A Quantitative Analysis of the Potential Fertilizer Value of Poultry Manure Generated in the Accra-Tema Metropolitan Area

Abstract

The rapid population growth and urbanization has brought about the challenge of organising food on a sustainable basis with the use of inputs such as fertilizers. The present study was conducted to investigate the potential fertilizer value of poultry manure produced in the Accra-Tema metropolitan area. Structured questionnaires were used to interview 30 commercial farms. Also, three farms were chosen for case studies. The results indicate that poultry manure contains high levels of Nitrogen (3.3%), Potassium (1.5%), and Phosphorus (3.03%), a ton of which was valued at <i353, 850 . 00 . A broiler bird produces 113. 4g litter per day whilst a layer bird produces 47.8g manure per day. The study also revealed that manure produced is largely unused by farmers. It was recommended that farmers keep proper records on litter production for its proper management. The setting up of micro compost plants on large poultry farms particularly those using the battery cage system with links to other poultry farms was recommended for further study.