By Prince Chese
FIVET Animal Health has called on small-scale and commercial farmers in Beitbridge to adopt proper broiler housing structures and maintain strict hygiene standards to improve productivity and increase profits.
The advice was given during a livestock training session held at Vhembe High School, where Lincoln Chingundu, Fivet Technical Advisor, highlighted how important well-designed and well-ventilated poultry houses promote bird health.
“Broiler houses should have a length of between 2.7 to 3 metres, with the lower portion made of brick and the upper section covered with mesh wire to allow sufficient airflow,” Chingundu said.
He said proper airflow helps create a comfortable environment for both the birds and the farmer.
He also noted that if farmers feel comfortable when entering the broiler house, it is a sign of a good ventilation system, which supports bird comfort and reduces stress levels that can negatively affect production.
On bird management, Chingundu warned against overcrowding, saying,”stocking density should not exceed 10 birds per square metre, especially on rough floors, to prevent overcrowding and disease outbreaks.”
Meanwhile, another expert at the training, Tinovonga Chemhazo, focused on the importance of proper cleaning and disinfection procedures in broiler production.
He recommended the use of Cislin at a ratio of 1ml per litre of water when cleaning feeding equipment, stressing that correct measurements are essential for effectiveness.
“For wet cleaning, use a hard broom and BioGen Super to scrub floors, then leave the surface wet for 15 to 20 minutes to kill insects before rinsing,” said Chemhazo.
He further advised farmers to apply Bio Pharm disinfectant mixed with water after cleaning to eliminate viruses such as Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD).
The training session equipped farmers with practical knowledge aimed at improving broiler health, reducing disease outbreaks and boosting overall profitability in poultry production.