Across Kenya, livestock farmers are navigating a growing strain. Animal feed production currently meets only about 40% of demand, leaving a 60% deficit equivalent to roughly 33 million tonnes of dry matter. As the poultry, dairy, and pig sectors expand to meet rising urban demand for protein, the pressure is being felt on farms in very real ways. Feed is not always available when it is needed, quality is often inconsistent, and prices shift unpredictably, challenges that are further compounded by prolonged droughts and climate pressures. For many smallholder farmers, the struggle goes beyond cost. It is about securing reliable, quality feed to keep their animals productive and their livelihoods stable.
That reality is what inspired the Mpeketoni Mega Women Organisation, a community-based organization made up of 30 women in Mpeketoni, Lamu County, to take action. Drawing from their own experiences as farmers, they began producing animal feeds for poultry, a practical response to a challenge they understood firsthand. To bring their idea to life, the group needed essential equipment, including a grinder, pelletizer, moisture meter, scale, and mixer. However, the cost of acquiring these machines was beyond their reach, and they also had limited experience in operating them. Through its Agribiz programme, the Kenya Climate Innovation Center stepped in to provide financial support for the equipment and training on how to use it. With these resources and skills in place, the women were able to begin their journey into animal feed production.
Initially, members tested the feeds on poultry kept at their homes. The chickens showed improved growth rates, which built confidence in the product and encouraged the group to move into mass production, branding, and sales.
“We employed two people to support production and began advertising our feeds. As the community became aware of what we do, the business picked up. Once farmers tried our feeds, they saw the quality for themselves, and they kept coming back while also spreading the word. In a week, we would make at least KSh 50,000 in sales. That is how our business has grown,” said Lucy Njeri Kimani, Chairperson of the Mpeketoni Mega Women Organisation.
They have diversified their feed production and now produce not only poultry feeds, but also feeds for dairy cattle and goats. Their chicken feed line has also expanded into layers and growers feeds, whereas before they only produced starter feeds.
“I would like to thank KCIC for bringing the Agribiz programme to us. The machines and the training have been a game changer and have positively changed our lives,” added Mary Kiti, a member of the CBO.
With the income generated from feed sales, the CBO was able to invest in an egg incubator to further grow their poultry business, as well as an edible oil processing machine. They have since expanded into coconut, sesame, and sunflower oil production, broadening their enterprise beyond animal feeds.
“We have plans to expand our market outside Lamu County to meet the growing demand for animal feeds, chicken eggs, and edible oils. Agribiz has opened our eyes to new opportunities, and people now know our brand. We will continue to move forward,” concluded Lucy Njeri, Chairperson of the Mpeketoni Mega Women Organisation.