Guinea Fowl Production in Africa: Economic Importance and Constraints

This review explores the role of guinea fowl production in addressing poverty, food security, economic growth, and infrastructure development in rural African communities as well as the constraints to guinea fowl production in the African continent. The unique characteristics of guinea fowls, such as their adaptability and efficient foraging abilities, make them a cost-effective and sustainable option for poultry production. The nutritional value of guinea fowl meat and eggs can significantly contribute to combating protein deficiency and malnutrition in underprivileged communities. The integration of guinea fowl farming into agro-pastoral practices can create employment opportunities and improve the financial standing of low-income households. However, major constraints to guinea fowl production is a barrier for commercialization and sustainable development of this sector. In this review, it was revealed that the majority of farmers in Africa keep guinea fowls as backyard poultry or for small-scale production with limited production inputs. Poor nutrition, choice of production method, and poor housing structures are the major constraints to guinea fowl production. The extensive scavenging method is the most common production method for guinea fowls, with cereals and kitchen waste used as supplements when necessary. Guinea fowls are mostly housed in traditional poultry shelters, while some birds roost on trees and other structures. Egg losses, predation, diseases, and parasite infestation are common issues with indigenous guinea fowls. Indigenous guinea fowls are characterized by lower egg production, poor fertility and hatchability, longer duration of sexual maturity, poor growth and development, and longer production periods. This review therefore aims to investigate the importance and constraints to guinea fowl production in Africa.