Broiler Production Project at Chikurubi Prison
Broiler Production Project at Chikurubi Prison
This propossal serves as the for the 20,000 broiler production project initiated by the Zimbabwe
Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) at Chikurubi Farm Prison. The project aims to enhance
food security within the correctional facilities, contribute to ZPCS's self-sufficiency goals, and
support the economic empowerment of inmates through skill development in poultry farming.
Chikurubi Farm Prison, with its strategic location and existing agricultural infrastructure, is
positioned to host this large-scale broiler production initiative. The project will involve the
establishment and management of facilities, including broiler rearing houses, feeding systems,
and health management protocols, to ensure sustainable production. This document outlines the
objectives, scope, roles, responsibilities, and expected outcomes of the project, serving as a
comprehensive guide for all stakeholders involved in its execution. The broiler production will
not only meet internal consumption demands but also create potential revenue streams through
the sale of surplus produce, contributing to the economic development of the ZPCS.
Background
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has a mandate to provide for the
rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates, while also ensuring the smooth running of its
correctional facilities. Food security within these institutions is a critical component of their
operation, and efforts are continuously made to enhance self-sufficiency through agricultural
production. The Chikurubi Farm Prison, one of the largest correctional facilities under ZPCS, has
historically been engaged in various agricultural activities, including crop production and
livestock farming.
In line with these efforts, the need to diversify and intensify food production at Chikurubi led to
the identification of a broiler production project as a viable opportunity. This initiative was
conceived following a series of assessments conducted by the ZPCS agricultural and prison
administration teams, which identified a growing demand for poultry products both within the
prison system and in external markets. The prison already has suitable land and infrastructure,
including existing farming knowledge among inmates, which provides a solid foundation for the
establishment of a large-scale poultry enterprise.
The identification process for the project was guided by the following considerations:
1. Sustainability: Poultry farming, particularly broiler production, has a short production
cycle and high yield potential, making it an attractive option for meeting the food needs
of the institution in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.
2. Economic Empowerment: The project presents a unique opportunity for inmate training
and skill development in poultry farming, providing them with knowledge and expertise
that can be applied post-incarceration, thus enhancing their chances of reintegration into
society.
3. Market Potential: With surplus broiler production, there is the potential to generate
income through external sales, contributing to the economic viability of the project and
supporting broader ZPCS operations.
4. Infrastructure: The availability of land, water resources, and existing agricultural
infrastructure at Chikurubi Prison Farm made it a prime candidate for hosting a large-
scale broiler production project.
This background highlights the careful consideration and strategic planning that underpinned the
decision to establish broiler production at Chikurubi Prison Farm, ensuring that the project aligns
with the ZPCS’s broader goals of institutional sustainability, rehabilitation, and economic
development.
Project Rationale
Justification of the Project
The establishment of a 20,000 broiler production facility at Chikurubi Farm Prison is a strategic
initiative by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) to address multiple critical
needs within the institution and the broader community. The primary justification for this project
stems from the necessity to enhance food security within the prison system. Poultry meat is a
vital source of protein, and producing it internally will significantly reduce food procurement
costs and dependency on external suppliers.
Moreover, the project aligns with ZPCS's rehabilitation objectives by providing inmates with
practical skills in poultry farming. This hands-on experience is invaluable for their reintegration
into society, offering them viable livelihood opportunities upon release. The initiative also
presents economic benefits through potential revenue generation from the sale of surplus poultry
products to external markets, thereby contributing to the financial sustainability of ZPCS
operations.
The choice of Chikurubi Farm Prison as the project site is justified by its ample land availability,
existing agricultural infrastructure, and proximity to markets in Harare Metropolitan Province.
The facility's resources and location make it an ideal setting for a large-scale broiler production
operation.
Project Goals
1. Enhance Food Security: To provide a consistent and sustainable supply of poultry meat
for inmates, improving their nutritional intake.
2. Economic Sustainability: To reduce operational costs through self-sufficiency in poultry
production and generate revenue from surplus sales.
3. Inmate Rehabilitation: To equip inmates with practical skills in poultry farming,
enhancing their prospects for successful reintegration into society.
4. Capacity Building: To develop institutional capacity in large-scale poultry production,
setting a precedent for similar initiatives in other correctional facilities.
5. Community Engagement: To strengthen ties with the local community by contributing
to the local economy and possibly collaborating with nearby businesses and
organizations.
Logical Framework
This logical framework provides a structured roadmap for the broiler production project,
detailing the main components, objectives, activities, outputs, outcomes, and key performance
indicators. It ensures that the project is well-coordinated, goal-oriented, and capable of delivering
measurable results.
The Project Rationale reinforces the significance of this initiative, emphasizing its role in addressing
food security, improving inmate rehabilitation, and contributing to the financial sustainability of ZPCS. It
sets the foundation for how the broiler production will positively impact both the institution and the
wider community.
Project Design
The broiler production project at Chikurubi Farm Prison is designed to be executed in phases,
with each phase focusing on key activities that will lead to the successful establishment and
management of a 20,000 broiler capacity farm. These activities will ensure that the project is
effectively planned, implemented, monitored, and sustained for long-term benefits.
Objective: Ensure the acquisition of necessary resources and infrastructure to support broiler
production.
Activities:
Outputs:
Objective: Successfully rear broilers to optimal market weight within set timelines.
Activities:
Implement proper brooding procedures, ensuring correct temperature and humidity levels
for chicks.
Administer vaccines and health checks to maintain the health of the broilers.
Monitor feed conversion ratios (FCR) to ensure efficient growth.
Implement biosecurity measures to prevent disease outbreaks.
Provide regular health assessments and treatments in collaboration with veterinary
personnel.
Monitor the growth rate and condition of the broilers, making necessary adjustments to
feeding and care practices.
Cull unhealthy birds to prevent the spread of disease and ensure flock health.
Outputs:
Objective: Provide inmates with hands-on training and skills in poultry farming.
Activities:
Develop and deliver tailored training modules covering all aspects of broiler production
(e.g., chick brooding, feed management, disease prevention, marketing).
Organize practical workshops for inmates to participate in day-to-day farm operations.
Provide inmates with responsibilities, such as feeding, cleaning, monitoring broiler
health, and managing biosecurity measures.
Assess inmate skills and knowledge periodically through practical evaluations and
testing.
Record and track inmate progress in acquiring skills related to poultry farming.
Outputs:
Activities:
Conduct market research to identify potential buyers for surplus poultry, such as local
markets, restaurants, and retailers.
Develop partnerships and agreements with local buyers, ensuring consistent demand for
surplus broilers.
Implement a pricing strategy that aligns with local market conditions and maximizes
revenue.
Develop promotional materials and a sales strategy to increase market awareness of
ZPCS broiler production.
Organize logistics for the transportation and sale of broilers to external markets.
Outputs:
Objective: Ensure the project is meeting its objectives through regular assessment and refinement
of processes.
Activities:
Establish a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system to track project progress, including
production metrics, financial performance, and inmate training outcomes.
Conduct regular reviews and report on project performance, identifying areas for
improvement.
Collect feedback from inmates, staff, and external stakeholders to adjust project
strategies.
Implement corrective actions as necessary to improve production efficiency, inmate
training, and marketing outcomes.
Ensure that environmental and biosecurity standards are maintained to protect the
integrity of the broiler production process.
Outputs:
Objective: Maintain high biosecurity and environmental standards to ensure sustainable and safe
broiler production.
Activities:
Outputs:
Slaughtering,
dressing and
marketing
Age of chicks Day old 1 week 2 weeks 3 weeks 4 week s 5 weeks 6 weeks 7 weeks 8 weeks
Activities Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10
Week 11 Preparation: collection of materials, booking chicks and disinfections of the brooder
house Collection and brooding of chicks, commence starter feeds disinfections of poultry house
Transfer 2 week old chicks to the poultry house Change over of feed Organize slaughtering
facilities Slaughtering, dressing and marketing Booking of chicks Preparation: collection of
materials and disinfections of the brooder house Collection and brooding of chicks, commence
starter feeds and disinfections of the poultry house Transfer 2 week old to the poultry house
Change of feed Organize slaughtering facilities Slaughtering, dressing and marketing 5.1
Production process The broiler producers will procure their one day old chicks and feeds from
Irvines or
9. SWOT Analysis
SWOT Analysis: Broiler Production at Chikurubi Farm Prison
Strengths
1. Institutional Support:
o Backing from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS), ensuring
dedicated manpower (inmates and officers) and consistent attention to the
project's success.
2. Available Labor Force:
o Inmates provide a low-cost and easily accessible labor force, reducing labor
expenses and offering opportunities for vocational training and rehabilitation.
3. Rehabilitation Focus:
o The project aligns with ZPCS’s mission to rehabilitate inmates by teaching them
valuable skills that improve their employability after release, contributing to
social reintegration.
4. Large-Scale Production Potential:
o The scale of 20,000 broilers provides the opportunity to meet internal demand
within the prison system and generate surplus for external sales, creating revenue
streams and self-sufficiency.
5. Cost-Saving on Food Procurement:
o By producing broilers on-site, the prison will reduce its dependency on external
suppliers for poultry products, significantly lowering operational costs over time.
Weaknesses
Opportunities
1. Revenue Generation:
o The sale of surplus broilers to local markets, restaurants, and retailers presents an
opportunity for ZPCS to generate additional revenue that can be reinvested into
the project or other rehabilitation programs.
2. Partnerships with Private Sector:
o Opportunities exist to collaborate with stockfeed companies, veterinary services,
and agricultural experts, possibly securing favorable terms on supplies and
gaining technical support.
3. Expansion of Production:
o If successful, the project can scale beyond 20,000 broilers or replicate the model
at other correctional facilities across Zimbabwe, expanding food security and
revenue generation efforts for ZPCS.
4. Contributing to National Food Security:
o The project can contribute to Zimbabwe's overall poultry production, supporting
food security efforts, especially during times of shortages or increased demand.
5. Training and Capacity Building:
o The project provides a platform for training inmates and officers in agricultural
skills, leading to personal development, job creation post-incarceration, and
improved management within the institution.
Threats
1. Market Fluctuations:
o Fluctuations in poultry market prices could impact profitability, especially if there
is a surplus of broilers in the market, driving down prices and affecting revenue.
2. Disease Outbreaks:
o A major disease outbreak within the flock could lead to significant losses, halting
production and necessitating costly mitigation measures such as culling,
vaccination, and disinfection.
3. Feed Price Volatility:
o The cost of poultry feed is a major operational expense, and any increase in feed
prices could threaten the economic viability of the project.
4. Competition from Established Poultry Producers:
o The project may face competition from established commercial poultry producers
who have more experience, better economies of scale, and stronger market
presence.
5. Regulatory and Compliance Issues:
o Failure to comply with government regulations regarding food production, animal
welfare, and biosecurity could result in fines or operational shutdowns.
Conclusion: The broiler production project at Chikurubi Farm Prison offers substantial potential
for cost-saving, revenue generation, and rehabilitation, but it also faces challenges that need to be
carefully managed. By leveraging its institutional strengths, addressing weaknesses through
targeted interventions, and capitalizing on external opportunities, the project can mitigate threats
and achieve sustainable success.
Beneficiaries and Stakeholder Characteristics
The broiler production project at Chikurubi Farm Prison involves multiple direct and indirect
beneficiaries, as well as key stakeholders who will contribute to the successful implementation
and management of the initiative. These groups include inmates, the Zimbabwe Prisons and
Correctional Service (ZPCS), ZPCS officers, and other external stakeholders.
1. Inmates (Primary Beneficiaries)
Characteristics:
Demographic: Inmates at Chikurubi Farm Prison consist of a diverse group, both in
terms of age and background, with varying levels of education and skills.
Training and Skill Development Needs: Many inmates have limited formal education
and no prior experience in poultry farming. However, they are highly motivated to learn
new skills that can aid their reintegration into society.
Rehabilitation Focus: This project will provide hands-on training in broiler production,
which is directly aligned with ZPCS’s mission to rehabilitate and reintegrate inmates.
The skills learned in areas such as poultry care, business operations, and farm
management will increase their employment prospects upon release.
Empowerment and Motivation: By engaging in productive work, inmates will gain a
sense of responsibility and self-worth, reducing recidivism rates and promoting personal
growth.
Benefits:
Practical experience and vocational skills in poultry farming and agribusiness.
Increased employability and potential for self-sustained income after release.
Engagement in constructive activities that support rehabilitation and social reintegration.
2. Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS)
Characteristics:
Institutional Mandate: ZPCS is tasked with ensuring the welfare and rehabilitation of
inmates while managing the day-to-day operations of correctional facilities.
Operational Needs: ZPCS faces high operational costs, particularly for food
procurement and institutional supplies. The broiler production project will help reduce
these costs by providing a sustainable, in-house source of poultry meat for prison
consumption.
Long-term Strategic Focus: ZPCS aims to become more self-sufficient in food
production, minimizing reliance on external suppliers and reducing its operational
budget. Additionally, the institution has a strong interest in inmate rehabilitation
programs that offer practical vocational skills.
Benefits:
Increased food security and cost savings from reduced reliance on external food
suppliers.
A new revenue stream from the sale of surplus poultry products to external markets,
enhancing the financial sustainability of ZPCS.
A successful model for other ZPCS facilities to adopt, further improving food production
across the system.
Strengthened rehabilitation programs that contribute to the institution’s mission and
goals.
3. ZPCS Officers (Prison Officers and Farm Management Staff)
Characteristics:
Roles: ZPCS officers, particularly those involved in the farm’s management, will be
responsible for overseeing daily broiler production activities, ensuring proper biosecurity,
and monitoring inmate training and performance.
Skill Development Needs: Officers may require additional training in poultry production
management and inmate rehabilitation techniques. This project will provide them with
opportunities to expand their expertise in agricultural production and improve their
supervisory skills.
Work Environment: The project offers officers a chance to engage in productive,
impactful work that benefits the institution while contributing to inmate rehabilitation.
Benefits:
Professional development opportunities in large-scale poultry farm management and
agribusiness.
Enhanced leadership skills through inmate training and supervision.
Contribution to ZPCS’s broader goal of self-sufficiency and sustainable institutional
operations.
Improved work satisfaction from managing an economically and socially beneficial
project.
4. External Stakeholders (Indirect Beneficiaries)
Characteristics:
Local Community: The surrounding community will benefit from job creation and
income generation from potential partnerships with local businesses, as the farm will
need external support in areas such as veterinary services, transportation, and input
supply.
Market Buyers: Local retailers, markets, and restaurants will benefit from access to a
consistent supply of high-quality broilers produced by Chikurubi Farm Prison.
Government and Development Agencies: National government bodies and non-
governmental organizations (NGOs) focused on food security, prison reforms, and
rehabilitation will have a vested interest in the success of this project, as it can serve as a
model for other correctional facilities across Zimbabwe.
4. Stockfeed Companies (Key Stakeholders)
Characteristics:
Critical Suppliers: Stockfeed companies will be essential partners, supplying the high-
quality feed needed to rear the 20,000 broilers efficiently. Poultry feed constitutes a
significant portion of broiler production costs, making these companies crucial to the
success of the project.
Supply Chain Partners: The relationship between Chikurubi Farm Prison and stockfeed
companies creates a mutually beneficial supply chain partnership. These companies are
likely to offer technical support and advice on feed management to maximize growth
rates and feed efficiency.
Benefits:
Stable Demand: The project provides stockfeed companies with a reliable, consistent
customer for their products, ensuring stable business.
Partnership Opportunities: The companies can collaborate with ZPCS on feed supply
contracts and may offer advisory services to improve the efficiency of feed utilization.
Business Growth: With the potential for expansion or replication of the project to other
ZPCS facilities, stockfeed companies can grow their customer base and enhance their
market presence.
5. Veterinary Experts and Agricultural Consultants (Technical Stakeholders)
Characteristics:
Advisory Role: Veterinary experts will be key stakeholders, offering advice on poultry
health, vaccinations, and disease prevention. Their involvement is critical in ensuring
high survival rates and optimal broiler growth.
Technical Assistance: Agricultural consultants will provide guidance on farm
management practices, brooding techniques, and biosecurity protocols, helping to
optimize production efficiency.
Benefits:
Partnerships with ZPCS: These stakeholders will gain from ongoing partnerships with
ZPCS, providing technical expertise and expanding their networks within the agricultural
and corrections sectors.
Knowledge Transfer: Veterinary and agricultural experts can use the broiler production
project as a model for similar interventions, thereby enhancing their visibility and
influence in prison rehabilitation programs.
Benefits:
Job creation and economic activity generated from procurement of inputs and
transportation of products.
Consistent supply of poultry meat to local markets, improving access to affordable
protein for the community.
Development of a replicable model that can contribute to broader food security and
prison reform efforts in Zimbabwe.
5. Other Key Stakeholders
Veterinary and Agricultural Experts: These stakeholders will provide ongoing
technical assistance, ensuring best practices in poultry health, nutrition, and production.
Local Businesses and Suppliers: Suppliers of feed, vaccines, and equipment will be
critical to the success of the broiler farm, ensuring timely access to high-quality inputs.
Financial Institutions and Donors: Financial stakeholders may provide investment or
grants to fund infrastructure improvements, training programs, and expansion of the
broiler farm operations.
Project implementations institutional information, work plan, personal, and other
resources, monitoring and evaluation
6. Local Community and External Markets (Indirect Beneficiaries)
Characteristics:
Economic Participants: The local community will benefit indirectly from the economic
activity generated by the project. Local businesses may supply additional inputs,
transportation services, and other logistical support.
Buyers and Retailers: External markets, such as local retailers, restaurants, and
butcheries, will benefit from a steady supply of fresh, high-quality broilers produced by
Chikurubi Farm Prison.
Benefits:
Economic Growth: The project will contribute to the local economy by creating demand
for goods and services, particularly in the agricultural supply chain.
Food Security: The availability of surplus broilers for sale in the local market will
enhance food security, providing affordable protein to consumers.
Employment Creation: The project may create job opportunities for locals, especially in
logistics, sales, and marketing of the poultry products.
6. Local Community and External Markets (Indirect Beneficiaries)
Characteristics:
Economic Participants: The local community will benefit indirectly from the economic
activity generated by the project. Local businesses may supply additional inputs,
transportation services, and other logistical support.
Buyers and Retailers: External markets, such as local retailers, restaurants, and
butcheries, will benefit from a steady supply of fresh, high-quality broilers produced by
Chikurubi Farm Prison.
Benefits:
Economic Growth: The project will contribute to the local economy by creating demand
for goods and services, particularly in the agricultural supply chain.
Food Security: The availability of surplus broilers for sale in the local market will
enhance food security, providing affordable protein to consumers.
Employment Creation: The project may create job opportunities for locals, especially in
logistics, sales, and marketing of the poultry products.
Project cost and funding
Project Cost and Funding
The establishment and operation of the 20,000 broiler production unit at Chikurubi Farm Prison
require careful financial planning and allocation of resources. The costs of the project can be
categorized into capital costs (for infrastructure and initial setup) and operational costs (for the
day-to-day running of the farm). This section outlines the expected costs and identifies potential
funding sources to ensure the project’s financial sustainability.
1. Capital Costs (Initial Setup Costs)
These are one-time expenses incurred to set up the broiler production facility and ensure that all
necessary infrastructure and equipment are in place. The estimated capital costs include:
A. Infrastructure Development
Poultry Housing Construction/Renovation: Construction or renovation of broiler
houses to accommodate 20,000 birds, ensuring adequate ventilation, temperature control,
and biosecurity measures.
o Estimated Cost: $80,000 – $120,000
B. Equipment Procurement
Brooding and Heating Systems: Installation of brooding equipment to maintain optimal
temperatures for day-old chicks.
o Estimated Cost: $5,000 – $10,000
Feeders and Drinkers: Purchase of feeding and drinking systems for the broilers.
o Estimated Cost: $10,000 – $15,000
Water Supply and Storage Systems: Installation of a water supply system, including
tanks and plumbing to ensure a consistent water supply for the birds.
o Estimated Cost: $8,000 – $12,000
Lighting Systems: Proper lighting for the poultry houses, critical for maintaining broiler
growth rates.
o Estimated Cost: $3,000 – $5,000
C. Vehicle and Transport Costs
Transportation for Inputs and Products: Purchase or lease of a vehicle for transporting
feed, broilers, and other materials between suppliers, markets, and the prison.
o Estimated Cost: $20,000 – $30,000
2. Operational Costs (Recurring Costs)
These are the ongoing costs required to run the broiler production facility, including feed, labor,
veterinary care, and other recurring expenses.
A. Stockfeed Costs
Broiler Feed: The largest operational cost will be for broiler feed, with a requirement of
approximately 3.5 kg of feed per broiler from day-old chicks to market-ready broilers.
o Estimated Cost (per cycle): $30,000 – $35,000
B. Chicks Procurement
Day-Old Chicks: Procuring 20,000 day-old chicks for each production cycle from
reputable suppliers.
o Estimated Cost (per cycle): $12,000 – $15,000
C. Vaccination and Veterinary Services
Vaccination: Ensuring the health of the broilers through vaccinations and routine
veterinary care to prevent diseases.
o Estimated Cost (per cycle): $2,500 – $4,000
Veterinary Services: Contracting a veterinary expert to provide health assessments and
disease prevention strategies.
o Estimated Cost (annual): $4,000 – $6,000
D. Labor Costs
Inmate Labor and Training Costs: Costs related to inmate labor management and the
provision of training in broiler farming techniques. While inmate labor is low-cost,
resources will be needed for supervision and skill development.
o Estimated Cost (annual): $10,000 – $15,000
E. Utilities and Miscellaneous Expenses
Electricity and Water Costs: Utilities required for heating, lighting, and water supply
systems within the poultry houses.
o Estimated Cost (annual): $5,000 – $8,000
Biosecurity and Sanitation Supplies: Ensuring hygiene and biosecurity through the
procurement of cleaning supplies, disinfectants, and protective clothing.
o Estimated Cost (annual): $2,000 – $4,000
3. Total Project Cost (Estimates)
Capital Costs