That the readily available markets are more than 

 capable of absorbing the extreme limit of supplies 

 likely to be forthcoming from B.E.A. for very many 

 years to come, is unquestionable : indeed it is not 

 going too far to say that the tendency will be for 

 Britain to rely more than ever, in the future, on the 

 Colonies for her supply of bacon products, and the 

 exceptional advantages enjoyed by British East Africa 

 for pig-breeding should place her in a very favourable 

 position. 



One of the most hopeful features of pig-breeding cost of 

 in B.E.A. is that the cost of production is very low, production. 

 probably as low as in any other country where pig- 

 breeding is an important industry. 



The rich grazing found all over the Highlands, 

 supplemented by a considered allowance of maize, 

 barley, potatoes, etc., provides excellent and com- 

 paratively inexpensive feeding. 



Maize, barley, potatoes, rape, kale and lucerne 

 can be cheaply raised, and in the dairying centres 

 there are in addition the usual bye-products. 



The equable cHmate obviates the necessity for 

 elaborate housing accommodation, the principal items 

 of expense being sound thatch roof, floors and 

 fencing. 



To produce a bacon pig of 200 lbs. weight worth ratio of 

 25 cents per pound live weight (which price is laid j'rofit. 

 down as a fair figure for factories to pay the breeder), 

 the cost should not be more than Rs. 32/- per pig, 

 taking into consideration labour and general expenses. 

 This leaves a profit of Rs. 18/- {£1 4s.), which shows 

 a return per annum of approximately 50% on the 

 capital it is necessary to expend; in that the capital 

 can be turned over twice in the same year by rearing 

 and fattening two litters from the same sow in the 

 twelve months, or by purchasing weaners. 



The Pig-breeders Association of B.E.A. has been conclusions. 

 formed, and has been well supported by breeders, so 

 that the future of the industry, fostered by a body of 

 this sort, should be assured. 



39 



