Christopher Angote, once an agriculture teacher, has transformed his life and financial prospects through his venture into vegetable farming. Located in Emuhaya, Vihiga County, his 7.5-acre farm boasts an impressive array of crops.
After realizing that his salary as a teacher couldn’t meet his needs and aspirations, Christopher decided to take a leap of faith and embrace agriculture as his new career.
Starting with a small plot inherited from his father, measuring about 0.4 acres, he quickly recognized the immense potential in farming.
Encouraged by his passion for agriculture, he made a bold move and invested in an additional 7.1 acres of land solely dedicated to vegetable production.
On his farm, Christopher cultivates a diverse range of crops, including cowpeas, black nightshade, slender leaf, spider plant, jute mallow, amaranth, onions, kales, and Ethiopian kales.
Leveraging drip and overhead irrigation systems, he ensures a year-round supply of these vegetables, delighting his customers with their freshness and quality.
Christopher’s hard work and dedication have been rewarded, as his farm has thrived beyond expectations. In fact, he recently leased an additional 17.5 acres of land to expand his vegetable farming operation further.
This expansion has not only increased his production capacity but has also boosted his income significantly. On a good day, his farm now earns him up to 30,000 Kenyan shillings, a remarkable achievement.
In addition to vegetable farming, Christopher keeps livestock on his farm, contributing to his overall success. His herd of 26 cows, mainly consisting of Friesian and Jersey breeds, provides him with a steady supply of milk.
With 12 cows being milked regularly, he produces an impressive 250 liters of milk daily, generating an additional income of up to 25,000 Kenyan shillings. Furthermore, his flock of 600 chickens produces 14 trays of eggs, adding to his revenue stream.
Christopher’s achievements wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of his wife, Maureen Achieng’, an animal health technician.
Together, they form a formidable team that manages the farm’s operations efficiently, ensuring the well-being of their livestock and the success of their agricultural business.
Their thriving farm has not only brought financial independence to Christopher and Maureen but has also created employment opportunities in the local community.
Currently, they employ six permanent staff members and hire additional casual workers as needed, contributing to the growth and development of their region.
