Togo’s poultry production reaches 38.6 million heads in 2024

TOGO – Togo’s poultry sector has seen a notable rise in production, reaching 38.6 million heads in 2024, as reported by the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Livestock.

This figure aligns with the government’s earlier forecast of 38 million for the year, marking an 8% increase over the previous year’s production of 35.7 million.

The Plateaux region maintained its lead as the top poultry-producing area, contributing 13 million heads or approximately 34% of the national output, a slight increase from over 12 million in 2023.

Savanes followed with 8 million heads, matching its production in both 2023 and 2022, while the Central, Kara, and Maritime regions produced 6 million, 5 million, and 4.8 million heads, respectively.

Authorities are projecting an even higher output for the industry in 2025, estimating that production will surpass 41 million heads.

Beyond simply meeting production targets, the government has emphasized its goal of developing a stronger value chain within the poultry industry.

HPAI Outbreaks Disrupt Poultry Farms

Togo recently faced multiple outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), with the first confirmed cases occurring between mid-February and mid-March.

The initial outbreak took place in the Centrale region, where approximately 80% of the 2,928 affected poultry perished after the virus was identified as part of the H5 group.

A second outbreak in Centrale in late March involved 185 birds, while additional cases emerged in the Maritime region, affecting 2,050 and 3,439 birds at two separate farms.

The most recent outbreak occurred near the border with Benin, within a 10km radius, further complicating the situation for local poultry farmers.

These outbreaks marked the first HPAI cases in Togo’s poultry sector in seven months, following a period of relative stability.

General Yark Damehame, the Minister for Animal Resources, announced measures to address the spread of bird flu, including the culling of infected poultry, farm disinfection, a one-month ban on poultry movement, and the temporary closure of markets and feed mills in affected regions. 

To support breeders during this period, the government pledged compensation based on current market prices. 

The Ministry urged breeders and traders to adhere strictly to these regulations. 

Officials stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance to safeguard public health and ensure the sustainability of Togo’s poultry industry.

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