A Geographical Analysis of Poultry Production Issues in Sulaymaniyah Governorate

Abstract

This study investigates the major challenges facing poultry production in Sulaymaniyah Governorate using field data and statistical analysis to evaluate their effects on production quantity and quality. It examines issues related to farm distribution, environmental conditions, production inputs, poultry diseases, veterinary services, and marketing. The findings indicate that 51% of poultry farms are located near major roads, while 90% are situated away from water sources, increasing production costs. High summer temperatures significantly affect production by raising poultry mortality rates to 14% in July and reducing average chicken weight. Production is further constrained by dependence on commercial feed and rising input costs, with feed and chicks accounting for 72.8% and 16.6% of total operating costs, respectively. The study also identifies a shortage of skilled labour and widespread disease outbreaks, particularly Newcastle disease (81%) and infectious bronchitis (91%), reflecting weaknesses in veterinary and animal health services. Marketing problems include inadequate transportation, unstable market prices, and competition from imported poultry products. The study proposes practical recommendations to improve farm location planning, strengthen veterinary services, reduce production costs, and enhance marketing systems. These measures aim to improve the efficiency, productivity, and long-term sustainability of the poultry sector in Sulaymaniyah Governorate.