STARTING A GOAT FARMING BUSINESS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!!
“Goat farming Business part is a very lucrative and profitable business with a proven ready market.
As you about to read, I believe you will agree with me that “Goat meat is enjoyable by many”. I will try my best to be brief, concise and not to have a lengthy post.
IN ORDER TO START A GOAT FARMING BUSINESS, HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED:
1. LAND: You require land for goat farming business. The identified area will aid you to erect the necessary goat pens. It is advisable to locate the goat farming project near a good location to minimize cost.
2. HOUSING AND EQUIPMENT: you need a good housing in order to be successful in goat farming business.
TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING: a. For those aiming or seeking to start with an “Expensive housing”, it is not advisable if you do not have enough capital. Just construct it simple and with time you will upgrade. b. Your goat pen should have a dry floor, good ventilation and clean. The purpose of ventilation is to provide the desired amount of fresh air to all parts of the shelter.c. Protect you goat from direct sunshine and raind. You can use woods, clay bricks or concrete blocks to construct the goat pen. e. You require feeders and drinkers for feed and water for goats.
PRECAUTIONS:a. Poor ventilation can be detrimental to goat health and performanceb. Harmful gases and dust can cause respiratory problems. c. When goats are exposed to extreme temperature, it can reduce goat productivity.
NB: Regardless of the construction material, you should provide enough space for animals, favorable conditions such as temperature and humidity and proper ventilation.
3. GOAT BREEDING STOCK You need goat stock to start your project. This are bucks (Male goats) and does (female goats). Take note of the following when choosing breeding stock: a. Be cautious of the goat historyb. To be on a safer side, purchase breeding stock from goat farmers who have a good reputation in your locality.c. Select goats that are strong and have an overall appearance of good health. d. The Buck should be masculine; he should have a broad muzzle with large open nostrils. His eyes should be bright. e. Request to see the records of the parents of the breeding stock you are purchasing.
4. GOAT BREEDHere; most people get confused on which type of breed to start with. This is because there are different breeds of goats and for commercial farming across Africa. The “Boer”- (See picture depicting this type of breed in the comment post below) and other indigenous breed are most selected across Africa.
In my subsequent post, I will have the time to show you the various types of breeds and which one of them is suitable for commercial purposes. For now, I will suggest you go with the Boer. Also, find out from you target market the type of Breeds the consumers want. This will help you take an informed decision on the type of breed to start with.
5. FEED FOR GOATSSome people hold the view that the highest cost for goat farming is the feed. But, I believe the cost can also reduce ‘IF’ you prioritize a particular type of feed for your goats. Pastures and browse are usually the primary and most economic sources of nutrients for goats.
NB: Goats are energetic, inquisitive and versatile in their feeding habits. Hence, they are adaptable to various environments and can consume over 90 different plants. An area with low bushes is ideal for goat farming. Browse materials (leaves, trees, bushes, twigs, etc) appears to be enjoyed by goats.
In my next Reality Educate post on goat farming business, I will finally write on “CAPITAL FOR GOAT FARMING BUSINESS AND MARKET). I BELIEVE THIS IS THE INTERESTING PART MOST PEOPLE WILL LOVE TO HEAR AND HOW TO RAISE CAPITAL TO START.
Kindly share to motivate someone to venture into this profitable goat farming business.