US investor eyes poultry industry in Rwanda
Rwanda’s unexploited poultry business is set for a boost following the interest of an American investor. Agnes kalibata, the Minister of Agriculture said that the new investment will greatly increase the production of poultry products in the country, bridging the national supply deficit of both broilers and layers.
National production is estimated at only 5,000 chicks per month compared to the demand of 40,000. “The industry has huge potential but is challenged by capacity and infrastructure,” she said. The Minister said that the investor is expected to commence operations in the first quarter of 2010 and will focus on foreign markets.
Two hatcheries in Bugesera and Musanze districts will be established through a joint venture with Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest processors and distributors of chicken, beef and pork. Kalibata, who declined to mention the investor’s name, said the investor is currently working on issues related to bio-safety, capacity and development of personnel skills.
Government also plans to establish hatcheries in other districts, increasing the production four times and catering for 50 per cent of the demand. Between October 2008 and August 2009, the national hatchery produced over 200,000 day-old chicks and about 500,000 eggs.
Join 31,000+ subscribers
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated about all the need-to-know content in the poultry sector, three times a week.
