Characterization of turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) farming system on Idjwi Island in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

Objectives : The current study aims at understanding the state of Meleagris gallopavo turkey husbandry in Idjwi island, in DRC. It stands as a preliminary study that contributes to the improvement of turkey production by focusing on breeding management in terms of feeding, housing, reproduction and disease management. Methodology and Results: A survey of 150 turkey farming households in Idjwi Island, was conducted to collect data related to farming techniques and main constraints. Results revealed that majority of farmers are involved in agriculture (67.07%), including turkey farming (18.90%) characterized by free-range system (52.44%), resulting in uncontrolled reproduction (99.39%). Turkeys lay 10.4±1.4 eggs/cycle and regardless of sex poults are mature at a year old. However, deparasitation (92.68%) and hemp based-phytotherapy are commonly used to mitigate disease risks and Newcastle remains the main disease of turkey (70.12%). Health issues are still standing as the main constraint faced by farmers (44.51%). Conclusion and application of results: Turkey farming system in Idjwi island relies on outdated methods with indigenous breeds, leading to low production. Our study highlights the importance of improving the rearing conditions of indigenous turkeys due to their hardiness and adaptation, in order to achieve production potential while preserving biodiversity. Understanding the breeders’ profile and husbandry management technique, including feeding, housing, reproduction, health care and constraints, would help to improve turkey production and welfare. Keywords: Husbandry System, Turkeys, Constraints, South Kivu RESUME Objectifs: La présente étude visait à caractériser l’état de l’élevage des dindes dans l’île d’Idjwi, en RDC. Il s’agit d’une étude préliminaire qui contribue à l’amélioration de la production des dindes en se focalisant sur la gestion de l’élevage en termes d’alimentation, de logement, de reproduction et de gestion des maladies. Méthodologie et Résultats: Une enquête a été menée auprès de 150 ménages éleveurs de dindes sur l’île d’Idjwi afin de receuillir les informations sur les techniques d’élevage et les principals contraintes. Les résultats ont révélé que la majorité des agriculteurs est impliquée dans l’agriculture (67,07%) incluant l’élevage des dindes (18,90%) caractérisé par un système d’élevage en divagation (52,44%), ce qui entraine une reproduction incontrôlée (99,39%). Les dindes pondent 10,4±1,4 oeufs/cycle et quel que soi