Poultry farming continues to grow as one of the most reliable agribusiness ventures in Kenya, and Machakos County is quickly becoming a key hub for innovation in this sector. At the recent Machakos ASK Show 2026, farmers were introduced to improved poultry breeds that are transforming production timelines and profitability, especially the Sasso F1 chicken.
Exhibitors from Uzima Poultry Farming highlighted how Sasso F1 chickens are outperforming traditional breeds. According to farm specialists, these birds begin laying eggs at around 4.5 months and reach full maturity at approximately 5 months. This rapid growth cycle allows farmers to earn returns much faster compared to conventional indigenous chickens.
One of the strongest advantages of Sasso F1 is its adaptability. The breed thrives in both free-range and semi-intensive systems, making it suitable for smallholder farmers across different regions. Its resilience to varying weather conditions also reduces losses and improves survival rates, which is crucial for farmers in semi-arid areas like Machakos.
In addition to Sasso F1, farmers also showed interest in improved kienyeji chickens, which remain popular due to their strong meat flavor and market demand. However, they typically take longer—about 5 months or more—to reach market readiness.
Experts at the exhibition emphasized that success in poultry farming does not rely on breed alone but also on proper feeding, vaccination, housing, and consistent farm management. Farmers who combine improved breeds with good practices can significantly increase egg production and meat yield. With growing demand for poultry products in urban and rural markets, Machakos farmers are being encouraged to adopt improved breeds like Sasso F1 to maximize profits and ensure food security.
