Knowledge Capabilities for Sustainable Poultry Production in Sub-Sahara Africa: Lessons from Southeast Nigeria

The poultry industry in sub-Saharan Africa faces significant sustainability challenges associated with social equity, economic stability, and environmental degradation. As the sector expands due to population and income growth, a major concern remaining is how to ensure a sustainable future for the industry. This paper assessed the knowledge capabilities of poultry farmers for sustainable production using southeast Nigeria as a model region for all riparian regions in sub-Saharan Africa. Sixty poultry farms and 180 participants were sampled. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources, including relevant literature, participant observations, and in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed with the percentage, bar chart, regression, and Pearson Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that only 13.9% of the respondents had a high knowledge of environmental sustainability. The number of years spent in school (t = 1.992; p = 0.048), access to veterinary service (t = 2.161; p = 0.032), and membership in a social organization (t = 2.306; p = 0.022) were socio-economic factors that significantly influenced knowledge capabilities. Knowledge (r = 0.252; p < 0.005), rather than income, significantly influenced the use of sustainability practices. Low knowledge of sustainability practices could mean a gross violation on the part of farmers. Specialized programs for educating poultry farmers on the realities of the environmental impacts of their livelihood are paramount.