Laying hen production and feeding practices in Togo: A survey

A survey was carried out, involving layer chicken farmers to identify and inventory the different feed components and to determine their rates of incorporation in poultry feed rations, as well as to inventory different layer lines or commercial crosses raised in Togo and finally to determine their production performances. During the survey, samples of feed ingredients and complete layer diets were collected for crude protein (CP) and gross energy (GE) levels determination. The survey indicated that 15 different feed components were used in the formulation of layer feed rations. Among these components, corn was the most important component (52.60±2.58%) followed by wheat bran (16.11±2.72%), roasted soya (11.40±1.91%), fish meal (8.29±1.64%) and cotton seed (7.57±1.58%). Rates of incorporation of these components in the feed ration varied according to the producer and the age of chickens, as there are no established standard requirements for layer feed in Togo currently. The survey revealed that average layer numbers per farm increased from 329 to 520 chickens between 2001 and 2005. Several layers strains or commercial crosses are present in Togo, however, only Isa Brown (IB), Harco and Hisex White (HW) were considered important. Productive performances were comparable between these three strains. It was concluded that promotion of the local egg industry in Togo should focus on the establishment of hatchery, proficient feed mill units, providing information about management practices and training those involved in the sector on appropriate technologies.