Performance, Management Practices, and Economic Viability of Tanbro Chicken Production Among Smallholder Poultry Farmers in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania

Abstract

Aims: This study assessed the performance, management practices, and economic viability of Tanbro chicken production among smallholder poultry farmers in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. Study Design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. Methodology: A survey involving the enumeration of 50 respondents using a structured questionnaire was conducted to collect data on demographics, feeding practices, health management, economics, and constraints of Tanbro chicken farming. Although the study used a cross-sectional design with descriptive analysis and focused mainly on farm-level challenges, it provides valuable baseline insights into Tanbro chicken management, performance, and profitability, highlighting key areas for future research and improvement. Results: Results revealed that Tanbro farming is dominated by women (60%) who have moderate education levels. Farmers mainly use commercial feeds, though high feed costs remain a major challenge. Average chick mortality was 5%, with most farmers adopting vaccination and moderate biosecurity practices. Profitability analysis indicated an average net profit of Tanzania shillings 1,769,090 per production cycle, with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.48. The feed cost per kg live weight of sold Tanbro chicken was Tanzanian Shillings 4,630.5/=. The most Key challenges identified included the high feed costs and limited technical knowledge on feed formulation. Conclusion: The study recommends establishing adequate number of local feed mills so as to increase the supply for the commercial feeds to all poultry keepers, expanding farmer trainings, and improving access to quality inputs in order to enhance chicken farming sustainability and profitability.