Murang’a, Kenya – Amidst an unprecedented surge in demand for chicken and related products due to the country’s growing urbanized population, Paul Wacira, a thriving entrepreneur and hatchery owner in Murang’a, is encouraging young people to venture into the poultry business.

According to Kenya News Agency, who has been operating his hatchery since 2015, the high demand for chicken cannot currently be satisfied, presenting a lucrative opportunity for youth. He highlights that poultry farming is not labor-intensive and can be done in small spaces, making it an ideal venture even for those in urban areas. “Selling an egg might bring in Sh. 20 to 25, but if you add value to it by turning it into a day-old chick, you can earn no less than Sh. 100,” Wacira explains.

To begin a hatchery, one needs to invest in an incubator, with prices ranging from Sh. 40,000 for a 264 egg capacity unit to Sh. 90,000 for a 1064 egg capacity unit. Wacira recommends locally assembled incubators as they are easier and cheaper to repair in case of malfunctions. He stresses the importance of having a consistent supply of high-quality eggs and choosing a breeding flock that meets both customer needs and profitability.

Furthermore, he points out the necessity of selecting healthy eggs from well-nourished chickens that grow quickly, produce well, and have strong disease resistance. He warns that the viability of eggs decreases after seven days, emphasizing the need to incubate eggs that are in good condition, free of cracks, and handled properly.

Reliable power is also crucial, as outages can disrupt the incubation process. “If power cuts are common in your area, it’s wise to have a backup and ensure the incubator is well-ventilated,” Wacira advises.

Wacira, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from Kenyatta University, operates his hatchery at a remarkable scale, hatching over 40 chicks per week. He sells the chicks from a day old to a month old, ranging from Sh. 100 to Sh. 200. Additionally, he offers hatching services to clients at Sh. 20 per egg, earning an average monthly profit of Sh. 30,000.

The entrepreneur shares that the hatching process spans 21 days; eggs are incubated for 19 days before being moved to the hatchery compartment for hatching, followed by 7 to 14 days of brooding. Wacira concludes by advising aspiring hatchery owners to start small, remain consistent, and prioritize excellent customer service, as customer referrals are crucial to a hatchery’s success.