German-engineered cages promise 20-year lifespan for Uganda’s poultry farmers

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The steady clucking of hens, the warm scent of feed and the rhythmic roll of freshly laid eggs are familiar sounds on Uganda’s poultry farms.

But behind every productive layer house lies a critical investment of durable, efficient cages that can withstand years of tropical heat and humidity.

Many poultry farmers across Uganda are now seeking long-lasting, affordable layer cage systems that can boost productivity while cutting losses.

At the Vision Group Harvest Money Expo held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds from February 27 to March 1, 2026, German firm Hellmann Poultry Equipment showcased housing solutions designed specifically for such needs.

Volker Heidtmann, the area sales manager at Hellmann Poultry Equipment, said their cages are steel-coated with a zinc-aluminium finish, giving them a lifespan of up to 20 years.

“Our cages are made for the tropical market,” Heidtmann explained. “They are designed with good airflow systems to keep birds comfortable even in high temperatures.”

Good ventilation is crucial in Uganda’s often sweltering poultry houses, where poor airflow can stress birds and reduce egg production. The company’s cage systems aim to maintain steady circulation, helping farmers avoid heat-related losses. Heidtmann advised that the cage systems are most efficient for commercial farmers keeping 20,000 birds or more.

“Unless the chicken number is over 20,000, they are not efficient to use,” he noted. A cage unit for 20,000 birds costs about 145 Euros (sh528,000), according to the company. The systems are available in Jinja, Luwero and other districts through local distributors.

“Many farmers see the need for long-lasting, quality cages, and we have them,” Heidtmann said.

Operating since 1968, Hellmann Poultry Equipment provides customised poultry housing solutions worldwide, with a strong presence in Africa, Asia and South America.

Core product offerings

Layer Cages (PRO Series): Built to reduce egg breakage, minimise feed waste and optimise space for high-density, automated egg production.

Rearing Systems: Designed to give day-old chicks a strong start, including compact aviary systems for pullet rearing.

Aviary (Voliere) Systems: Alternative housing options, such as the Pro11, focusing on improved bird welfare.

Environmental Controls: Manure belt systems that remove waste every two days, alongside automated feeding and watering systems.

Key features and benefits

Durability: Designed to last over 20 years.

Efficiency: Automation reduces labour in egg collection and feeding while cutting feed wastage.

Climate Adaptation: Engineered to perform well in hot and humid climates common in Africa and Asia.

Technical Support: Supervision during assembly, staff training and on-site support through local partners.

In Uganda, the company’s distributor is African Choice Holdings Ltd, based in Kira-Najjera Municipality, Wakiso district. Hellmann says its product development is driven by intensive research into farmers’ needs, aiming to deliver practical, cost-effective and customised solutions. Due to their unique geographical location in the European ‘Silicon Valley’ of agricultural technology, they know the needs and requirements of today’s poultry owners.

With more than five decades of experience in laying systems, aviaries, enriched cages, feeding and manure removal systems, the company prides itself on German engineering standards and in-house manufacturing.

For Uganda’s poultry farmers, where every cracked egg and wasted scoop of feed cuts into profit, the promise of sturdy cages that can endure two decades of tropical conditions could make the difference between survival and sustained growth.