In the heart of Ghana’s poultry sector, a complex web of challenges has long hindered growth and sustainability. These issues, often addressed in isolation, have led to interventions that overlook the broader implications across the value chain. A recent study, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, sheds light on these systemic problems, offering a holistic prognosis that could reshape the industry’s future. Led by Joshua Aboah of WorldFish’s Inclusive Aquatic Food Market Systems Team in Nairobi, Kenya, the research employs a participatory group model building approach to unravel the intricate dynamics at play.
The study identifies four key systemic problems: inadequate research funding, low adherence to biosecurity measures, lack of access to credit, and competition from cheap imports. By mapping causal loop diagrams and analyzing feedback loops, the research reveals three emerging problem archetypes that highlight the interconnected nature of these challenges.
First, the “underachievement archetype” emerges when technology adoption, fueled by increased research funding, clashes with the non-adherence to biosecurity measures as a cost-cutting strategy at the farm level. This creates a “limit to growth” scenario, where potential advancements are stifled by inadequate safety practices. “The interaction between these factors is a double-edged sword,” Aboah explains. “While increased funding can drive innovation, it’s crucial that biosecurity measures are also prioritized to ensure sustainable growth.”
Second, the “out-of-control archetype” surfaces when the misuse of antimicrobials, stemming from lax biosecurity measures, interacts with industry collapse and a subsequent surge in chicken imports. This vicious cycle not only undermines local production but also poses significant health risks. “The misuse of antimicrobials is a ticking time bomb,” warns Aboah. “It not only threatens the health of consumers but also the long-term viability of the poultry industry.”
Third, the “relative achievement archetype” centers around the reinforcing feedback loop of imported chicken as a response to food insecurity concerns. This creates a “success to the successful” scenario, where importers prosper at the expense of the entire industry. “This archetype underscores the need for a balanced approach that supports both local production and import regulation,” Aboah notes.
The research, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, provides a roadmap for stakeholders to evaluate the unintended consequences of proposed government policies. By understanding these archetypes, policymakers and industry players can develop more effective strategies to rejuvenate local poultry production. This could lead to a more resilient and sustainable poultry sector, benefiting farmers, consumers, and the broader economy.
As the poultry sector grapples with these challenges, the insights from this study offer a beacon of hope. By adopting a systems thinking approach, stakeholders can address these interconnected issues more effectively, paving the way for a thriving and sustainable poultry industry in Ghana. The research underscores the importance of holistic interventions that consider the broader implications of each challenge, ensuring that the poultry sector can overcome these systemic problems and achieve long-term success.