Khadidja Hassaballah Hamid*, Ahamat Abdoulaye Mahamat
In a context of rapid urbanization and socioeconomic transformation in the peri-urban areas of N'Djamena (Chad), duck farming is emerging as a promising alternative activity, particularly for vulnerable populations. This study aims to characterize breeding practices, reproductive performance, as well as the constraints and opportunities related to duck production in this area. The survey was conducted from January to February 2022 in 19 villages across the provinces of Chari Baguirmi, Hadjer Lamis and N'Djamena. A total of 212 farmers were interviewed using structured questionnaires covering farmer profiles, farming systems, feeding, hygiene, animal health and reproduction. The data were analyzed using XL-STAT software, with descriptive statistics and significance tests at the 5% level. The results show that breeding is predominantly extensive (97%), practiced by men (70%), mainly farmers (61%), with an average experience of 11 years. The average herd is 16 head, composed mainly of the Barbary breed. Feeding is based on local products (bran, kitchen scraps) and the infrastructure is rudimentary, often made of beaten earth. Ducks lay an average of 13.5 eggs per cycle, with a hatching rate of 84.6% and a weaning survival rate of 81.5%. The main constraints identified are diseases, lack of feed and the absence of veterinary monitoring, with prophylaxis being practiced by only 14% of breeders. Duck farming in the outskirts of N'Djamena is a promising traditional activity, but it is still poorly regulated. Its development requires better structuring of the sector, strengthening the technical capacities of breeders and improving access to inputs and veterinary services.
Published Date: 2025-08-28; Received Date: 2025-07-12
