Georgina Chepkoech is a farmer from Gina in Nakuru County.
The entrepreneur started farming in 2015 after graduating from university.
A year later, Georgina who studied Animal Health and Production resigned from a well-paying job to fully concentrate on dairy farming.
Here is her story as told by WoK.
Georgina is a graduate of Egerton University having studied a course in Animal Health and Production.
Although she ventured into farming immediately after graduating from university, she also landed a job that earned her Ksh 50,000 per month.
However, Georgina was not content with her full-time job and in 2016, she decided to call it quits and focus on farming.
“I was employed but the decision to venture into commercial farming came in 2016 when I resigned to concentrate on intensive farming. I’m passionate about animal keeping,” she said.
To start off, Georgina bought one dairy cow, a Friesian, at Ksh 180,000 and three calves at the same price.
The calves later matured and started producing milk.
Each cow produces at least 20 litres of milk which she sells to her neighbors and supply some to hotels within Nakuru town.
Georgina also owns a milk ATM which she uses to sell milk to people within her locality.
“In a day, I make more than Ksh 8,000. If I deduct the cost of water, labour and feeds, I get a profit of more than Ksh 4,000,” she said.
She makes at least Ksh 150,000 per month.
Georgina also shared that she makes her own feeds in a bid to beat the high cost of commercial animal feeds.
This way, she explained, assures her of quality.
“I use my own total mixed ration which we do in the farm. We plant Boma Rhodes among other protein concentrates, and in case of any surplus, we sell to our neighbors,” she explained.
On dealing with the harsh climatic conditions in Nakuru County, Georgina who has four employees said;
“Nakuru weather is favorable for farming but sometimes it is very cold, affecting milk production. I thus, use my knowledge in animal health and production to solve the situation
“I work closely with a veterinary officer to sustain production, and make sure I’m up to date with dairy farming information by researching online and attending trade fairs.”
She also noted that she does not regret her decision to quit her job.
“Quitting your job to start a business takes courage and determination. Some people are so scared of retirement even after they have exhausted their working years,” Georgina pointed out.
