How to build a poultry house in Kenya
Building a poultry house in Kenya is one of the most important investments for any farmer who wants to succeed in chicken farming. A good poultry house provides safety, comfort, and the right environment for your birds to grow and produce efficiently. Whether you are keeping broilers, layers, or indigenous kienyeji chickens, proper housing ensures healthier birds and higher profits.
1. Planning and Site Selection
Before construction begins, take time to plan. Proper planning saves money and reduces costly mistakes.
Determine Your Flock Size
Decide how many birds you intend to keep. This determines the house size, spacing, and number of drinkers or feeders required. Overcrowding leads to disease outbreaks and poor growth.
Choose a Good Location
Pick a dry, well-drained area with good shade and free air movement. Avoid low-lying grounds that retain water. The poultry house should be built away from other livestock units to minimize disease spread.
Decide on House Design and Materials
Select a design that suits your budget and scale. Small-scale farmers can use simple open-sided structures, while commercial farmers can invest in semi-permanent or permanent houses. Use affordable and available materials such as timber, iron sheets, or bricks.
2. Design Specifications and Structure
House Size and Layout
The ideal width for a naturally ventilated poultry house should not exceed nine metres. This allows proper airflow across the building. The length can vary depending on the number of birds. A height of at least two metres helps maintain good air circulation.
Create a simple layout that includes feeding areas, drinkers, perches, and nest boxes if you are keeping layers. Provide space for easy movement and cleaning.
Floor and Foundation
A concrete floor is best because it is durable, easy to clean, and prevents predators from burrowing in. If you choose a soil or sand floor, cover the edges with wire mesh to prevent rats and snakes from entering. The foundation should be strong enough to support the structure and protect against water seepage.
Frame, Walls, and Roofing
Use treated timber or metal for the frame to ensure durability. Extend the roof beyond the walls to protect the birds from rain. Open-sided houses with wire mesh allow good airflow while keeping predators away. In hot areas, avoid using iron sheets directly on top without insulation, as they trap too much heat.
Ventilation and Lighting
Proper ventilation helps remove excess heat, moisture, and ammonia. Ensure both sides of the house have large openings covered with wire mesh. Natural lighting through clear roofing sheets or windows keeps birds active and productive.
3. Installing Equipment and Fittings
Nest Boxes, Perches, and Bedding
For layers, provide one nest box for every five hens. Position the boxes above the ground in darker, quieter corners. Add perches for the birds to rest and sleep. Use wood shavings or dry grass as litter on the floor to absorb droppings and keep the house clean.
Feeders and Drinkers
Provide enough feeders and drinkers to ensure all birds can access food and water comfortably. Clean them daily to prevent disease spread. The 6 L Manual Chicken Drinker from Mkulima Jovial is an excellent option for small and medium-scale farmers because it is durable, easy to clean, and prevents water spillage. You can get it here: [https://mkulimajovial.co.ke/product/6-ltrs-chicken-drinker/](https://mkulimajovial.co.ke/product/6-ltrs-chicken-drinker/)
Biosecurity and Hygiene
Install a footbath with disinfectant at the entrance to reduce disease introduction. Keep visitors away from the poultry house. Clean and disinfect the floor, feeders, and drinkers regularly.
4. Step-by-Step Poultry House Construction / how to build a poultry house in Kenya
- Clear and level the building site.
- Mark the floor plan according to your chosen dimensions.
- Dig trenches for the foundation and pour concrete footing.
- Construct the frame using treated timber or metal.
- Install the roof with proper slope and overhangs.
- Build the sidewalls and attach wire mesh for ventilation.
- Fix the doors and windows securely to prevent predators.
- Install feeders, drinkers, nest boxes, and perches.
- Spread litter evenly on the floor.
- Disinfect the entire house before introducing birds.
- Finishing Touches and Startup Tips
After building, inspect the structure carefully for leaks or loose fittings. Ensure proper ventilation and check that the roof provides shade without overheating the house.
When introducing birds, clean and fill the drinkers with fresh water and add feed to the trays. Keep chicks warm if brooding. Monitor temperature, humidity, and behavior during the first week to ensure comfort.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
* Building on poorly drained sites that collect water.
* Using untreated timber that rots quickly.
* Ignoring ventilation, leading to heat stress.
* Overcrowding the birds.
* Failing to secure the house from predators.
* Neglecting routine cleaning and disinfection.
7. Cost and Benefits
The total cost of building a poultry house in Kenya depends on its size, materials, and design. However, even a simple structure built with local materials can last several years if maintained properly. The benefits of a well-constructed poultry house include reduced losses, lower disease risk, and higher egg or meat production.
8. Summary
Knowing how to build a poultry house in Kenya is essential for every farmer who wants a profitable poultry business. A well-planned house ensures your chickens stay healthy, comfortable, and productive. Focus on proper site selection, good ventilation, hygiene, and reliable equipment.
Call to Action:
Start your poultry project today by building the right house and equipping it with reliable tools. Visit Mkulima Jovial and order the 6 L Manual Chicken Drinker to keep your chickens hydrated and your farm productive.