Poultry farmers decry exploitation, seek fair market practices in Nairobi

Farmers claim that powerful middlemen and wholesalers have created a monopolistic pricing system that forces them to sell their chickens at drastically reduced prices, putting many in financial difficulty.

Farmers in Kiambu and Machakos, who rely heavily on City Market for sales, report that their situation has deteriorated dramatically in recent years.

Chicken prices have dropped significantly, leaving farmers unable to cover essential expenses.

“Last year, I sold a chicken for 600 shillings. Now I’m lucky if I get 250,” said John Mwangi, a poultry farmer with over a decade of experience. “It’s impossible to make a living like this.”

Farmers claim that cartels consisting of influential wholesalers and middlemen control market pricing dynamics.

These cartels set prices based on their own profit margins, leaving farmers with no option but to sell their chickens at low prices.

As a result, many farmers are struggling to meet the rising costs of feed, veterinary care, and farm maintenance.

Grace Achieng, a mother of four and poultry farmer, described how she was forced to sell her chickens for a loss due to rising feed prices.

“I sold them for 200 shillings each just to pay off debts,” she said. “I’m afraid I’ll lose everything.”

In response to the worsening situation, farmers are increasingly turning to the government for help. 

Over 200 farmers attended a recent meeting organised by the Nairobi Poultry Farmers Association to express their dissatisfaction and demand action.

"We need the government to step in and protect us," said Samuel Ndung'u, the association's chairman.

“Without regulations, these cartels will continue destroying our livelihoods. We cannot compete against their manipulations.”

The farmers are calling for the establishment of a transparent pricing mechanism that reflects the actual cost of production. 

They are also urging authorities to enforce laws that prevent monopolistic practices in the market.

While the plight of Nairobi’s poultry farmers is beginning to draw attention, they stress that concrete action is necessary. 

Experts suggest that strengthening cooperatives could help farmers negotiate better prices collectively and reduce their dependence on middlemen. 

Furthermore, increased access to financial management and sustainable farming education could aid in the development of more resilient businesses.

Advocacy groups are also pressing the government to develop policies that support small-scale farmers, promote fair market practices, and encourage sustainable agriculture.