Chicken Farming: Types of Chickens, Capital Required, Building Cost, Market Benefits, and Broilers vs Layers Explained

 

Chicken farming has become one of the fastest-growing agribusiness opportunities in Kenya and across the world. With increasing demand for poultry products such as eggs and meat, many entrepreneurs are venturing into poultry farming. However, success in this business requires proper planning, understanding of the types of chickens, initial capital, building cost, and knowledge of the market.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about chicken farming, including the difference between broilers and layers, so you can make the best decision before starting.

1. Types of Chickens for Farming

When starting chicken farming, it’s important to know the common types of chickens reared:

1. Broilers – Chickens raised mainly for meat production. They grow very fast (ready in 5–7 weeks).

2. Layers – Chickens reared for egg production. They begin laying eggs at around 18–20 weeks and continue for 1–2 years.

3. Kienyeji (Indigenous Chickens) – Local breeds known for their resilience, tasty meat, and organic appeal. They fetch high prices in the market.

4. Hybrid/Kuroiler Chickens – Cross-breed of local and exotic chickens. They are hardy, grow faster, and lay more eggs than kienyeji.

2. Capital Required to Start Chicken Farming

The amount of capital required depends on the scale of farming:

• Small-scale (100–200 birds): Ksh 50,000 – 120,000

• Medium-scale (500–1,000 birds): Ksh 250,000 – 600,000

• Large-scale (5,000+ birds): Ksh 2 million and above

This capital covers:

• Cost of day-old chicks

• Housing (poultry house construction)

• Feeds and supplements

• Vaccination and veterinary services

• Equipment (feeders, drinkers, lighting, heaters)

3. Poultry House (Building) Cost

A proper chicken house is crucial for successful farming. The cost depends on materials used and the number of birds:

• Small-scale poultry house (100 birds): Ksh 20,000 – 40,000

• Medium-scale house (500–1,000 birds): Ksh 100,000 – 350,000

• Large-scale house (5,000 birds and above): Ksh 500,000 – 2 million

Tips for constructing a poultry house:

• Ensure proper ventilation and lighting.

• Use wire mesh for airflow and temperature regulation.

• The floor should be raised and easy to clean.

• Provide adequate spacing: 1 square foot per bird for broilers, and 1.5–2 square feet per bird for layers.

4. Market Benefits of Chicken Farming

Chicken farming is profitable because poultry products are in constant demand.

• Eggs: Highly consumed daily in homes, hotels, and institutions. One layer can lay 250–300 eggs per year.

• Meat: Broilers are in high demand by hotels, restaurants, and fast-food joints.

• Kienyeji (indigenous): Premium market prices due to their organic nature.

• Manure: Poultry waste is used as organic fertilizer, creating an extra source of income.

5. Difference Between Broilers and Layers

To decide whether to rear broilers or layers, you must understand their differences:

Feature	Broilers (Meat Production)	Layers (Egg Production)
Purpose	Meat production	Egg production
Growth period	5–7 weeks to maturity	Start laying at 18–20 weeks, produce eggs up to 2 years
Feeding cost	High – protein-rich feeds for fast growth	Moderate – but needs calcium-rich diet
Market demand	Hotels, restaurants, households	Schools, bakeries, shops, households
Profit cycle	Short-term, fast returns	Long-term, steady income
Housing space	Requires less space per bird	Requires more space and nesting boxes

In summary:

• Choose broilers if you want quick returns (meat business).

• Choose layers if you want long-term and consistent income from eggs.

• Some farmers combine both for maximum profitability.

Chicken farming is one of the most lucrative agribusinesses today. With proper planning, enough capital, and knowledge of the types of chickens, housing, and market demand, farmers can achieve great success. Whether you choose to rear broilers or layers, the key to profitability lies in good management, quality feeds, proper vaccination, and understanding your target market.