Poultry Farming In North Africa
Poultry farming is a vital component of North Africa's agricultural landscape, contributing significantly to food security, employment, and economic development in the region. The industry encompasses both large-scale commercial operations and traditional smallholder farming, each playing a distinct role in meeting the growing demand for poultry products.
Egypt:
- Egypt: Leading the continent, Egypt's poultry sector boasts a substantial chicken population, with approximately 300 million heads as of 2022.Cairo Poultry Company (CPC), a subsidiary of Kuwait Food Company, stands out as the nation's largest broiler producer, processing around 75 million chickens annually.
Morocco:
- Morocco: The Moroccan poultry industry has experienced significant growth, with production increasing from 55,000 tons of meat and 278 million eggs in 1981 to 625,000 tons of meat and 5.5 billion eggs in 2021. This expansion underscores the sector's role in enhancing food security and providing affordable protein sources.
Senegal:
- Senegal: In response to challenges posed by low-quality imports, Senegal implemented a ban on imported frozen chicken in 2005. This policy shift led to a 21% increase in local production, with the poultry sector contributing 17% to the animal industry's GDP and employing approximately 10,000 people.
The North African poultry industry faces several challenges, including disease management, competition from imports, and the need for modernization. The outbreak of avian influenza, for instance, has necessitated stringent biosecurity measures and regional cooperation. The establishment of the Regional Animal Health Center for North Africa (RAHC-NA) in 2007 exemplifies efforts to coordinate strategies for controlling animal diseases, including zoonoses and avian influenza.
Opportunities for growth in the sector are abundant. The rising global demand for poultry meat and eggs presents lucrative prospects for North African producers. Embracing digital technologies can further enhance productivity and efficiency, positioning the region to meet both domestic and international market demands.
In summary, poultry farming in North Africa is a dynamic and essential industry with significant contributions to the region's economy and food systems. Addressing existing challenges through innovation and regional collaboration can unlock the sector's full potential, ensuring its continued growth and sustainability.