As September unfolds, poultry farmers across sub-Saharan Africa are facing a volatile mix of weather conditions that are testing the resilience of their flocks and infrastructure. From Lusaka to Nairobi, the combination of patchy rainfall, cooler-than-average mornings, and rising midday humidity is creating a delicate balancing act for poultry producers.

 Current Weather Snapshot: September 14–15, 2025

According to regional forecasts, temperatures across much of southern and eastern Africa have hovered between 17°C and 22°C, with patchy rain reported in Lusaka, Harare, and parts of northern South Africa. Humidity levels have climbed to 68%, and wind speeds are averaging 21 km/h, contributing to fluctuating thermal comfort for poultry flocks.

In Zambia, recent mornings have dipped to 12°C, while daytime highs reach 17°C–19°C, accompanied by intermittent showers. These conditions, while not extreme, are enough to trigger mild heat stress in poorly ventilated poultry houses and increase the risk of respiratory infections in younger birds.

Poultry Farming Under Pressure: Climate Impacts in Focus

Poultry farming—especially broiler and layer operations—is highly sensitive to weather variability. The current conditions are amplifying several key challenges:

1. Heat Stress and Ventilation Gaps

Even modest temperature spikes during midday can lead to heat stress, particularly in deep-litter systems with poor airflow. Birds exposed to prolonged warmth show:

• Reduced feed intake
• Slower weight gain
• Lower egg production
• Increased mortality in extreme cases

Farmers are responding by installing low-cost ventilation systems, using evaporative cooling pads, and adjusting stocking densities to reduce crowding.

2. Disease Risk from Humidity and Rain

The combination of high humidity and patchy rain creates ideal conditions for the spread of Newcastle disease, avian influenza, and coccidiosis. Damp litter and poor drainage can exacerbate bacterial growth, leading to outbreaks that threaten entire flocks.

Veterinary experts recommend:

• Regular litter replacement
• Use of disinfectants and probiotics
• Strict biosecurity protocols, including footbaths and visitor restrictions

3. Feed and Water Scarcity

In East Africa, drought conditions earlier this year have led to feed shortages, driving up the cost of maize and soy-based rations. Rainwater harvesting systems are being deployed to supplement water supplies, while some farmers are experimenting with locally sourced feed alternatives like cassava peel mash and insect protein.

Adaptation Strategies Gaining Ground

Despite the challenges, poultry farmers are innovating. In Zambia and Kenya, producers are:

• Investing in climate-resilient chicken breeds with better heat tolerance
• Upgrading housing with insulated roofing and shaded ventilation
• Participating in government-backed training programs on climate-smart poultry management

NGOs are also stepping in, offering subsidized feed, mobile vet services, and digital tools for disease tracking and weather alerts.

Final Word

September’s weather may be unpredictable, but Africa’s poultry farmers are proving resilient. By adapting housing, feed strategies, and disease prevention protocols, they’re not just surviving the season—they’re laying the groundwork for a more climate-smart future.