Abstract:
The value chain approach embraces the full range of activities which are required to bring a product or service from conception, through the intermediary phases of production, delivery to final consumers, and final disposal after use. Traditionally extension agents have concentrated their efforts on technology transfer that targeted production aspects of a poultry and ignored other factors of the value chain. Most farmers specialize in production and may be excluded from decision making about issues that affect them outside their farms. There exists a knowledge gap of what potential there is for income generation and employment creation in the indigenous poultry value chain. Despite their hard work farmers continue to have low incomes resulting into low living standards. There are several factors that influence the indigenous poultry value chain. This study aimed to explore how selected factors of disease control, credit, market infrastructure, and skills development affect the development of the indigenous poultry production value chain in Vihiga District. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population consisted of 600 farmers who were members of 30 local poultry commercialization Common Interest Groups, 17 Agrovet attendants, 20 local poultry traders, and seven Field Extension Officers. A random sample of 103 farmers was drawn using purposive sampling method. Quota sampling was used to sample nine agrovets, and ten local poultry traders. All the seven extension staff were included in the study. The reliability coefficient for the farmers’ instrument obtained was 0.87. This was considered adequate for the study. Data was analyzed using frequencies, means and multiple regression at p = 0.05. Results from the study indicated that reconstitution of the Newcastle vaccine and market access had statistically significant effects on the development of the indigenous poultry value chain in Vihiga District. Additionally market facilities for slaughter, cold storage and dedicated sell outlets for table birds were completely lacking in all the major market centers in the study area. Extension agents should embrace the value chain approach and provide information on marketing. Local authorities in consultation with relevant technical departments to invest in market infrastructure at fresh produce markets that will enhance sales of table birds and other poultry products.
