Leaving a stable job to pursue entrepreneurship is never an easy decision. The uncertainty, coupled with the challenges of starting a business from scratch, can be daunting. But for Georgina Chepkoech Rono, it was a risk worth taking.
A graduate of Egerton University, Georgina had been earning a monthly salary of KSh 50,000 in an office job. Yet, her true passion lay in farming. In 2016, just a year after completing her studies in Animal Health and Production, she resigned to focus entirely on dairy farming in Ginah, Nakuru County.
She began with over ten Friesian cows, producing about 200 liters of milk daily, which translated to an average monthly income of KSh 150,000. Her first investment was a dairy cow worth KSh 180,000, followed by three calves purchased for the same amount in total. As the herd grew, each cow produced around 20 liters of milk per day, which she supplied to hotels in Nakuru and sold directly to locals through a milk ATM.
“On average, I make over KSh 8,000 a day. After deducting labor, water, and feed expenses, my monthly profit exceeds KSh 40,000—and in good months, I take home up to KSh 150,000,” Georgina says.
To reduce the high cost of commercial feeds, Georgina embraced innovative, cost-effective farming techniques. She produces her own TMR (Total Mixed Ration) on the farm, growing Boma Rhodes grass and other protein concentrates. Any surplus is sold to neighboring farmers.
While Nakuru’s climate is generally favorable, cold spells sometimes affect milk production. Here, Georgina’s academic background comes in handy—she applies her animal health knowledge to maintain herd productivity.
Her farm currently employs four workers, with plans to expand and mechanize operations in the near future. She works closely with veterinary officers, attends trade fairs, and participates in farmers’ field days to keep up with industry trends.
Looking back, Georgina says resigning from her job was one of the boldest and best decisions she has ever made.
“Quitting a job to start your own business requires courage and determination. Many people fear taking that leap, even after decades in employment,” she reflects.
Today, Georgina’s story stands as proof that with passion, strategic planning, and hard work, farming can be just as lucrative—if not more—than a well-paying office job.
