[Mkulima Jovial]

Mkulima Jovial Team Response:

With a budget of KSh 20,000, it is advisable to start small and focus on good management.

You can consider:
– 50–70 broiler chicks for a short production cycle
OR
– 50 improved kienyeji chicks for longer-term growth

Budget allocation should include:
– Chicks
– Feeds (at least 4–6 weeks supply)
– Basic feeders and drinkers
– Vaccines and brooding equipment

Start with proper housing and temperature control, especially in the first 2 weeks.

Good planning and record keeping are more important than starting big.

[Mkulima Jovial]

Mkulima Jovial Team Response:

Space requirements depend on the age and size of the pigs.

As a general guide:
– Weaners: 0.3–0.5 square meters per pig
– Growers: 0.6–0.8 square meters per pig
– Finishers: 0.8–1 square meter per pig

For 10 growing pigs, you should plan for approximately 6–8 square meters total space.

Good ventilation, proper drainage, and dry flooring are equally important to prevent stress and disease.

Avoid overcrowding as it reduces feed efficiency and increases disease risk.

[Mkulima Jovial]

Mkulima Jovial Team Response:

In zero grazing systems, milk production largely depends on feed quality and consistency.

Key areas to check:

1. Forage Quality – Use high-quality silage or Napier grass harvested at the correct stage.
2. Concentrates – Provide dairy meal based on milk yield (approximately 1kg dairy meal per 2–3 litres of milk produced).
3. Mineral Supplements – Include dairy mineral premix regularly.
4. Clean Water – Ensure unlimited access to clean water.

Consistency in feeding times and avoiding sudden ration changes is also important.

Improving feed quality and balance often improves milk yield significantly.

[Mkulima Jovial]

Mkulima Jovial Team Response:

For 100 broiler chicks (week 1–4), proper spacing and equipment placement is very important to avoid stress and competition.

Week 1–2:
You can use:
– 4 chick trays or small feeders
– 4–5 manual drinkers (1.5L–3L)

From week 3–4:
You should transition to:
– 4–5 feeders (3kg–6kg size depending on growth)
– 4–5 drinkers (6L recommended)

As a general guide:
1 drinker serves about 20–25 chicks when using manual drinkers.
1 feeder serves about 20–25 chicks depending on size.

Avoid overcrowding around equipment and distribute evenly in the house.

Proper equipment planning reduces feed wastage and improves uniform growth.

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