Christopher Angote, a former Agriculture teacher, has transformed his life by trading the chalkboard for farming tools. Today, he is a thriving vegetable farmer, achieving both financial independence and professional fulfillment.
Christopher’s farm, located in Emuhaya, Vihiga County, covers an expansive 7.5 acres of land dedicated to cultivating a wide variety of crops. His journey began modestly on a 0.4-acre plot he inherited from his father. However, after realizing his teaching salary couldn’t meet his financial needs and aspirations, he decided to pursue farming full-time. Recognizing the immense potential in agriculture, he boldly acquired an additional 7.1 acres solely for vegetable production.
On his farm, Christopher grows an impressive range of vegetables, including cowpeas, black nightshade, slender leaf, spider plant, jute mallow, amaranth, onions, kales, and Ethiopian kales. To ensure year-round cultivation, he utilizes modern farming techniques such as drip and overhead irrigation systems, guaranteeing a steady supply of fresh produce for his customers.
His dedication and strategic farming practices have paid off. As demand for his produce grew, Christopher leased an additional 17.5 acres to expand his operations. This expansion significantly boosted his earnings, with the farm now generating up to 30,000 Kenyan shillings on a good day.
In addition to vegetable farming, Christopher has diversified his income by keeping livestock. He manages a herd of 26 cows, predominantly Friesian and Jersey breeds, with 12 of them actively producing milk. This generates 250 liters of milk daily, which he sells locally for up to 25,000 Kenyan shillings per day. Furthermore, he maintains a flock of 600 chickens, producing 14 trays of eggs daily, further supplementing his income.
Christopher’s journey to success has been a team effort, with his wife, Maureen Achieng’, playing a vital role in the farm’s operations. As an animal health technician, Maureen ensures the health and productivity of their livestock, which is crucial to the farm’s overall success. Together, they have built a thriving agricultural business that employs six permanent staff members and hires casual workers as needed.
Christopher Angote’s story is a testament to the potential of agriculture as a path to prosperity. By combining hard work, innovation, and teamwork, he has turned his passion for farming into a thriving enterprise, inspiring others to explore the opportunities within the agricultural sector.
