The Chief Executive Officer of Bigg Bunny Farms Limited and Nhyira Feeds, Nathaniel A. Quartey, has urged livestock farmers to prioritise proper animal nutrition if they want to achieve sustainable profits from commercial farming.
Speaking on Adwinton Business Hour with host Awal Yahya, Mr. Quartey emphasized that feed remains the single most important factor influencing animal growth, productivity, and farm profitability.
According to him, many farmers invest heavily in housing, equipment, and animal stock but often overlook the importance of scientifically formulated and nutritionally balanced feed.
“If you want to make profits from commercial farming, then start seeking advice on proper nutritious feeds,” Mr. Quartey stated. “The quality of feed given to animals directly affects their growth rate, health status, reproductive performance, and ultimately the farmer’s returns.”
He explained that livestock require different nutrient levels depending on their species, age, and production stage, making it essential for farmers to consult qualified nutritionists and feed experts before selecting feed products or formulating their own rations.
Mr. Quartey noted that poor feeding practices remain one of the major causes of low productivity and financial losses in the livestock sector. He said many farmers unknowingly use unbalanced diets that fail to provide the nutrients required for optimum animal performance.
“Commercial farming should be treated as a business,” he said. “Every feeding decision has financial implications. Proper nutrition helps animals convert feed efficiently into meat, eggs, milk, or other products, thereby increasing profitability.”
The agribusiness entrepreneur further encouraged farmers to invest in quality feed and avoid making purchasing decisions based solely on price.
According to him, while quality feed may appear more expensive initially, it often delivers better results through improved growth rates, reduced mortality, stronger immunity, and higher production output.
Mr. Quartey also called for increased education and awareness on animal nutrition across Ghana’s agricultural sector, stressing that knowledge-driven farming is key to improving productivity and ensuring food security.
Industry experts have consistently identified feed and nutrition as the foundation of successful livestock production, with feed costs accounting for the largest portion of total production expenses on most commercial farms.
Mr. Quartey’s comments form part of ongoing discussions aimed at promoting best practices in livestock management and strengthening the competitiveness of Ghana’s growing agribusiness sector.