Factors affecting production and market performance of Guinea fowls and Quails in Kenya

Abstract

Emerging livestock like guinea fowls and quails are important alternative sources of poultry meat and eggs to chicken. These poultry species are also a significant source of income, especially to poor rural farmers. The study surveyed selected regions of Kenya to determine the factors influencing market performance of guinea fowl and quail products. A total of 652 guinea fowl and quail farmers participated in the study throughinterviews and filling questionnaires. Data was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative procedures where descriptive statistics were conducted by calculating frequencies and percentages. The results identified the main stakeholders in the guinea fowl and quail value chain that play a significant role in influencing their market performance. This study reveals that product, market, capital, technology and disease interrelation factors positively influencethe market performance of guinea fowl and quail products. Therefore, we recommend that the involved relevant stakeholders should establish mechanisms that will streamline and improve guinea fowl and quail farming thereby making it sustainable and profitable for Kenyan farmers.