Simon Ng'ang'a Wamsey, a former matatu driver with 25 years of experience, made a significant career change in 2016. Following the death of his daughter, who had given birth to twins in 2013, Wamsey left his job to care for his grandchildren. His decision to venture into goat farming was inspired by a visit to a friend in Nyeri County, who was keeping goats for their milk. Impressed by the friend's farming project, Wamsey decided to start his own.
Wamsey's initial investment in the goat farming project was Sh40,000, which he used to purchase two pregnant Toggenburg goats from Kenana Farm in Njoro. He also used the funds to construct a shelter for the goats. Just three months after the purchase, the goats gave birth to twins, and Wamsey's milk production needs were met. The surplus milk was sold to local buyers at Sh150 per litre, generating enough income to supplement the feed for his flock.
Wamsey's goat farm has grown significantly since its inception. He currently has over 100 goats of the German Alpine and Toggenburg breeds. He milks around 40 goats daily, collecting at least 80 litres of milk, which he sells at the local market for Sh250 per litre. The sales have enabled him to pay his grandchildren's school fees, purchase an additional plot of land, and cover other personal expenses.
The demand for goat's milk has increased, and Wamsey is struggling to meet the demand from his customers. He plans to expand his flock to over 200 goats by next year, which will enable him to save up for his grandchildren's transition to Grade 10 in 2028. Wamsey's success in goat farming has been attributed to his ability to provide high-quality feed and care for his animals.
Wamsey's farm is managed with the help of a farmhand, and he ensures that his goats receive a balanced diet. He conserves dry maize stalks during harvest, buys protein-rich hay and lucerne, and provides mineral lick blocks to promote bodily functions and nutrient absorption. He also deworms the young goats one month after birth and marks their ears for identification purposes.
Nutritionists have highlighted the benefits of goat's milk, which provides high-quality protein, essential minerals, and fat. It also aids digestion, strengthens bones and the heart, and offers high levels of potassium and magnesium. Wamsey continues to improve his skills by visiting agricultural shows, the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), and liaising with local livestock officers.
Wamsey's success in goat farming has inspired other farmers to venture into the industry. He advises farmers to source feed and water, construct a suitable pen, and keep records to prevent inbreeding. According to Antony Kariuki, a former Livestock Officer, a successful dairy farmer should have enough feed for the goats to last at least one year and consider factors such as climate conditions and breed selection.
Key points
- A former matatu driver has found success in goat farming, generating enough income to care for his grandchildren and expand his business.
- The demand for goat's milk has increased, and farmers are encouraged to venture into the industry to meet the demand.
- Goat farming requires proper care, feed, and record-keeping to prevent inbreeding and ensure the health and productivity of the animals.
