Theft of poultry is an old and widespread crime that continues to haunt farmers across Uganda. From rural villages to peri-urban communities, countless farmers have lost their hard-earned investments to night-time raiders and unscrupulous workers.
As chicken farming grows more lucrative, so do the threats that come with it.
Gladys Nakamya, a resident of Lwadda A in Matugga, Wakiso district, knows this struggle too well. Living in rented premises, she runs a modest poultry project of 200 broilers and 50 local hens.
“I would be having more than this, but it’s difficult because of challenges like theft and high chick mortality, sometimes, birds disappear mysteriously, especially at night, and you can’t trust everyone,” she explains.
Paul Rubaire, a commercial poultry farmer who manages a thriving enterprise in Fort Portal, says theft can cripple small projects if not addressed early.
“We used to lose birds too, but over time, we put strict measures in place,, he says.
Rubaire’s farm now has trained night guards and strategically placed security lights.
“We also installed wire fencing around the poultry units and limited access to certain areas, only trusted workers are allowed inside,” he adds.
He advises farmers to document stock movement daily and carry out regular counts, especially in the evening.
“Biosecurity starts with access control, not just for disease but also theft prevention,” Rubaire notes.
Rubaire encourages farmers like Nakamya to form community watch groups and work closely with local leaders.
“You may not afford full security alone, but when you work with neighbours, it becomes easier.”
