Ann Wambui: The Modern Poultry Entrepreneur

Ann Wambui’s journey into poultry farming is a compelling story of ambition, adaptation, and leveraging technology for success. Starting with a modest inspiration, she has built a thriving 3,000-bird layer farm that serves as a model for modern poultry entrepreneurship in Kenya. This article details Ann’s path, focusing on her commitment to biosecurity, traceability, and the utilization of digital tools.

From Inspiration to Implementation

Ann’s initial interest in poultry farming stemmed from a desire for financial independence and a recognition of the growing demand for affordable protein in Kenya. She began by researching different poultry farming models, attending workshops, and networking with established farmers. Starting small is a common theme among successful poultry entrepreneurs, and Ann began with a manageable flock of 500 chicks, carefully monitoring their growth and health. This allowed her to learn the ropes and refine her approach before scaling up.

Scaling to 3,000 Birds

The initial success spurred Ann to expand. She secured funding through a combination of personal savings and agricultural loans, allowing her to invest in larger, more sophisticated housing and equipment. The farm now operates with a capacity of 3,000 layers, producing a significant volume of eggs for local markets. A critical aspect of her growth was a focus on efficiency, optimizing feed conversion ratios, and minimizing mortality rates.

Biosecurity: A Cornerstone of Success