Farming in Kenya is often regarded as one of the easiest ways to make money. But not just any money—serious, life-changing wealth. Yet, despite the immense potential that agriculture holds, many people struggle to turn it into a profitable venture.
The truth is, anyone can become a farmer, but not everyone can make money from farming. Success in agriculture, just like in any other business, depends on strategy, knowledge, and persistence. One of the most lucrative yet underrated farming ventures in Kenya is chicken farming, particularly the rearing of indigenous (Kienyeji) chicken.
The Hidden Wealth in Chicken Farming
A select few farmers who have dedicated themselves to chicken rearing are reaping significant profits. However, many have abandoned the idea of rearing indigenous chicken, opting instead for exotic breeds. The main reason behind this shift is that Kienyeji chicken takes longer to mature compared to their foreign counterparts. Many farmers want quick returns, and as a result, they miss out on the long-term profitability of indigenous breeds.
But what if I told you there is a way to make millions from Kienyeji chicken farming without falling into the common pitfalls that many farmers encounter? The key lies in changing your approach. If you rear Kienyeji chickens the wrong way, you will struggle to make money. But with the right strategy, it can be a goldmine.
Related Content: Kenyans Ate Fried Chicken, Burger, And Pizza This Year Than Any Other Year
The Secret to Profitable Kienyeji Chicken Farming
One of the biggest mistakes that farmers make is rearing Kienyeji chickens for breeding purposes. Many people buy hens and roosters, hoping to hatch their own chicks and grow their flock. While this might seem like a cost-effective strategy, it is one of the slowest and least profitable ways to make money in chicken farming. Why? Because raising chicks from eggs to maturity is time-consuming, requires intensive care, and does not guarantee high returns.
The best way to make money is by purchasing two to three-week-old Kienyeji chicks from a reliable source. Ensure that you buy from a reputable farmer because many people sell mixed breeds that resemble Kienyeji but lack the resilience and benefits of true indigenous chicken. Once you have secured high-quality chicks, your work is simple: nurture them for two to three months, then sell them at a premium.
The Strategy for Continuous Supply and Maximum Profit
To ensure a constant flow of income, adopt a staggered buying approach. For instance, if you start with 50 chicks, do not wait until you have sold them all before restocking. Instead, buy another batch of 50 chicks one month after the first purchase. This cycle ensures that you always have chickens at different stages of maturity, allowing for a continuous supply to the market.
Timing is everything. During festive seasons such as Christmas, New Year, and Easter, the demand for Kienyeji chicken skyrockets, and so do the prices. If you plan your sales well, you can make a fortune during these peak seasons.
Why Kienyeji Chicken is the Best Choice
One of the main advantages of Kienyeji chicken over exotic breeds is their resilience. Unlike broilers or layers, which require strict feeding and disease management, Kienyeji chickens have a natural resistance to many common poultry diseases. This reduces your risk of massive losses due to disease outbreaks.
That said, you must still adhere to basic health practices, including vaccination and deworming. Vaccinating your chicks will cost you around 2 to 3 shillings per chick—an affordable investment compared to the cost of losing your flock to preventable diseases.
Feeding and Cost Management
Feeding is one of the biggest expenses in poultry farming, but with Kienyeji chicken, this cost is significantly lower. Unlike exotic breeds that depend entirely on commercial feeds, Kienyeji chickens can eat a variety of locally available foods. They thrive on kitchen leftovers such as ugali, rice, vegetables, and grains. However, for faster growth and better productivity, supplementing with formulated feeds is advisable. The key is to strike a balance—reduce feeding costs by using readily available food while ensuring the birds get the necessary nutrients for growth.
Market Demand: A Ready and Lucrative Opportunity
One of the best things about Kienyeji chicken farming is that you do not have to struggle to find a market. There is a growing demand for indigenous chicken, particularly from restaurants, hotels, and individual consumers who prefer the rich taste and nutritional benefits of Kienyeji over broilers. During festive seasons, the demand is so high that farmers struggle to meet orders. This creates an opportunity for farmers who have strategically timed their production cycles to maximize profits.
Related Content: Uganda Accused Of Dumping Cheap Chicken Into Kenyan Market
