Leaving a stable job to start a business is never an easy choice. The fear of the unknown, coupled with the challenges of establishing a new venture, can often lead to hesitation. However, this was the brave decision made by Georgina Chepkoech Rono.
A graduate of Egerton University, Georgina took the leap from a steady job where she earned Sh. 50,000 per month to pursue dairy farming in the Ginah area of Nakuru County. She invested in more than ten Friesian cows, which produced 200 liters of milk daily, generating an income of Sh. 150,000 each month.
“I began farming in 2015 after graduating, with a focus on Animal Health and Production,” she shared in a past interview. “Initially, I was employed, but by 2016, I decided to resign and fully dedicate myself to intensive farming. My passion for animal husbandry pushed me to make the leap.”
Her journey began with the purchase of a single dairy cow for Sh. 180,000. She later added three calves, also costing Sh. 180,000, and once they matured, they started producing milk.
“Each of my cows produces around 20 liters of milk a day,” she explained. “I supply milk to hotels in Nakuru town and also sell some to local residents through my milk ATM.”
On a good day, Georgina earns more than Sh. 8,000 in sales. After accounting for expenses like labor, water, and feed, her profit exceeds Sh. 4,000. During peak months, she reaches a net income of Sh. 150,000.
To combat the rising cost of commercial feed, Chepkoech has embraced innovation. She manufactures her own feeds, ensuring high quality. “I create my own Total Mixed Ration (TMR) on the farm, growing Boma Rhodes and other protein concentrates. If there’s any surplus, I sell it to my neighbors,” she said.
While the weather in Nakuru is generally favorable for farming, cold spells sometimes impact milk production. Chepkoech uses her expertise in animal health and production to address these challenges.
Currently, she employs four people on her farm and plans to expand by mechanizing her operations. “I collaborate closely with a veterinary officer to maintain optimal production, and I make sure to stay updated on the latest trends in dairy farming through online research and attending trade fairs and farmer field days,” she added.
Despite the success she’s experienced, Georgina admits that leaving her job to start her business was one of the boldest decisions of her life. “Starting your own business requires immense courage and determination. Many people fear retirement, even after their working years are over,” she said, reflecting on her own journey.
