Dissertation (MA Development Studies)There is an emerging and expanding demand for food of animal origin both in the domestic and export markets. Farmers are hence expected to exploit and increase their demand for more adoptive and productive animals. This is in line with the current “Kilimo Kwanza” initiatives and the ongoing National Strategy for Growth and Reduction of Poverty (NSGRP) as envisaged in the Tanzania Development Vision 2025. There has been initiative with insignificant results since colonial times to introduce breeds of improved local poultry with the intention of increasing the production of eggs and meat. However, despite the fact that performance of local poultry is characterized by slow growth rates, low fertility and calving rates and low eggs yield and carcass weight, the poultry keepers are persisting with it. This study was undertaken with the objective of examining the contribution of local poultry keeping to the poverty reduction. The study was undertaken in the lowlands of Kongwa district, Dodoma region. It used data from a cross – sectional survey design that was conducted on a sample of smallholder poultry keepers; poultry input suppliers, poultry output users, veterinary official and key informants. The study used both primary and secondary data for its conclusion and recommendations. In concluding, the study recommended poultry keeping policy reforms in the country, identified factors responsible for the low adoption of dairy technologies and provided information for designing strategies and pro – poor policies to improve dairy and other poultry production in the country.