Newton Poultry To Produce 22,000 Eggs Daily
Under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, the Minister of Agriculture, Sierra Leone is on the cusp of a significant transformation in its agricultural sector. The government’s initiative, “Di Feed Salone,” prioritizes local food production and aims to enhance the country’s self-sufficiency, particularly in essential commodities such as eggs. In this context, Newton Poultry is poised to make a substantial impact, with plans to produce 22,000 eggs per day in just three weeks.
Founded in 2024, Newton Poultry is a cutting-edge, fully automated poultry company that has already made remarkable strides. With an initial capacity to house 22,649 chickens, the company stands at the forefront of efforts to reduce the country’s dependency on imported eggs. The visionary founder and Director, Manav Shahani, is leading this initiative as part of the broader Feed Salone Initiative aimed at bolstering local food production. “Eggs are a staple food directly consumed by many, and the market is craving for them,” says Shahani, underscoring the importance of fulfilling local demand and gradually reducing imports.
The need for local egg production has never been more urgent. Currently, Sierra Leone faces challenges related to the high costs and long delays associated with importing eggs, which can take up to eight weeks to reach the market. This prolonged importation process not only affects pricing, but also compromises quality. With an ambitious output target of 22,000 eggs daily, Newton Poultry is determined to eliminate these disparities. “That’s just our starting point,” Shahani adds, hinting at future expansions that could see the company not only meeting local demand, but potentially exporting fresh, affordable eggs to neighboring markets.
At the core of Newton Poultry’s operations is a commitment to maintaining a healthy and productive flock. The company emphasizes rigorous vaccination protocols and expert management practices to ensure the well-being of its chickens. “We maintain a strict regimen of vaccination and ensure high-quality feed and water supply,” Shahani explains. These meticulous practices are crucial for achieving faster production rates and ensuring that the eggs produced meet high quality standards.
In addition to focusing on production, Newton Poultry is dedicated to creating job opportunities within the local community. By hiring graduates from Njala University and other community members, the company demonstrates its commitment to fostering economic development and empowering local talent. With an investment exceeding $2 million, Newton Poultry epitomizes the growth potential of the private sector in Sierra Leone.
Moreover, the company is actively partnering with local farmers to source feed ingredients, particularly encouraging the cultivation of maize, which is essential for producing nutritious poultry feed. This collaboration not only supports Newton Poultry’s production goals, but also strengthens the agricultural sector by providing additional income streams for local farmers. By fostering this relationship, Newton Poultry ensures a steady supply of quality feed, while simultaneously contributing to the economic wellbeing of the farming community.
The government’s support for local investment is evident through various initiatives, including the recent implementation of a 35% import duty on imported eggs. Dr. Kpaka has pledged his vigilance in promoting and supporting local investors like Newton Poultry. “This is a laudable business model that will significantly reduce imports while boosting our economy,” he remarked, commending the company’s efforts to enhance the local supply chain.
The implications of such investments extend far beyond mere economics. Local production not only ensures fresher eggs for consumers, but also contributes to stabilizing prices. “Our eggs will be fresh and always available,” assures Shahani, emphasizing their commitment to provide quality products that surpass the offerings of imported goods.
As Newton Poultry gears up for production, plans are underway to establish facilities in Murray Town for refrigeration and storage. This strategic move will enable the company to respond agilely to unexpected market demands while maintaining the high quality of its products. By investing in infrastructure that enhances efficiency, Newton Poultry is positioning itself as a leader in the local poultry industry.
With strong leadership, a clear vision, and robust support mechanisms in place, Newton Poultry is ready to transform the poultry landscape in Sierra Leone. By prioritizing local sourcing and production, the company aims not only to eliminate reliance on imports, but also to fortify the broader agricultural economy.
As the countdown to production begins, it is evident that Newton Poultry represents more than just a business venture; it embodies a commitment to feeding the local population, empowering farmers, and creating sustainable jobs. The company is paving the way for a brighter future for Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape, one fresh egg at a time.
In conclusion, the emergence of Newton Poultry is a testament to the potential of private sector growth in Sierra Leone’s agriculture. With the backing of the government and the engagement of local communities, this initiative is set to not only meet the immediate demand for eggs, but also to contribute significantly to the nation’s long-term food security and economic stability.
