Improved might sound interesting when talking about chicken. What really does improved chicken have that the normal kienyeji chicken does not have? The KARI improved kienyeji chicken is a special breed slightly different from the local breeds we normally breed in our homes or backyards. One important factor that you need to take note of is that they come with higher level of returns and better yields. The new breeds underwent a lot of research as well as trial and error and intensive interbreeding before being released into the market. They are bigger, better and more profitable.
Some of the benefits that poultry farmers enjoy with the KARI improved kienyeji chicken include amongst others:-
- Shorter maturing period
- Diseases resistant
- Low maintenance cost
- Low feeding and maintenance level
- Larger and healthier eggs
- Higher and better quality meat
- Cheaper to maintain
KARI ensures that at the time of purchase, poultry farmers are only given vaccinated chicken. Farmers are also given vaccination rules and guidelines to help them keep the chicken disease free all their life time. Because of this, these improved chickens are able to give higher weights thereby earning the farmers more money and or revenue.
There is also a handbook detailing the process of how to effectively benefit from KARI improved kienyeji chicken. Farmers also undergo training which in many occasions is organized by KARI for their large numbers of growing clientele. Such training include:-
- How to care for the chickens
- Required structures which should be up to standard
- Feeding program – what kind of foods are best and the best diet
- How handle drinking water which is a very important subject
- Vaccinations – when these should be undertaken
- Hygiene and proper handling of chicken at the sale point
The KARI improved kienyeji chicken feeds on natural products as much as possible. They feed on easy to access products like green grams, maize, kale just to name a few. Another important factor that should never be forgotten is grass. Grass helps in digestion and should not be omitted at whatever part of the diet. Chickens that are not caged normally have the chance to enjoy their grass meal while out scavenging. Chicken eat grass once in the course of the day and as discussed earlier should be made part of their normal day diet.
Lastly, KARI improved kienyeji chicken also feed on termites and ants. These can be homegrown as stated in the handbook. Feeders should be kept clean to avoid infection of any kind. Water should be availed for most part of the day. Buy feeders that are sturdy and can withstand a lot of movements. Ensure that you add to their feeds additional minerals which they might miss during their scavenging journey. Just like their other counterparts, the KARI chicken should also be kept safe and away from predators which are always out looking for an easy meal. Ensure that the cage have enough lighting, ventilation, space and security.