CONSTRAINTS THAT AFFECT THE PRODUCTIVITY OF INDIGENOUS CHICKEN IN KIKUMINI/MUVAU AND KITHUNGO/KITUNDU WARDS OF MAKUENI COUNTY, KENYA.

The study sought to assess the Constraints that affect the productivity of indigenous chicken in Kikumini/Muvau and Kithungo/Kitundu wards of Makueni County Kenya. The study location is 87% Arid and Semi-arid and very marginal to successful crop production. Poultry production is the most widespread subsistence agricultural activity where about 75-80% of all farm families practice this enterprise. Extensive (scavenging) system of production which subjects chicken to risk of disease outbreaks and high infestation by parasites dominates indigenous chicken production in the county. A total of 158 households (72 in Kikumini/Muvau ward and 86 in Kithungo/Kitundu ward) were randomly sampled for collection of primary data using semi structured questionnaires. Results revealed that indigenous chicken productivity is negatively affected mainly by diseases and parasites, and high cost of feeds, low adoption of biosecurity measures and inadequate extension services. The study recommends that; the county government and private service providers ought to improve on service delivery to the chicken producers in terms of quality and coverage, disseminating seasonal messages when due and targeting the major decision makers in the chicken enterprise at household level.It further recommends financial empowerment to farmers in order to deal with many challenges facing indigenous chicken production in Makueni County