Wednesday, September 24, 2025 by Mthobisi Buthelezi

 

Africa Chicks has been the number one supplier of internationally recognised high-quality poultry breeds and they proudly operate in Eswatini, Mozambique and South Africa (SA).

The Eswatini base specialises in hatching quality broiler day-old chicks and this team has been rearing quality birds for more than two decades. They have a close team dedicated to producing the finest quality poultry to a range of suppliers and the hatchery is based at Ngwenya on the main border between Eswatini and the SA.

“Our broiler birds are best recognised as members of the Aviagen and Cobb gene pool, internationally recognised breeds guaranteeing the highest quality poultry. While we do supply both our local and neighbouring markets, we are looking towards setting up complete replica operations in other African countries.

“While the market is hugely prolific and highly competitive, we have experienced positive growth in our own capacity, as well as in the poultry market as a whole and we look forward to another period of growth and expansion of our current operations,” said Africa Chicks Operations Director Julia Saulus.

 

Empowering Eswatini’s small-scale poultry farmers

Focus on the small grower: “Did you know that over 60 per cent of our chicks go directly to small-scale Eswatini farmers through our network of nine Africa Chicks shops and distribution points? We believe in empowering these local heroes who are vital to our nation’s food security,” mentioned the director.

A reliable partner: During times of shortage, whether due to border closures or seasonal peaks, Africa Chicks prioritises supporting their small-scale growers. “You can count on us to be a dependable source for your poultry needs,” she added.

Beyond production: Saulus went on to add that they understand that agriculture has a broader impact. “From changing dietary habits to empowering women in the agricultural sector, we’re committed to the positive societal effects of our practices,” said Saulus.

 

Nurturing Eswatini’s poultry potential

At Africa Chicks, their mission extends beyond simply supplying poultry. “We’re dedicated to fostering a thriving poultry industry throughout Eswatini, with a particular focus on empowering the backbone of our nation’s agriculture; small-scale farmers.

“We believe that by supporting these local heroes, we can achieve a double win. First, we contribute to the overall growth and stability of the poultry sector, providing a dependable source of high-quality chicks for Eswatini’s poultry production.

“Secondly, we invest in the economic prosperity of rural communities. By equipping small-scale farmers with the resources and knowledge they need to succeed, we create jobs, generate income and ensure a sustainable food supply for all emaSwati,” said the director.

This commitment to small-scale farmers isn’t just a tagline; it’s woven into the fabric of their operations. From their network of conveniently located Africa Chicks shops and distribution points to their targeted programmes and resources, they’re dedicated to making poultry farming a viable and rewarding path for Eswatini’s small-scale growers.

 

Best practices for brooding broiler chicks to ensure their healthy growth and development:

1. Maintain optimal temperature: Start with a temperature of around 32-35°C for the first week. Gradually decrease the temperature by 3°C each week until reaching 21°C. Use heat lamps or brooders to provide consistent warmth.

2. Provide adequate space: Ensure enough space for chicks to move freely. A general guideline is about 10- 15birds/square metre for open-sided housing, depending on season. Overcrowding can lead to stress and health issues.

3. Ensure proper ventilation: Good air quality is essential. Ensure proper ventilation without drafts. This helps maintain a comfortable temperature and reduces the risk of respiratory issues.

4. Nutrition and water access: Provide a balanced starter feed formulated for broiler chicks. Ensure clean, fresh water is available at all times. Chicks should have easy access to both feed and water to promote healthy growth.

5. Monitor health regularly: Keep an eye on the chicks for any signs of illness or distress. Look for symptoms like abnormal behaviour or changes in appetite. Promptly address any health issues with veterinary assistance if needed.

By following these tips, you can create a safe and healthy environment for your broiler chicks, promoting their growth and development.