As part of efforts to empower small-scale poultry producers and strengthen food security in Ghana, the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Academic City University has developed an innovative low-cost poultry incubator using locally sourced materials and technology.

The project was developed to tackle some of the major problems poultry farmers face, including the high price of imported incubators, unstable electricity supply and poor hatch success rates. By creating an affordable, made-in-Ghana solution, the department is helping reduce dependence on expensive imports while supporting increased local chick production.

The project, aligned with the government’s Nkoko Nkitinkiti programme, demonstrates two functional prototypes:

• An Arduino-based incubator developed from scratch
• A PID controller-based version for more precise temperature and humidity regulation

The incubators feature automatic egg turning (45 degrees every two hours), real-time monitoring of temperature and humidity, and the capacity to hatch fertilised eggs within the standard 18–21 day period. Plans are underway to integrate solar power and standby systems to ensure functionality in off-grid rural areas.

Speaking on the project, Daniel Morrison, Faculty Assistant at the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, noted that the initiative reflects the department’s commitment to practical, industry-relevant innovation.

“This project goes beyond building a machine. Our goal is to transfer knowledge and skills so that farmers, youth groups, and entrepreneurs can build and operate their own incubators, creating sustainable businesses and contributing to Ghana’s agricultural growth.”

As a forward-thinking institution, Academic City University continues to prioritise hands-on projects that tackle real national challenges. The Electrical and Electronics Engineering Department is actively leveraging its expertise in embedded systems, automation, and renewable energy to develop solutions that matter to Ghana’s development.

Watch the full project demonstration here:

Individuals passionate about engineering, innovation, and making a direct impact are encouraged to explore Academic City University’s programmes via https://acity.edu.gh/undergraduate-programmes-landing/?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=Blog+Post&utm_campaign=Poultry+Incubator