Egg prices recovering steadily

AGRIBUSINESS   LOCKDOWN

KAMPALA - After the lockdown was partially lifted, poultry farmers are seeing a positive trend in the industry. The drastic fall in egg prices was among the worst challenges they have been faced with in recent years.

Pastor Solomon Male, the secretary-general of the Uganda Poultry Farmers' Network (UPAFEN), said the lockdown caused a loss of income, leading to low disposable income, low purchasing power, low demand because people concentrated on essentials just to survive.

Before the lockdown, a tray of eggs cost between sh10,000 and sh13,000. When the lockdown was effected, the price fell drastically to sh6,500 in some areas and sh7,500 in others.

Since the partial lifting of the lockdown, prices have started improving. A try now goes for between sh9000 to sh10,000.

Why the rise in prices now?

According to Male, many farmers sold off the would-be laying stocks to avoid further losses hence, fall in egg supplies.

He said that lifting the ban on private and public transport has given farmers hope of better prospects adding that farmers are now storing the eggs as they gear up for increased demand.

Male noted that the resumption of some work activities has led to income boosts hence facilitating the purchasing power.

Current poultry farming challenges

Male revealed that adulterated, substandard and expired inputs like feeds, feed raw materials, vaccines & drugs have hit the market and some farmers have fallen victim.

He was concerned that the industry lacks extension services to enable farmers acquire a variety of products for enhanced productivity.

He noted that unprofessional veterinary workers have taken advantage of farmers during the lockdown urging them to be vigilant when looking for veterinary workers.