Ann Wakili Mwangi’s extraordinary odyssey from humble beginnings to her current role as the director of Meved Dairy Farm is a testament to her relentless determination and unwavering perseverance.
Hailing from a rural background, Ann’s early life was marked by a profound sense of resilience and a strong work ethic. Her pursuit of education led her to enroll in a diploma course in Midwifery in 1981, a decision that would lay the groundwork for her future endeavors.
In 1986, Ann and her husband embarked on a new chapter in their lives when they acquired a modest 5-acre parcel of land, setting the stage for their foray into agriculture. Their initial attempt at maize farming faced adversity due to unpredictable weather conditions, but their indomitable spirit remained unshaken.
Despite encountering initial setbacks, they persevered, sowing seeds again in the following season. Their unwavering determination eventually bore fruit. This early experience instilled in them the value of resilience, molding their approach to farming in the years that followed.
The turning point for their farm arrived in 2007 when they ventured into animal farming, beginning with a Zebu cow. Recognizing the scarcity of milk in their region, they introduced hybrid cows to augment milk production.
Their tireless dedication yielded results, leading to a consistent increase in milk yield. The tumultuous events of the 2007/2008 post-election violence compelled them to acquire six Fresian cows, a decision that significantly bolstered their milk production.
Over time, their daily milk supply reached an impressive 150 liters, marking a pivotal moment for Meved Dairy Farm. To accommodate this surplus, they made the wise investment in a cooling system, facilitating efficient milk storage following each sale. They secured a reliable market for their products, consolidating their foothold in the industry.
Despite formidable challenges such as droughts that temporarily affected their livestock, Ann remained undaunted. They diversified their operations by incorporating poultry farming into their portfolio. Today, Meved Dairy Farm is home to 10,000 chickens, producing an abundance of eggs to meet the high demand for their products.
Their journey was not without hurdles, with the soaring cost of electricity being a significant obstacle. However, Ann’s unwavering commitment to her community remained unwavering. The farm emerged as a beacon of hope, providing employment to 72 permanent staff members and 10 daily casual workers, thereby addressing issues of unemployment and stemming the tide of rural-to-urban migration.
Through sheer determination and relentless hard work, Ann Wakili Mwangi has transformed a modest piece of land into a thriving agricultural enterprise. Her remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to all those who aspire to turn adversity into opportunity through tenacity and unwavering resolve.
