Kenchic launches US$3.5M hatchery to boost poultry industry development in Uganda

UGANDA – Ugandan local subsidiary of Kenyan poultry giant Kenchic Limited has inaugurated a state-of-the-art hatchery in the Namanve industrial park with an aim to strengthen the country’s poultry sector.

The US$3.5 million facility is poised to be a game-changer for Uganda’s agricultural landscape, with expectations to create over 1,000 jobs by the end of 2024.

Livestock, contributing 5% to Uganda’s agricultural GDP, witnesses poultry as a pivotal growth segment due to increasing consumption.

The new hatchery aims to meet the surging demand for poultry products by producing improved breeds adapted to the country’s climate and breeding conditions.

Nomsa Mufandauya, Managing Director of Kenchic Uganda, highlighted that the investment would enable the company to produce between 300,000 and 500,000 chicks weekly, responding dynamically to market demands.

“The hatchery will significantly increase the supply of chicks, which will enable breeders to expand their operations and meet the growing demand for poultry products,” he said.

Peter Majorine, the hatchery director, shared that Kenchic’s initiative extends beyond production. The company is set to implement training programs for local breeders, focusing on livestock management, disease prevention, and market access.

The holistic approach is poised to elevate the expertise of Ugandan farmers, fostering sustainable practices in the industry.

The Ugandan Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, commended Kenchic’s commitment to community development, emphasizing the government’s continuous support for investors prioritizing job creation and community upliftment.

“Collaboration harnesses collective expertise from both sectors, and Kenchic’s commitment to harmonious collaboration with the government showcases the power of unity,” she stated.

“Uganda, traditionally importing chicks from distant countries, is expected to benefit significantly from Kenchic’s local presence.”

Nabbanja expressed her optimism, noting that the expansion of the Kenyan firm to Uganda is a blessing to Ugandan farmers.

In addition, Dr. Nomsa Mufandauya, the general manager of Kenchic Uganda, highlighted the company’s purpose of enabling shared prosperity through sustainable food production.

“Beyond profit-making, Kenchic aims to support local communities, recognizing poultry farming as a fundamental pillar of the economy,” Nomsa added.

The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Vicent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, emphasized the strategic importance of Kenchic Uganda in averting reliance on poultry imports from regions affected by diseases.

“Kenchic Limited’s investment in Uganda marks a significant milestone for the country’s poultry sector, promising economic growth, job creation, and sustainable agricultural practices,” he added.

“The government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives underscores the collaborative efforts driving innovation and efficiency in Uganda’s agricultural landscape.”

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