“When I started rearing geese, I didn’t know how important the breed choice was,” recalls Nsereko Lwamasaka from Kiwebwa village.
Geese are hardy, inexpensive to feed, and valuable for both meat and eggs, but real success begins with selecting the right breed for your goals and learning how to rear them effectively.
Lwamasaka says the most common goose breeds in Uganda include the Embden, Chinese, and Toulouse.
“The Embden is excellent for meat because it grows fast and produces a large carcass. Chinese geese are good layers, while Toulouse geese adapt well to different climates,” he explains.
Isma Matovu, a breeder in Matugga, advises farmers to match their choice of breed to their purpose, meat, eggs, or ornamental use, while also considering feed availability and market demand.
“Healthy breeding stock should have bright eyes, smooth feathers, and strong legs,” he notes.
Kenneth Kabagambe from Kyenjojo points out that geese are relatively easy to rear since they graze on grass, which cuts feed costs significantly. Even so, they require access to clean drinking water and a safe shelter to protect them from predators.
“A small pond or nearby water source helps them thrive, as geese love swimming, and it keeps them healthy,” Kabagambe says.
Good management also means keeping their living areas clean to prevent diseases, carrying out regular deworming, and ensuring a balanced diet, especially during breeding and laying seasons. Geese can live for more than 6 years, making them a long-term investment for farmers.
With the right breed selection, proper housing, and attentive care, goose farming can become a profitable and sustainable enterprise for both smallholders and large-scale producers, offering nutritious meat, valuable eggs, and a steady income for years to come.
