Beginners’ guide to snail farming in Kenya

• Heliciculture, or snail farming, is a sort of agricultural business that entails breeding and growing snails for food or generating snail slime, also known as snail mucus or snail secretion.
• Snail farming is a relatively young industry in Kenya, but it has the potential to be a source of revenue and employment for small-scale farmers and business owners.
• Below is a guide to starting the business in Kenya:

Factors to consider in snail farming

1. Climate: Snails are sensitive to temperature and humidity. The climate in the farming area should be suitable for snails, with moderate temperatures ranging between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of around 70 to 90 percent.
2. Species selection: Different species of snails have varying growth rates, dietary preferences, and adaptability to different climates. The most common snail species used in snail farming are Helix aspersa and Achatina spp. It is essential to choose a species that is well-suited to the local climate and market demand.
3. Housing and enclosure: Snails require proper housing and enclosures to thrive. They need protection from extreme weather conditions, predators, and diseases. Enclosures can be constructed using low-cost materials like wood and mesh wire. The enclosure should be well-ventilated, secure, and provide sufficient space for snail movement.
4. Feeding: Snails are mainly herbivores and feed on a variety of plant materials. They need a balanced diet rich in calcium for shell development. Common feed sources include vegetables, fruits, leaves, and kitchen waste. It’s important to ensure a consistent and nutritious food supply for the snails.
5. Soil and substrate: Snails require suitable soil and substrate for burrowing and egg-laying. The soil should be well-drained, loamy, and free from chemicals or pesticides. Adding organic matter like compost can enhance soil fertility and provide essential nutrients.
6. Pest and disease management: Snails can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as mites, nematodes, fungi, and bacterial infections. Implementing good hygiene practices, regular cleaning, and monitoring can help prevent and manage these issues. Quarantine measures should also be in place for newly acquired snails to prevent the introduction of diseases to the farm.
7. Marketing and market demand: Before starting a snail farm, it is crucial to assess the market demand for snail products. Identify potential buyers, such as restaurants, hotels, and individual consumers, and determine their preferences and purchasing power. Developing a marketing strategy and understanding the distribution channels will be essential for the success of your snail farming business.
8. Regulatory requirements: Familiarize yourself with the relevant regulations, permits, and licenses required for snail farming in Kenya. Contact local authorities or agricultural agencies to ensure compliance with legal and sanitary requirements.
9. Training and knowledge: Acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for snail farming through training programs, workshops, or by consulting experienced snail farmers. Understanding the biology, behavior, and management practices of snails will greatly contribute to the success of your venture.
10. Financial considerations: Determine the initial investment required to set up the farm, including costs for infrastructure, housing, breeding stock, feed, and equipment. Develop a realistic business plan and budget, taking into account potential income streams, operational costs, and expected returns on investment.

What is the maturity period for snails in Kenya?

Snails can mature at different times depending on their species. The Giant African Land Snail (Achatina fulica) is a common species of land snail in Kenya. These snails can take anywhere between six months and a year to reach maturity, depending on the habitat and the rate of each individual’s growth.

Snails go through a number of developmental stages during the maturity period, including egg hatching, growth as juveniles, and reaching sexual maturity. The growth and development of snails can be influenced by variables like temperature, humidity, and the availability of food.

Because they have the potential to become invasive species, snails are subject to regulation in various nations. It is advised to speak with local agricultural officials or specialists if you are interested in keeping or growing snails in Kenya in order to ensure compliance with laws and secure the required licenses.

Best snail types to farm

Few snail species are ideal for commercial production in Kenya when it comes to snail farming because of their capacity for rapid growth rates and their ability to adapt to the local climate. Here are two snail species that are frequently suggested for cultivation in Kenya:

• Giant African Land Snails, or Achatina fulica, are the most widely cultivated snails in the world due to their rapid development and high rate of reproduction. The achatina fulica is very simple to care for and tolerating of a wide range of climatic conditions. They have a high meat production and can get rather big.
• Due to its quick development and big size, the Achatina achatina (Tiger Land Snail) species is also well-liked for farming. High market demand and excellent meat quality are characteristics of achatina. However, compared to Achatina fulica, it needs a little bit more humidity.

It’s crucial to speak with regional agricultural authorities or Kenyan organisations for snail farming before beginning one to receive more information relevant to your area. They can advise you on the best species to use, how to get young snails, and how to capitalize on market prospects.

Suitable soils for snails

1. Loamy Soil: Snails prefer loamy soil, which is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay. Loam retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, providing a good habitat for snails.
2. Sandy Soil: Snails can also survive in sandy soil as long as it has a good moisture content. However, sandy soil tends to drain quickly, so it may require more frequent watering.
3. Red Soil: Red soil, commonly found in many regions of Kenya, can be suitable for snails as long as it is supplemented with organic matter to improve moisture retention.

Suitable foods for snails

1. Leafy Greens: Snails enjoy a variety of leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, cabbage, kale, and dandelion leaves. These provide essential nutrients and moisture.
2. Fruit and Vegetable Scraps: Snails can consume leftover fruits and vegetables, including cucumber, carrot tops, melon rinds, and crushed eggshells (as a calcium source).
3. Legumes: Offer snails legumes like beans, peas, and lentils, which provide protein and additional nutrients.
4. Commercial Snail Feed: You can also find commercially available snail feed, which is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of snails. These feeds are usually a blend of grains, cereals, and vitamins.

Feeding methods for snails

1. Hand-Feeding: This is a simple method where you directly offer the snails their food. Place the food items in their enclosure, making sure to provide a balanced diet that includes leafy greens, fruits and vegetables, and legumes. Monitor the amount of food consumed and remove any uneaten food after a reasonable period to prevent spoilage.
2. Feeding Trays or Dishes: You can use feeding trays or dishes to provide food for the snails. Place the food in a shallow container and put it in the snail enclosure. This method makes it easier to monitor the snail’s food intake and prevents the food from getting mixed with the soil.
3. Feeding Stations: Create designated feeding stations within the snail enclosure. These stations can be small platforms or containers where you place the food. This method helps keep the food clean and easily accessible for the snails.
4. Grazing Areas: Snails also benefit from having access to a grazing area with live plants. Create a separate section within the enclosure where you grow snail-friendly plants like lettuce, kale, or other leafy greens. Snails can graze on these plants at their own pace.

What is the life cycle for snails?

The life cycle of snails typically consists of several stages, including egg, hatchling (baby snail), juvenile, and adult. Here’s a general overview of the life cycle of snails:

1. Egg Stage: Snails reproduce sexually, with most species being hermaphrodites, meaning they possess both male and female reproductive organs. Snails lay eggs in moist soil or other suitable locations. The eggs are usually small, round, and translucent. The time it takes for the eggs to hatch varies depending on the species and environmental conditions.
2. Hatchling Stage: Once the eggs hatch, tiny snails called hatchlings emerge. These hatchlings have a soft shell and are very fragile. They often remain hidden in the soil or under leaves, as they are vulnerable to predation and harsh environmental conditions.
3. Juvenile Stage: As the hatchlings grow, their shells harden and they enter the juvenile stage. During this stage, snails continue to feed on plant matter and require a suitable habitat with moisture and food. Juvenile snails undergo gradual shell growth and reach a size where they are more resilient to environmental stressors.
4. Adult Stage: As the snails mature, they reach their adult stage. They develop a fully formed shell and reproductive capabilities. Adult snails are usually more resilient and able to withstand variations in environmental conditions. They continue to feed on plant matter and engage in mating to reproduce.

The duration of each stage can vary depending on the species of snail and the environmental conditions. Snails are known for their slow growth rates, and some species can live for several years, while others may have shorter lifespans. Additionally, there may be some variations in the life cycle of specific snail species.

Cost of 1kg of snails in Kenya

Heliciculture, or the practice of producing edible land snails, is proving to be a successful endeavor, with a kilo of meat selling for Ksh1,500.

The cost is determined by the Jomo Kenyatta Institute of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), which also extracts slime at a cost of Ksh1,200 per litre from 3,000 snails, who may produce up to 10 litres per week.

Problems associated with snail farming

1. Lack of awareness and knowledge: Many farmers in Kenya may have limited information or knowledge about snail farming, including suitable breeding methods, feeding, housing, and disease management. This lack of awareness can hinder the growth and success of snail farming ventures.
2. Limited market demand: Snails are not a traditional part of Kenyan cuisine, and there may be limited market demand for snail products. This can make it challenging for snail farmers to sell their produce and generate a steady income.
3. Environmental factors: Snails are sensitive to environmental conditions, and certain factors can impact their growth and survival. High temperatures, low humidity, heavy rainfall, and extreme weather events can affect the health and productivity of snails. Adequate shade, proper ventilation, and maintaining optimal humidity levels are crucial for snail farming success.
4. Predators and pests: Snails are susceptible to predators such as birds, rats, snakes, and other animals. Additionally, various pests like ants and termites can also cause damage to snail pens or enclosures, leading to losses for snail farmers.
5. Disease and health issues: Snails can be susceptible to various diseases and parasites, such as nematodes, mites, and fungal infections. Lack of proper disease management and health practices can lead to reduced productivity and high mortality rates among snails.
6. Lack of suitable breeding stock: Acquiring high-quality breeding stock can be a challenge for snail farmers in Kenya. Access to good-quality snail eggs or snails with desirable traits for breeding purposes may be limited, affecting the potential for genetic improvement and overall productivity.
7. Regulatory constraints: Some snail farmers in Kenya may face regulatory challenges, including obtaining necessary permits or complying with specific regulations related to snail farming. Lack of support or recognition from local authorities can also be a barrier to the development of snail farming as a viable industry.

Conclusion

Despite these obstacles, Kenyan snail farming can still be successful with the right skills, finances, and a well-executed business plan. It is essential for prospective snail farmers to carry out in-depth research, get advice from professionals, and devise plans to get over these challenges in order to run productive snail farming operations.