Poultry feed challenges and their impact on production in Ethiopia: A mini review

Abstract

Poultry production is a key part of Ethiopia’s agricultural economy, playing a vital role in food security, nutrition, and supporting rural livelihoods. However, the sector faces major hurdles due to persistent challenges in feed supply and usage. These include the scarcity and high cost of conventional feed ingredients, poor feed quality and safety issues like widespread mycotoxin contamination, and the limited use of alternative feed resources. The feed value chain is fragmented, hampering efficiency and growth. Addressing feed insecurity requires more than technical fixes; it demands integrated solutions combining improved feed formulation and storage with strong national policies, quality control measures, and targeted investments in research and value-chain development to sustainably transform the poultry sector.