By Baakedi Rachidi
Mr. Kevin Pieterse (left) from Kyron Agri emphasised that “management is the most important thing,” while Mr. Zac van Aswegen (right) from Alzu delivered a presentation on the importance of broiler feed.
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with NTK and Alzu, hosted a Farmers’ Day at Makobe Tribal Hall in Mogalakwena, within the Waterberg District.
The initiative aimed at enhancing farmers’ knowledge and practical skills in broiler and layer production through direct engagement with agricultural experts.
Farmers received training on important aspects of poultry production, with experts from Alzu, NTK and Kyron Agri sharing technical information and responding to questions from participants. An important component of the training was the management of temperature and ventilation in poultry housing. Farmers were advised against using coal as a primary heat source for chickens, as smoke can negatively affect air quality, while combustion can reduce oxygen levels and produce dangerous carbon monoxide. The commonly used red heat lamp was highlighted as a practical heating option, with guidance that it should be positioned approximately one metre above ground level.
Kevin Pieterse from Kyron Agri emphasised that “management is the most important thing.” He highlighted several critical factors that determine flock performance, including chick quality, lighting, ventilation, temperature, access to adequate water and feed troughs, bedding, stocking density, cleaning and disinfection. He further emphasised the importance of identifying the underlying causes of poor flock health, noting “You treat the disease and the deficiency.” This reinforces the need for farmers to address not only diseases when they occur, but also nutritional and management deficiencies that may compromise poultry health and productivity.
The training ultimately reinforced that successful poultry production depends on consistent, informed and good management throughout the production cycle.
A farmer (left) attentively reviewing the information provided in the booklet, while others (right) pay attention to presenters during farmers day held at Makobe Tribal Hall.
