Richard Mibei, a dairy farmer from Ndabichonik village, Chepalungu Sub-County, Bomet county is a prove that agri-business is well-paying if correctly done.
The farmer, who is earning Sh500 000 monthly income, revealed he started dairy farming in 1982 with only two heifers.
However, his dream of becoming one of the biggest dairy farmers in the region was viable as he currently owns over 42 well-bred Friesian dairy cows.
“When I started with two heifers way back in 1982, I never looked back. Way back then, we knew nothing about the advances in agricultural technology, including Artificial Insemination,” he said.
“We used to pull out any bull from the village herds and that resulted in not only poorer breeds, but also there was the rampant spread of diseases and parasites, that was then, now I know better,” Mibei adds.
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The farmer revealed he adopted AI technology in 2000, sourcing the best semen from the United States of America, the Netherlands, and Israel.
“I do not regret the AI option I took because the results are stunning. Good breeds not only assure you of the highest production but also give you value for your money and the time you take in your investment,” he said.
According to him, for successful dairy farming, farmers not only need high-quality pedigrees but also good-quality feeds and clean water for their cows.
He cautioned farmers against feeding their cows only bulk feeds of maize stalks, grasses, and Napier grass, as this practice not only increases their susceptibility to diseases and parasite infestation but also lowers potential production.
“A well-fed cow is not only strong enough to resist diseases and parasites but also quick to conceive. Such a cow should be able to calf at least once each year,” he said.
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