Residents of Amomaso, in Ghana’s Berekum West District of the Bono Region, have called for urgent investigations following the unexplained deaths of thousands of poultry birds, raising concerns about public health.

During a visit to the community, Mr Richard Agyei, manager of Nhyira Farms, confirmed that more than 5,000 birds, including chicks, had died within a short period. 

He stated that the exact cause of the deaths was yet to be established, but assured that measures were being taken to control the situation.

The owner of the farm, Nana Yeboah Asuama, who also serves as the Nkosuohene (sub-chief) of Amomaso, attributed the poultry deaths to inadequate feeding. 

He explained that operational challenges had affected feed supply but insisted the situation was under control.

According to him, the farm has engaged officers from the District Environmental Health Department to manage the situation and prevent further losses. 

He appealed to residents to remain calm, describing the incident as one of the risks sometimes encountered in poultry production.

Despite these assurances, residents living near the farm have expressed serious concerns, particularly over the persistent stench emanating from the facility.

Madam Gifty Oteng, a resident, described the odour as unbearable and disruptive to daily life. 

She also mentioned that the community suspects a possible disease outbreak and has called for the Veterinary Services Department to intervene.

“The stench is too much to bear,” she said, adding that prompt action is needed to protect both human health and nearby farms.

The incident has highlighted broader challenges facing small- and medium-scale poultry farmers, including the affordability of feed, biosecurity, and environmental management. 

Poultry farming remains a key source of income, youth employment and protein supply in many rural communities across Ghana.

Agricultural experts note that unresolved livestock health incidents can threaten local food security, undermine farmer confidence and increase economic vulnerability if not handled transparently and swiftly.

Residents are now urging authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the deaths and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Source: Ghana News Agency