regular check-ups, diagnose diseases early on, and provide timely treatment.

Proper housing, nutrition, and disease prevention strategies will ensure the well-being of your pigs throughout their lifecycle.

Raising Pigs: From Birth to Slaughter

Raising pigs involves various stages that require specific care and management techniques. Here’s an overview of each stage:

Breeding and Reproduction

Successful breeding is an essential aspect of pig farming, ensuring a continuous supply of piglets for rearing or selling. Consider the following factors when planning for pig breeding:

• Selecting Breeding Stock : Choose healthy and genetically superior boars (males) and gilts (females) for breeding.
• Monitoring the Estrus Cycle : Track the estrus cycle of gilts to determine the optimal time for mating.
• Artificial Insemination : Consider artificial insemination techniques to improve breeding efficiency and access superior genetics.

Farrowing (Piglet Delivery)

Farrowing refers to the process of piglet delivery. Creating a conducive environment during this stage will ensure the survival and growth of newborn piglets. Take the following measures:

• Farrowing Pens : Provide separate farrowing pens equipped with heating lamps or mats to keep piglets warm.
• Cleanliness : Ensure a clean and hygienic environment to minimize the risk of infection in the mother pig and her offspring.
• Colostrum Feeding : Encourage piglets to suckle colostrum, which is rich in essential nutrients and antibodies, within a few hours of birth.

Taking Care of Piglets

Proper care during the early stages significantly impacts the health and growth rate of piglets. Here’s what you can do:

• Nutrition : Supplement sow’s milk with creep feed or pre-starter feed once piglets start nibbling. Gradually transition them into starter feed as they grow.
• Temperature Regulation : Continue providing adequate heating until piglets develop enough body fat. Avoid draughts that can cause chilling.
• Weaning Age : Wean piglets at about 8 weeks old when they are ready for solid feed.

Growing and Fattening Pigs

Once weaned, piglets transition into growing pigs that require a specialized feeding program to support their development:

• Feeding Program : Provide balanced diets that cater to their specific nutritional requirements at different growth stages.
• Monitor Growth Rate : Regularly weigh pigs to track their growth rate and adjust feeding quantities accordingly.
• Space Requirements : Allocate sufficient space to growing pigs to allow for unrestricted movement.

Monitor the overall health of your growing pigs and address any signs of illness promptly.

Marketing and Selling Your Pigs

After successfully raising your pigs, it’s time to market and sell them. Here are some avenues to explore:

Local Market Opportunities

Kenya’s local market offers immense potential for pig farmers. Consider the following options for selling your pigs locally:

• Butcheries and Meat Shops : Establish partnerships with local butcheries and meat shops.
• Hotels and Restaurants : Explore opportunities to supply pork products to hotels, restaurants, and catering businesses.
• Direct Sales : Promote your farm through word-of-mouth, social media marketing, or setting up your own farm shop.

Export Opportunities

There is also a growing demand for Kenyan pork products in international markets . Exporting pork requires complying with specific regulations for each target country:

• Market Research : Identify potential export markets by conducting thorough market research.
• Meeting Export Standards : Adhere to the export requirements set by the destination country regarding quality standards, packaging, labeling, and documentation.
• Establishing Networks with Exporters Seek partnerships with established exporters who can assist with logistics and market access.

Read Also: Rabbit Rearing Business in Kenya – A Profitable Opportunity

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BUSINESS PLAN FOR PIG FARMING

pork meat and breeding purposes....

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In the present study, we examined the development and organization of a rabbit-keeping unit, taking into account the ongoing economic crisis. Emphasis was given on the merchandising of innovative meat products and cold rabbit meat. Literature review and market research, using a questionnaire, helped us to compile the major elements of the study. The results of the study revealed a deficit in self-sufficiency of rabbit meat at national level, and a significant consumer interest in healthy foods, such as rabbit meat. Consumers prefer products with short preparation time, such as cold meat and meat products. The business plan is acceptable as to its realization, since it has been evaluated according to the basic economic methods. Moreover, it is concluded that there is much room for improvement in the promotion channels of this carcass. Therefore, this study can serve as a strategic planning guide for existing companies in the industry.

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Fruits leapfrog coffee in Kenya export earnings

A farmer inspects his avocado. Small-scale farmers-driven avocado farming has catapulted Kenya to amongst the top five producers.

By  Constant Munda

Business Reporter

Nation Media Group

Export earnings from fruits have overtaken those from coffee for the first time, official data shows, reflecting growing demand for Kenya’s avocado in traditional markets within the 27-member European Union and the United Kingdom.

Fresh data obtained from the Kenya Revenue Authority show earnings from exports of fruits amounted to $157 million (about Sh20.41 billion under prevailing conversion rate) in the half-year period ended June 2024.

The provisional data, collated by the Central Bank of Kenya, shows the value of fruit exports grew by nearly a fifth (18.94 percent) in the review period from $132 million (about Sh17.16 billion) a year ago.

PRIME Kenya’s trade deficit widens to Sh525bn on machinery orders

PRIME Horticulture exports rise to Sh47bn in first quarter

Income from sales of fruits abroad has now surpassed coffee whose income was $148 million in the January-June 2024 period compared with a year ago.

The Agriculture and Food Authority did not immediately offer an official response to our questions on drivers of growth of fruit exports amid struggles in the coffee sub-sector.

A senior official within AFA, who is not authorised to speak to the press, however, said the growth in earnings for fruits is majorly being driven by rising demand for avocado in European countries such as Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium as well as the UK.

“Avocados are the primary reason we are seeing growth in fruit exports. Of course, there are emerging markets like China, but our biggest consumer and driver of sales so far this year remains Europe. What is driving the growth for avocado is the EU market and the UK,” the AFA official told the Business Daily.

The largely small-scale farmers-driven avocado farming has in recent years catapulted Kenya to amongst the top five producers, behind leaders such as Mexico, Colombia, and Peru.

Analysts see avocado exports becoming a key contributor to Kenya’s foreign exchange, citing growing global demand for the fruit whose popularity is rising by the day.

Okisegere Ojepat, chief executive of Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya, says emerging Middle East and Far East markets have considerable potential to drive sales of avocado going forward in addition to the EU and the UK.

“Kenyans in the last five years have really planted more avocado fruits and the demand across the world is increasing, and so we’re going to see a sustained growth in exports despite the logistical challenges because of insecurity around the Red Sea,” Mr Ojepat said on phone.

“If all factors are held constant, we are going to see annual growth of between 12 to 15 percent in avocado exports, and we may start to report double-digit profitability. We are in the tropics and our fruit is preferred in terms of unique taste despite competition. There are many people looking at Kenya as their source of the fruit.”

Returns from the fruit, informally referred to as Kenya’s green gold mine in some quarters, are now threatening to overtake coffee going forward despite the latter being a priority for the Ruto administration.

Sales at Nairobi Coffee Exchange and exports are declining despite reforms led by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Billions of shillings have been pumped into the reforms, including a Sh2 billion budget for the current year ending June 2025.

Part of the reforms has seen farmers sell cherries through Capital Markets Authority-regulated brokers and payment cleared through a Direct settlement System run by the Co-operative Bank of Kenya in a bid to enhance transparency and accountability.

The data, nonetheless, shows that earnings from the export of Kenya’s coffee to key markets such as the US, EU bloc, and Republic of Korea cumulatively dipped in the half-year period.

Coffee earnings for the January-June period fell 11.38 percent from $167 million (Sh21.71 billion) a year earlier, according to the provisional trade data, falling behind fruits.

Read:  Capital goods imports rebound widen trade deficit

“The success of the industry hinges on adherence to quality standards and inclusive policies,” Dr George Njenga, director of Strathmore Research and Consultancy Company wrote in an article in the Business Daily in February.

“The efforts by both government and private sector initiatives are crucial in ensuring that Kenya’s avocados remain a sought-after commodity in the international market.”

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