A Review Of Pig Production In Western Kenya: Current Status And Future Trends In Changing Environment

Abstract

Pigs, whether pure, crossbred or non-descript (local) breeds, play a significant role in the Kenyan economy. This paper specifically addresses potential opportunities and constraints associated with small-holder pig farming in Western Kenya. Community perceptions about local pig keeping and the potential impact this has on productivity are discussed. Current management practices, feeding regimes, disease control strategies, sow breeding and welfare issues are highlighted. The challenge of pig housing is discussed in details; non-confined pigs can destroy household crops, threaten food security and even cause community conflicts. Since the goal of pig production is to produce pork using least costs, the potential use of local feedstuffs as cheap ingredients for pig feeding has been discussed. The safety of pork at the local butcher shops is also discussed. Disease threats including African swine fever, Taenia solium cysticercosis and H1N1 are discussed. The role of breeding pigs in sustaining the pig sector is discussed. Opportunities for improved marketing both within and outside the villages are explored. Economics of local pork business is discussed. The role of research and extension in an integrated pig farming system is discussed. It is concluded that pig farming in Western Kenya has a huge but under-utilized potential to enhance productivity, improve livelihoods and reduce rural poverty.