Özet:

Seasonality in smallholder chicken egg production, demand and supply in Greater Port Harcourt City (GPHC) was studied using exploratory research to build theory. Six wholesalers, six retailers, three intercity traders, six institutional consumers, and the Chairman, Poultry Association of Nigeria, Rivers State, were interviewed one-on-one using a checklist. Focus Group Discussion with eight egg producers was carried out to obtain insight on seasonal influences on the egg chain. Quantitative data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel while qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results indicate that egg production in GPHC is grossly inadequate to meet the demand, thus, encouraging influx of eggs into GPHC from other parts of Nigeria. Egg production, demand and supply in GPHC is influenced by school calendar, Christmas and end of year/new year vacations. Also, smallholder egg production is poorly planned, causing seasonal scarcity and glut. To eliminate seasonal scarcity and glut, capture the full benefits of the high demand periods for stakeholders especially smallholders, extension workers and egg producing entrepreneurs need to emphasize planned production and cost minimization strategies to increase local production and supply competitively priced eggs throughout the year.

Anahtar Kelimeler: