Introduction

In Zimbabwe’s fast-growing agribusiness sector, poultry farming remains one of the most promising ventures for small to medium-scale farmers. But one of the biggest questions many beginners ask is: “Should I raise broilers or layers?”

Both types of poultry can generate good profits — but they differ in investment costs, time to returns, management needs, and market demand.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about broilers vs. layers in Zimbabwe, helping you choose which is more profitable for your situation.

1. Understanding the Basics: Broilers and Layers

Broilers

Broilers are chickens bred specifically for meat production. They grow very fast and reach market weight within 6 to 7 weeks. Key characteristics:

  • Fast growth rate
  • High feed consumption
  • Ready for sale within two months
  • Short production cycle and quick cash flow

Layers

Layers are chickens raised primarily for egg production. They start laying eggs around 18–20 weeks of age and continue for up to 18 months. Key characteristics:

  • Longer production cycle
  • Requires consistent feed supply
  • Generates steady income through egg sales
  • Higher long-term investment returns

Both are profitable — but the best choice depends on your capital, goals, and market.

2. Startup Costs: Which One Needs More Capital?

Generally, broiler farming requires less initial capital than layers because the production cycle is short. However, layer farming requires a larger upfront investment because of housing, laying equipment, and long-term feed costs before the birds start producing eggs.

Expense

Broilers (100 birds)

Layers (100 pullets)

Day-old chicks

$100

$120

Feed (first cycle)

$250

$350

Vaccines/medication

$30

$40

Housing & equipment

$150

$250

Electricity & heating

$20

$25

Total Initial Cost

≈ $550

≈ $785

So, if you’re starting small with limited capital, broilers are more affordable.

3. Time to Profit: How Long Before You Start Earning?

This is where broilers have a clear advantage.

  • Broilers: Ready for market in 6–7 weeks. You can complete up to 6–8 cycles per year if managed well.
  • Layers: Start producing eggs after 5 months, and then lay consistently for about 12–18 months.

If you need quick cash flow, broilers are ideal. But if you want consistent monthly income, layers provide a stable long-term return once production begins.

4. Revenue and Profit Comparison

Broilers (100 birds)

  • Selling price per bird: $7–$9
  • Gross income: $700–$900
  • Total costs: $550
  • Estimated profit per cycle: $150–$350
  • Annual potential (6 cycles): $900–$2,100

Layers (100 birds)

  • Laying rate: 80–90 eggs per day at peak
  • Monthly eggs: ≈ 2,400
  • Selling price per egg: $0.10–$0.12
  • Monthly revenue: $240–$288
  • Monthly feed & running costs: $150–$180
  • Estimated monthly profit: $90–$120
  • Annual profit after production begins: $1,000–$1,300

Conclusion: Layers yield higher total annual profit, but broilers deliver faster cash turnover and require less working capital.

5. Market Demand in Zimbabwe

Broilers

  • Very popular in both rural and urban markets.
  • High demand from butcheries, restaurants, schools, and individuals.
  • Consumption spikes during holidays and events.

Layers (Eggs)

  • Eggs sell throughout the year with less seasonal fluctuation.
  • Eggs are easier to store and transport.
  • Demand from hotels, supermarkets, and households remains steady.

In Zimbabwe, broilers dominate festive markets, while eggs offer daily steady income.

6. Feed and Management Requirements

Feed is the largest cost in poultry farming — typically 60–70% of total expenses.

  • Broilers require high-protein feed for rapid growth. They consume about 4.5–5 kg of feed per bird before slaughter.
  • Layers require balanced rations for egg production — about 115–120 grams per bird per day.

Feed brands like Novatek, National Foods, and Profeeds are commonly used in Zimbabwe.

Layers need more consistent management over a long period, including egg collection, cleaning, and record-keeping, while broilers demand intensive care in a short time frame.

7. Risk Factors to Consider

Factor

Broilers

Layers

Disease risk

High (due to rapid growth and density)

Moderate

Market price fluctuation

Frequent (especially during off-seasons)

More stable

Feed quality impact

Immediate effect on growth

Affects egg production gradually

Cash flow risk

High if market collapses mid-cycle

Lower due to ongoing egg sales

Key takeaway: Broilers are more volatile but give faster returns; layers are more stable but require patience.

8. Labour and Space Requirements

  • Broilers: Require more space per bird (about 1 sq. foot each) but for a shorter period. Labour is intense during the 7-week cycle.
  • Layers: Require long-term housing with proper nesting boxes and consistent care.

Broiler projects are easier to manage with minimal labour, while layer operations need ongoing attention and skilled handling.

9. Marketing Strategies for Each

Broilers:

  • Sell live or dressed chickens directly to customers.
  • Supply local butcheries and restaurants.
  • Create bulk delivery deals with schools, events, or caterers.

Layers:

  • Sell fresh eggs in trays to supermarkets or vendors.
  • Market directly on WhatsApp and social media.
  • Add value — sell boiled, salted, or packaged eggs for premium prices.

Effective branding and consistency are key for both types of businesses.

10. Profitability Verdict

So, which is more profitable for Zimbabwean farmers? The answer depends on your goals and financial capacity.

Category

Broilers

Layers

Startup Cost

Lower

Higher

Time to Returns

6–7 weeks

5 months

Income Type

One-time per cycle

Continuous monthly

Risk Level

Higher

Moderate

Management

Short-term, intensive

Long-term, consistent

Overall Profitability

Fast profits, scalable

Sustainable, steady profits

If you want quick profits and fast turnover: Choose broilers. If you prefer stable, long-term income: Choose layers.

Many successful Zimbabwean farmers combine both, using broiler profits to support their layer operations — balancing short-term gains with long-term stability.

11. Tips for Success in Both Poultry Types

  1. Buy chicks from reputable hatcheries like Irvines, Hamara, or Lunar.
  2. Follow proper vaccination schedules from AGRITEX or veterinary officers.
  3. Keep accurate financial and production records.
  4. Use quality feed and clean water at all times.
  5. Market strategically — know your customers before production starts.
  6. Maintain strict biosecurity to prevent disease outbreaks.

12. Final Thoughts

Poultry farming in Zimbabwe remains one of the most profitable and accessible agribusiness opportunities for both rural and urban entrepreneurs.

Choosing between broilers and layers depends on your capital, patience, and market strategy. Broilers bring quick cash, while layers offer long-term stability.

For many farmers, success lies in starting small, learning the ropes, and reinvesting profits into expanding operations. With good planning, poultry can turn into a sustainable enterprise that feeds families and drives economic growth in Zimbabwe.