Adaptive advice for a growing poultry business in Tanzania

In Tanzania, AKM Glitters demonstrates how continuity and flexibility in collaboration can transform an ambitious investment into a functioning, inclusive business. What began as advice on location evolved into a blended PUM project combining knowledge exchange and online follow-up. This approach strengthened both production and management in a fast-growing poultry value chain.

AKM Glitters is an integrated poultry company based in Tanzania, founded by female entrepreneur Elisabeth Swai. What began in 2004 with chickens kept inside her home developed into a professional operation with hatcheries, parent stock, veterinary services and feed production. Over the years, the company has grown into a major player, working with hundreds of small franchise farms across the country, the majority led by women.

Alongside her business activities, Elisabeth is active in entrepreneurial networks and leadership platforms, advocating for inclusive agribusiness. AKM Glitters’ model combines commercial growth with access to quality inputs, training and markets for smallholder farmers, contributing to employment, food security and local economic development.

From investment to operation

In 2021, AKM Glitters invested in a new feed mill to produce poultry feed for broilers and layers. Although the factory was technically ready, start-up was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic. When operations resumed, the company approached PUM to translate the investment into a reliable production process.

During the first project phase in 2023, PUM expert Frits Hermans worked on-site with management and staff to start up the factory, introduce quality and safety standards, and establish clear production and maintenance procedures. Step by step, operators learned how to run the plant independently and consistently, laying the foundation for stable feed production adapted to local market requirements.

Flexible follow-up through online collaboration

As the company continued to grow, AKM Glitters requested a follow-up project focused on efficiency, quality assurance and management systems. Travel restrictions during the election period made a visit to Tanzania impossible. The project therefore continued online, demonstrating PUM’s flexibility in maintaining momentum.

During an intensive online seminar with the full management team, PUM expert Frits addressed topics ranging from technical maintenance and dosing accuracy to production planning, record keeping and shift leadership. The digital format enabled broad participation across the organisation and helped connect technical operations with strategic planning.

Strengthening impact across the value chain

Today, AKM Glitters is better positioned to scale its feed production while improving consistency, cost control and quality management. These improvements support the company’s wider franchise network, strengthening the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and creating employment opportunities for youth and women across rural areas.

By producing quality feed locally, the company reduces dependency on imports and supports more sustainable poultry production. Ongoing attention to sourcing, quality control and efficiency also contributes to improved food safety and environmental performance. Looking ahead, AKM Glitters aims to further professionalise its operations and prepare for future certification, reinforcing its role as a reliable partner in Tanzania’s poultry sector.