Examining practices and traditions of waste re-use as an alternative feedstock in the poultry industry in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Abstract

The overarching aim and the purpose of this case study was to examine the practices of the poultry industry’s waste re-use as an alternative feedstock for enhancing the livelihood of Urban Farmers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. In the study, the researcher relied on 13 in-depth interviews which required the participants to share their knowledge and experiences in the poultry industry. Qualitative methodology was used, with thematic analysis to analyze the data. Purposive and snowball sampling was the method of sample selection, and interviews and questionnaires were employed for data collection. A theoretical framework for discussing and studying indigenous knowledge as a theory of communication that fluidly operates within and outside of modernity, was adopted. This discussion is part of a continuance of public conversations on the path of indigenous knowledge in development studies, and communication research. The main findings were that there were many environmental concerns regarding poultry waste. These can be solved by proper waste management systems, which were shown by the different waste management re-use practices that were adopted over the years by the different poultry sectors in South Africa. The other finding was that using poultry by-products as fertilizers in soil proves to have a positive crop yield throughout the year and solves the disposal problems from poultry waste. One of the key conclusions was that poultry does not only serve as a healthy source of protein but is also economical for both farmers and consumers. This study showed that there are more female farmers that are integrated into the poultry farming sector. To minimize the negative impacts brought by the poultry industry, there needs to be proper waste management implementations, as known by the numerous sustainable re-use patterns.