In December 2022, Imfuyo embarked on a transformative journey with the Muthegi community, bringing together individuals who had not yet realized their agricultural potential. Through collaborative discussions, we identified dairy goats as a viable pathway for sustainable growth. Over the next six months, we worked closely with these newly formed farmers, providing the necessary resources and training to ensure their success.
Context and Achievements
Before the Project:
When we began, the farmers faced numerous challenges:
- Lack of Dairy Goats: Most farmers did not own dairy goats, which limited their ability to produce milk and earn income.
- Limited Knowledge and Resources: They had little understanding of dairy farming practices and lacked access to the necessary resources.
- Poor Health Among Livestock: Some farmers had goats, but many were unhealthy, resulting in low productivity.
Current Status and Achievements:
As we reflect on the progress made, the following key milestones illustrate the impact of our initiatives:
- Number of Farmers:
- Before the Project: There was no formal group; the farmers were individuals without a collective identity.
- Current Status: 32 farmers
- Achievement: Imfuyo facilitated the creation of a legal farmer group, fostering collaboration and mutual support.
2. Daily Milk Production:
- Before the Project: Minimal milk production was observed, primarily due to a lack of resources and poor goat health.
- Current Status: 33 liters total per day
- Achievement: Farmers are now producing a total of 33 liters per day, a significant increase attributed to improved practices and the introduction of healthy dairy goats.
3. Milk for Sale:
- Before the Project: Farmers struggled to produce and sell milk due to low production and inadequate storage facilities.
- Current Status: 19 liters/day
- Achievement: Enhanced capabilities, along with the donation of a 100-liter milk chilling freezer, have enabled farmers to sell 19 liters daily, generating a consistent income stream.
4. Milk for Family Use:
- Before the Project: Families lacked access to nutritious milk, affecting their diets and overall health.
- Current Status: 14 liters/day for family consumption
- Achievement: Families now enjoy 14 liters of milk per day, significantly improving their nutrition and food security.
5. Goat Population:
- Before the Project: While some farmers owned goats, including a few dairy goats, their overall production was limited, resulting in little to no milk production due to health issues and lack of resources.
- Current Status: 110 goats
- Achievement: The herd has tripled due to new births and successful integration of dairy goats, thanks to the initial support from Imfuyo.
6. Goat Health:
- Before the Project: While some goats were healthy, many suffered from various ailments, leading to reduced productivity.
- Current Status: All goats are now healthy
- Achievement: Through effective veterinary care and education, farmers have improved the health of their goats, significantly enhancing overall productivity and well-being.
7. Financial Inclusion:
- Before the Project: Farmers had very limited access to financial services, hindering their growth.
- Current Status: Full access via the group model
- Achievement: Farmers can now access loans and financial services, empowering their economic growth.
8. Income Utilization:
- Before the Project: Families struggled to meet basic needs and lacked investment opportunities.
- Current Status: Supporting education, healthcare, and reinvestment
- Achievement: Increased income allows farmers to cover essential needs and reinvest in their farming operations, fostering overall community development.
Overcoming Challenges
The path to these achievements was not without its challenges. Initially, farmers faced low milk yields and health concerns among their goats. However, through dedicated training and support, we guided them in overcoming these obstacles. “We didn’t know where to start, but Imfuyo showed us the way,” reflects Mr. Simon Mwangi, a farmer, showcasing the newfound confidence within the group.
The success of the Muthegi Dairy Goat Project serves as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, education, and support.
In conclusion, Imfuyo’s impact on the Muthegi dairy goat farmers illustrates how targeted interventions can lead to significant improvements in livelihoods. As we look ahead, we remain committed to supporting these farmers on their journey toward sustainability and financial independence.
Join us in celebrating this success and supporting the Muthegi community! For further insights into our ongoing efforts, refer to the previous article: From Forgotten Fields to a Future Filled with Milk.