Africa’s dual-purpose poultry chick market reaches 225 mln birds

Sales of day-old dual-purpose chicks in Africa reached 225 mln birds in 2025, according to the first comprehensive industry survey conducted by the World Poultry Foundation. The study covered 33 African countries and 72 companies, which the researchers estimate represent approximately 94% of the market. East Africa accounted for the largest share of sales, with around 140 mln chicks sold, representing nearly two-thirds of the continental total.

Despite the relatively even distribution of poultry businesses across regions, production volumes vary significantly. Southern Africa accounts for just 2.3% of total sales, although the number of companies in the region is comparable to East Africa. Meanwhile, demand continues to grow, with two-thirds of surveyed businesses reporting higher sales in 2025. Hatcheries in East Africa are already operating at 96% of capacity, compared with 78% in West Africa, limiting opportunities for further production growth.

The main obstacles to industry development remain unreliable electricity supplies, limited access to financing and disruptions in veterinary vaccine availability. Around one-third of surveyed companies identified these issues as significant constraints. Small businesses are particularly affected, facing high interest rates, currency risks and difficulties maintaining uninterrupted hatchery operations.

Meanwhile, dual-purpose poultry offers substantial productivity advantages over traditional local breeds. These chickens can produce 130–175 eggs annually, compared with 30–60 eggs from conventional village chickens. They reach market weight in 84–91 days, while traditional breeds require around 255 days. In addition, mortality rates in dual-purpose flocks are below 15%, compared with more than 40% in traditional village poultry systems. These characteristics make dual-purpose birds particularly attractive for smallholder farms operating with limited inputs.

Despite its considerable potential, Africa’s dual-purpose poultry market remains dependent on imported breeding stock, with around 85% of parent stock sourced from abroad. Meanwhile, companies that have received donor support account for 35% of surveyed businesses but generate 88% of reported sales. According to the World Poultry Foundation, further sector growth will depend on expanding hatchery capacity, improving access to vaccines and financing, and increasing farmers’ awareness of the productivity benefits of dual-purpose poultry.

Tags: Poultry, Africa