In the heart of Kenya, Anna Ndunda has revolutionized her poultry farming enterprise, emerging as a trailblazer in the nation’s poultry industry.
At the forefront of her operation is a sophisticated battery cage system, symbolizing her unwavering commitment and innovative approach.
Ndunda’s journey commenced with an ardor for poultry. Recognizing the importance of efficient and sanitary egg production, she implemented a meticulous approach to her farming methods.
The adoption of the battery cage system emerged as the linchpin of her triumph. In a previous media interview, she elucidated, “The cage system allows us to closely monitor the health and productivity of individual birds. This enables us to take prompt actions, such as isolating sick birds. More importantly, the battery cage system optimizes feed and water utilization, minimizing wastage.”
In a nation where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, Ndunda’s insights into effective poultry farming practices hold immense value.
She emphasized the significance of procuring high-quality day-old chicks from certified dealers. These chicks underwent a rigorous vaccination regimen, providing protection against common diseases and ensuring a robust start to their lives.
“We rear Issa Brown, a hybrid chicken recognized for its high egg production. Chicks are transitioned from the brooder to the cages at three months old, commencing egg-laying at 18-20 weeks and continuing until they reach 18 months,” she shared in a previous interview with Seeds of Gold.
Ndunda’s success trajectory took a pivotal turn when she visited President William Ruto’s renowned chicken farm in Sugoi, Uasin Gishu County. Here, she gleaned insights into the nuances of the cage system and the pivotal role played by clean water and high-quality feeds in poultry production. Armed with this newfound knowledge, she revamped her farming practices, placing the health and comfort of her birds at the forefront.
With 1,500 layers under her stewardship, Ndunda stands as one of the largest poultry farmers in her county. Producing 43 trays of eggs daily attests to the efficacy of her methods. Wholesalers eagerly acquire these eggs, distributing them to individuals, restaurants, and hotels in the bustling town of Wote. Customers laud the size and cleanliness of the eggs, qualities attributed to Ndunda’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards.
However, Ndunda’s path to success has not been devoid of challenges. In a semi-arid region prone to drought and crop failures, she identified water and feed as her primary obstacles. Despite these challenges, she perseveres, allocating a substantial daily budget for commercial feeds and a monthly budget for purchasing water. Her dedication to surmounting these hurdles speaks volumes about her commitment to the industry and her community.
Looking ahead, Ndunda harbors ambitious plans. She aims to expand her poultry stock to 10,000 birds, aspiring to reach greater heights in egg production. Additionally, she envisions establishing a model farm, opening its doors for training sessions on poultry farming and egg production.
By disseminating her knowledge and experiences, Ndunda aspires to ignite inspiration in a new generation of poultry farmers, further fortifying Kenya’s agricultural landscape.
