Viral Disease Control Strategies Effect on Technical Efficiency of Layer Farmers in the Bono Region of Ghana

Abstract

Viral diseases among layer chickens threaten income of small to medium holder commercial farmers in Ghana. Strict adherence to biosecurity measures aids in controlling the spread of these diseases and hence improves production efficiency thus increasing income. Limited knowledge, high cost of chemicals, irregular veterinary visits and negligence on the part of farmers constrain farmers from implementing good biosecurity practices. The study sought to assesses technical efficiency and biosecurity practices influencing technical efficiency levels of layer production in Bono Region of Ghana. A normalized Cobb-Douglas production function is employed using cross sectional data of 161-layer producers in 2 districts (Dormaa Central and Dormaa East) in Bono Region. Inputs such as feed consumption, water consumption, vaccination and other medications and hired labour (man-days) were used and the output being crates of eggs produced per thousand birds. The study found that the quantity of feed and water consumption are the most significant factors negatively and positively affecting the egg levels of layer production. All the input variables respond positively to the output except feed consumption. Layer producers are about 92% efficient in terms of production. Majority of the farmers representing 53.3% were from the ages of 41 to 50 years with a mean age of 44 years. Layer farmers are largely dominated by males representing 81% of the sample size interviewed. However, Membership of farmer-based organizations, deworming, disinfection and rearing of other birds are the key factors that significantly explain the variations in production efficiency. Other biosecurity factors that were mentioned and mostly practiced were the use of footbath, litter disposal, deworming, frequent in house cleaning and veterinary visits on farms. The findings suggest that irregular visits by veterinary officers to farms for increased education are important. This education should focus on the significance of practicing biosecurity measures on farms. Additionally, farmers need to be educated on the early detection of viral poultry diseases and its control mechanisms. Ensuring strict adherence to combinations of biosecurity practices by layer farmers is key. These actions can lead to an increase in efficiency levels, ultimately resulting in higher output. It is recommended that, there should be implementation of comprehensive vaccination schedules and timely vaccination of birds among these farmers.