Poultry farmers in Guinea's Labé region are facing a severe crisis due to the loss of key markets in Haute-Guinée and rising production costs. The situation has led to a significant accumulation of unsold eggs, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and their employees. With the industry on the brink of collapse, farmers are calling on President Mamadi Doumbouya to provide emergency support. They are seeking exemptions and subsidies to help them stay afloat.
Hadja Mariama Dalein Diallo, a veteran farmer from Labé, expressed her concerns about the current state of the industry. She noted that she has never faced a situation as dire as this before, despite experiencing difficulties throughout her career. Diallo emphasized that the loss of key markets, particularly in Siguiri, Kankan, and Mandiana, has severely impacted the industry. She also highlighted the perishable nature of eggs and the need for regular feeding and care for the hens.
Farmers in the region are considering reducing their prices to clear their stockpiles of eggs. Diallo revealed that they plan to set a common price for their eggs this week. She also lamented the low consumption of eggs in the region, despite their high nutritional value. According to Diallo, a single egg is equivalent to 200 grams of meat, making eggs an excellent source of protein for families.
Fatoumata Binta Diallo, another poultry farmer from Labé, urged President Doumbouya and the government to intervene urgently to save the industry. She warned that if the state does not provide support, hundreds of millions of francs guinéens invested in the industry will be lost. Binta Diallo suggested that reducing the cost of inputs, such as feed for poultry, would help farmers maintain their activities.
Alpha Mamoudou Diallo, a poultry farmer and industry expert, shared similar concerns about the crisis. He attributed the high production costs to the dependence on imported raw materials. According to Diallo, the suspension of artisanal gold mining activities in Haute-Guinée has disrupted the entire value chain of the poultry industry. He called for government intervention, including exemptions on the importation of inputs, to help reduce costs.
The crisis has significant implications for the region, with many farmers and employees relying on the poultry industry for their livelihoods. If the situation is not addressed, it could lead to widespread job losses and a decline in the region's economic activity. Farmers are urging the government to take immediate action to support the industry and prevent its collapse.
The poultry farmers' appeal to President Doumbouya highlights the need for government support to address the crisis. The industry's survival depends on the government's ability to provide relief measures, such as exemptions and subsidies, to help farmers overcome their current challenges. The situation remains critical, with farmers counting on a swift response from the authorities to save their businesses.
Key points
- Poultry farmers in Guinea's Labé region are seeking urgent support from President Mamadi Doumbouya to save their struggling industry.
