This archive report was first published on 7 August 2020.
Setting Up a Viable Beef Farm ¶
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt lives, many people are turning to alternative sources of income. Beef farming has emerged as a viable option, with individuals seeking to establish a sustainable and profitable business.
Dr. Joseph Mugachia, a veterinary surgeon, has received numerous inquiries about beef farming. In this article, he shares his expertise on setting up a viable beef farm, drawing from his experiences with four individuals from different parts of the country.
One of the key considerations for anyone looking to venture into beef farming is the availability of resources. Dr. Mugachia emphasizes the importance of having sufficient land, water, and feed for the animals. He notes that individuals with access to a large family farm, like Sue from Makueni, can consider commercially utilizing the land for beef farming.
However, Dr. Mugachia also highlights the challenges associated with beef farming, particularly the need for animal identification and traceability. He advises individuals to keep accurate records of animal purchases, treatments, and weight gain, as well as to tag animals with unique farm numbering.
For those with limited resources, Dr. Mugachia suggests focusing on beef fattening, which can be done on a smaller scale. He recommends leasing land for hay and silage production and growing maize to supplement feeds. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of using a web-based livestock identification and traceability system to easily share cattle data with buyers.
Ultimately, Dr. Mugachia stresses the need for individuals to carefully investigate the intricacies of beef farming and sale of animals before embarking on this venture. By doing so, they can establish a viable and profitable beef farm that meets the demands of the market.
