Goliath chicken farming, a highly profitable yet underutilized venture, is gaining momentum among young entrepreneurs in Benin. Historically overshadowed by the high initial investment and production costs, the sector is now poised for transformation. Starting January 2025, new government policies banning the importation of frozen poultry products will pave the way for the growth of the local poultry industry, creating significant opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and stakeholders.

To harness this potential, a groundbreaking training program titled “Organic Poultry Farming from A to Z: Goliath Chicken Farming, a Future Opportunity for Beninese Youth” was conducted from September 31 to November 4, 2024. This initiative sought to empower 150 young participants with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the rapidly expanding poultry market.

The program offered a comprehensive curriculum, blending theoretical insights with practical techniques. Participants learned cost-effective farming methods, including strategies for disease prevention and the production of poultry feed using affordable crop residues. This hands-on approach equipped them with tools to overcome the challenges of entering the poultry farming industry, particularly in the organic sector.

By the conclusion of the training, these young entrepreneurs were ready to launch their ventures in Goliath chicken farming. Their efforts are expected to not only improve their personal livelihoods but also contribute to Benin’s food security and economic development.

With the upcoming policy shift and a new wave of skilled agripreneurs stepping forward, Goliath chicken farming is set to revolutionize the poultry sector in Benin, turning a once-overlooked opportunity into a cornerstone of agricultural innovation and growth.