How To Start A Pig Farm In Ghana Now

How To Start A Pig Farm In Ghana Now.

INTRODUCTION

Pigs are often called swine, hog, or pig when there is no need to distinguish it from other pigs. It is a large and even-toed ungulate.

It is variously considered a subspecies of the wild boar or a distinct species. The domestic pig’s head-plus-body-length ranges from 0.9 to 1.8 m (35 to 71 in), and the adult can weigh between 50 to 350 kg (110 to 770 lb).

Its head is relatively long, pointed, and free of warts. Even-toed ungulates are generally herbivorous, but the domestic pig is an omnivore.

Domestic pigs are farmed primarily for the consumption of their meat called pork. The animal’s bones, hide, and bristles are also used in commercial products.

There is demand of pig products in the market. Pig products such as pork, bacon, sausages etc. are very popular in Ghana. Commercial pig farming in Ghana is very popular and profitable business and it is one of the worthwhile activities to engage in.

The demand is very high and the market is growing rapidly. But the supply is still limited. So, there is a great opportunity for commercial pig farming in Ghana.

STARTING A PIG FARM IN GHANA

Below are some of the key factors to consider before you decide to go into the business.

Land Size and Type:

Selecting a suitable land is very important for starting pig farming in Ghana. A suitable land with availability of all types of necessary facilities ensure proper growth, good health, proper marketing and maximum profit from pig farming business.

The size of land will depend on the number of pigs that you wish to farm. Generally you should:

1. Select a calm and quiet place far from the residential areas to avoid pollution to neighbors.
2. Ensure sufficient supply of fresh water in the farm area. A water source like lake, pond, river etc. will be effective. You can also dig a well or deep borehole to provide water for the farm.
3. Consider availability of veterinary service near your farm land. The farmer usually pays for the transportation cost of the Vet officer.
4. The site should be at an elevated place that cannot be flooded by rain water.
5. Access to good transportation system is important to facilitate the sale of the matured ones.
6. Low cost feeding elements help to reduce food cost. A fertile land can used to plant feed for the animals.
7. Select land in peri-urban areas. This because land and labour are relatively cheaper than urban areas. Nonetheless, don’t set up too far from the urban centres. This to help reduce the transportation cost for buyers who buy to sell in the urban areas.

Breeds of Pigs Suitable for Ghana Market

Select proper pig breeds according to your production scale. You can select both local and hybrid pigs for commercial pig farming in Ghana. Generally Large White, Landrace, Ashanti Black, Duroc, Hampshire are very profitable pig breeds in the Ghana market.