Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

JISTAWI POULTRY is a social enterprise dedicated to addressing food insecurity and improving the livelihoods of smallholder poultry farmers in Kenya through sustainable farming practices, personalized training, and innovative feed solutions.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

JISTAWI POULTRY is a comprehensive poultry farming initiative aimed at tackling food insecurity and enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder poultry farmers in Kenya. By integrating sustainable farming practices and innovative feed solutions such as Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) feed, we provide personalized training and resources to farmers. Our approach includes establishing learning and demonstration farms to showcase best poultry practices, conducting community outreach to raise awareness, and leveraging social media to share our journey. We empower farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to boost their productivity, achieve better market access, and improve their incomes. With a focus on creating a lasting impact, JISTAWI POULTRY envisions a thriving agricultural community where sustainable practices lead to food security and economic prosperity for all. Through strategic partnerships, we are building Kenya's first inclusive Kienyeji & Dual-Purpose Poultry value chain.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

Poultry farming is crucial for food security in Kenya, yet farmers face significant challenges. The global protein shortage, predicted to be 60 million tonnes by 2030, exacerbates the problem. Kenya's poultry farmers struggle with the high cost and poor quality of poultry feed, which accounts for up to 70% of production costs. Additionally, smallholder farmers lack access to training and resources, leading to inefficient practices. In Kenya, egg availability is alarmingly low, with only one egg per person per month, and nearly 2000 children under 5 years get malnourished daily, mostly in rural areas. Our goal is to empower smallholder poultry farmers, making eggs affordable and accessible for all. By using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae as a sustainable feed alternative, we reduce production costs and environmental impact. Our initiative offers comprehensive training and support, helping farmers adopt better practices, increase yields, and improve livelihoods.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Improved Livelihoods: JISTAWI POULTRY enhances the livelihoods of smallholder poultry farmers by providing personalized training and resources, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to increase productivity, profitability, and market access. Sustainable Farming Practices: We promote sustainable farming practices through innovative feed solutions like Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) feed and optimal nutrition guidance. This not only improves poultry health and growth but also reduces reliance on traditional, less sustainable feed sources. Community Impact and Food Security: By establishing learning and demonstration farms, conducting community outreach, and leveraging social media, we raise awareness and educate farmers on best practices. This leads to increased food security, economic prosperity, and a thriving agricultural community in Kenya.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our project aims to serve smallholder poultry farmers in rural and peri-urban areas of Kenya, focusing on youth and women. These farmers often struggle with high feed costs and poor farm management practices, which limit their productivity and income. By providing affordable, high-quality, and sustainable poultry feed made from Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, we empower these farmers to increase their yields and improve their livelihoods. Our training and support initiatives are designed to enhance their skills and knowledge, enabling them to adopt better farming practices and become successful poultry entrepreneurs. Ultimately, our project benefits the farmers, their families, and their communities by promoting food security, economic development, and sustainable agricultural practices.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2022-06-20

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Gilbert Keen Arigi (Founder & CEO): With a background in economics, sociology, and software development, Gilbert brings a multifaceted perspective crucial for strategic decision-making. His entrepreneurial experience and technical proficiency enable effective leadership and operational excellence. Zindzi Damianna Wekesa (Co-founder & Head of Nutrition): Zindzi's expertise in nutrition and dietetics ensures that our products meet high standards, enhancing consumer trust. Her innovative mindset optimizes the nutritional content of our poultry feed, aligning with evolving preferences. Chevai Kakai (Head of Training & Community Engagement): Chevai's agricultural knowledge and experience in agribusiness and organic farming provide invaluable insights into sustainable practices. His community engagement skills foster strong relationships with farmers, driving market penetration. Ann Congo(Head of Finance)-A BCom, CPA, FMVA® and leads the Finance department. With past roles in Impact DeV

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

https://sites.google.com/view/jistawi-poultry

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Agriculture

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1 of No Poverty by empowering smallholder poultry farmers, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas of Kenya. Through our initiatives, we provide training, resources, and support to these farmers, enabling them to increase their productivity and earn more income from poultry farming. By equipping farmers with innovative solutions like Black Soldier Fly larvae as affordable and sustainable feed alternatives, we reduce their production costs, thereby increasing their profit margins. This uplifts farmers out of poverty by improving their economic conditions and enhancing their livelihoods. Additionally, our focus on empowering rural women, who often bear the brunt of poverty, further contributes to SDG 1 by increasing their household income, decision-making power, and access to nutritious food, ultimately helping to break the cycle of poverty for generations to come.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY directly contributes to SDG 2 of Zero Hunger by enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture in Kenya. By providing smallholder poultry farmers with affordable and nutritious feed options, such as Black Soldier Fly larvae, we help them improve the health and productivity of their poultry. This results in increased production of eggs and meat, thus boosting food availability and access for communities. Moreover, our focus on sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly feed ingredients and ethical production, promotes environmentally responsible agriculture, ensuring long-term food security. Additionally, by empowering farmers, especially women in rural areas, to increase their poultry yields and diversify their income sources, we contribute to improving nutrition and reducing hunger at the household level. We foster resilient food systems, enhancing agricultural productivity, and ensuring nutritious food for all.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY significantly contributes to SDG 3 of Good Health and Well-being by promoting the production and consumption of nutritious food through sustainable poultry farming practices. By providing smallholder poultry farmers with high-quality feed alternatives, we enhance the health and well-being of both poultry and consumers. Our nutritious feed options, such as Black Soldier Fly larvae, ensure that poultry receive essential nutrients, resulting in the production of healthier eggs and meat. This, in turn, improves the nutritional intake of consumers, contributing to better health outcomes. By empowering farmers to adopt sustainable and ethical production practices, we mitigate health risks associated with conventional farming methods, such as the use of antibiotics and chemical additives. Additionally, our focus on supporting rural women in poultry rearing promotes gender equality and empowers women to make informed decisions about their families' health and well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 4 of Quality Education by providing comprehensive training and support to smallholder poultry farmers. Through our initiatives, farmers receive education on best practices in poultry farming, including feed management, disease prevention, and sustainable production methods. By equipping farmers with these skills and knowledge, we empower them to improve their productivity and livelihoods. Moreover, our focus on rural women in poultry rearing not only enhances their economic opportunities but also promotes gender equality by ensuring equitable access to education and resources. Additionally, by promoting lifelong learning opportunities through continuous training and capacity-building programs, we enable farmers to adapt to evolving agricultural practices and market demands. JISTAWI POULTRY's commitment to education and skill development fosters inclusive and equitable access to quality education for smallholder farmers.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY actively contributes to SDG 5 of Gender Equality by empowering women, particularly in rural areas, through poultry farming initiatives. Our focus on providing training, resources, and support to rural women in poultry rearing not only enhances their economic opportunities but also promotes gender equality by enabling them to actively participate in decision-making processes within their households and communities. By equipping women with the skills and knowledge to engage in poultry farming, we challenge traditional gender roles and empower them to become financially independent entrepreneurs. Moreover, our initiatives foster a supportive environment for women to network, share experiences, and access markets, further enhancing their social and economic empowerment. JISTAWI POULTRY's commitment to gender equality creates opportunities for women and girls to thrive, contribute to their communities, and achieve their full potential.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 6 of Clean Water and Sanitation by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that reduce water usage and environmental pollution. Traditional poultry farming methods often involve water-intensive processes and generate significant waste, leading to water contamination and sanitation issues. However, our initiatives focus on innovative solutions, such as using Black Soldier Fly larvae as feed, which requires minimal water compared to traditional feed production methods. By encouraging the adoption of these sustainable practices, we help conserve water resources and mitigate pollution, thereby promoting clean water availability and sanitation for communities. Additionally, our emphasis on eco-friendly feed ingredients and ethical production practices further minimizes environmental impact, ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

While JISTAWI POULTRY's primary focus is on poultry farming and related initiatives, our contributions to SDG 7 of Affordable and Clean Energy are indirect but significant. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, such as using Black Soldier Fly larvae as feed, we indirectly reduce the energy consumption associated with traditional feed production methods. Additionally, our emphasis on eco-friendly feed ingredients and ethical production practices aligns with the broader goal of promoting renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Moreover, our initiatives empower smallholder farmers to improve their livelihoods, which can lead to increased access to affordable and clean energy solutions at the household level.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 8 of Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating opportunities for smallholder poultry farmers to engage in productive and sustainable employment. Through our initiatives, farmers receive training, resources, and support to enhance their poultry farming practices, leading to increased productivity and income generation. By empowering farmers to become successful poultry entrepreneurs, we promote sustained economic growth at the grassroots level. Additionally, our focus on providing affordable and nutritious feed alternatives, such as Black Soldier Fly larvae, helps reduce production costs for farmers, thereby improving their profit margins and ensuring decent work opportunities. Moreover, by prioritizing ethical production practices and environmental sustainability, we foster inclusive economic growth that benefits both farmers and their communities.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 9 of Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by fostering innovation in the agricultural sector and promoting sustainable practices in poultry farming. Through our initiatives, we introduce innovative solutions like using Black Soldier Fly larvae as alternative feed, which not only reduces production costs but also minimizes environmental impact. By promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, we empower smallholder poultry farmers with the tools, resources, and knowledge needed to improve their productivity and livelihoods. Additionally, our focus on building resilient infrastructure for poultry farming, such as providing turnkey solutions for Black Soldier Fly breeding and rearing, enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of agricultural operations. By prioritizing innovation and technological advancements in poultry farming, we contribute to the overall goal of fostering innovation and building resilient infrastructure in agriculture.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 10 of Reduced Inequalities by promoting economic empowerment and social inclusion among smallholder poultry farmers, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. By providing training, resources, and support, we enable farmers, including women, to improve their productivity and income from poultry farming, thus reducing economic disparities within communities. Additionally, our initiatives prioritize the needs of marginalized groups, such as rural women, by empowering them with the skills and opportunities needed to participate in poultry farming and decision-making processes. Moreover, by promoting sustainable agriculture and ethical production practices, we ensure that the benefits of poultry farming are shared equitably among all stakeholders.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 11 of Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting sustainable agriculture practices that benefit both rural and peri-urban areas. By empowering smallholder poultry farmers with resources, training, and support, we enhance the sustainability of poultry farming practices in these communities. Through initiatives like using Black Soldier Fly larvae as feed, we reduce environmental impact and promote resource efficiency, contributing to the resilience and sustainability of agricultural systems. Additionally, by fostering economic opportunities in rural areas, we help alleviate urban migration pressures, thereby promoting balanced and sustainable development between cities and rural communities. Moreover, our focus on ethical production practices and environmental stewardship ensures that poultry farming contributes to creating inclusive, safe, and resilient communities where both human and environmental well-being are prioritized.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 12 of Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting sustainable and circular practices in poultry farming. Through initiatives like utilizing Black Soldier Fly larvae as feed, we reduce waste by transforming organic waste into valuable protein sources. By encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly feed ingredients and ethical production practices, we minimize environmental impact and promote resource efficiency throughout the poultry value chain. Moreover, by providing training and support to smallholder farmers on sustainable farming techniques, we promote responsible consumption and production patterns by ensuring that agricultural activities are conducted in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 13 of Climate Action by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience. Through initiatives like utilizing Black Soldier Fly larvae as feed, we reduce the environmental footprint of poultry farming by minimizing the use of resource-intensive conventional feed ingredients. By advocating for eco-friendly feed ingredients and ethical production practices, we contribute to reducing emissions associated with agricultural activities. Additionally, our focus on sustainable land management practices, such as free-range poultry farming and pasture-raised chickens, promotes carbon sequestration and enhances ecosystem resilience, thereby mitigating the impacts of climate change. Moreover, by providing training and support to smallholder farmers on climate-smart farming techniques, we empower them to adapt to changing climate conditions and contribute to climate resilience at the local level.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Jistawi Poultry contributes to SDG 14 of Life Below Water by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that minimize environmental impact on marine ecosystems. Traditional poultry farming often involves the use of fishmeal in feed, which contributes to overfishing and depletion of marine resources. By utilizing Black Soldier Fly larvae as an alternative protein source, we significantly reduce the demand for fishmeal, thus helping to conserve marine biodiversity. Additionally, our focus on organic waste recycling reduces runoff and pollution that can harm aquatic environments. Through these sustainable practices, we support the health of oceans, seas, and marine resources, ensuring they remain viable for future generations. Ultimately, our commitment to innovative and eco-friendly farming methods helps protect life below water while contributing to sustainable development.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 15 of Life on Land by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that mitigate environmental degradation and preserve terrestrial ecosystems. Through our initiatives, we advocate for the use of eco-friendly feed ingredients and ethical production practices, reducing the environmental impact of poultry farming. By utilizing Black Soldier Fly larvae as feed, we minimize reliance on traditional feed production methods that often contribute to deforestation and habitat destruction. Additionally, our emphasis on sustainable land management practices, such as free-range poultry farming and pasture-raised chickens, promotes biodiversity conservation and soil health. Moreover, by providing training and support to smallholder farmers on sustainable farming techniques, we empower them to become stewards of the land, fostering a harmonious relationship between agricultural production and the environment.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 16 of Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by promoting economic empowerment and social inclusion among marginalized communities, particularly in rural areas. By empowering smallholder poultry farmers, including women, with the resources and skills needed to succeed in poultry farming, we contribute to poverty reduction and social stability. Economic empowerment fosters resilience and reduces vulnerabilities to conflict, contributing to peaceful and inclusive societies. Additionally, our initiatives promote accountability and transparency in the agricultural sector by prioritizing ethical production practices and environmental sustainability. By building the capacity of smallholder farmers and supporting the development of strong community institutions, we contribute to the overall goal of building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at the grassroots level.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

JISTAWI POULTRY contributes to SDG 17 of Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaboration and partnerships across various sectors to promote sustainable development in poultry farming. We work closely with local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to implement our initiatives effectively. By leveraging these partnerships, we can access resources, expertise, and networks that are essential for scaling our impact and achieving our goals. Additionally, our partnerships facilitate knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, and innovation, driving continuous improvement in our approaches to sustainable poultry farming.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

6

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

6

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

4

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

6

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

6

05.08 Justification

Our project introduces Black Soldier Fly larvae as a novel feed alternative, extending beyond traditional feed options. This innovative approach addresses sustainability and economic challenges while responding to the unmet need for affordable and nutritious poultry feed. By empowering smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture, we create a unique solution that combines environmental stewardship with economic development, distinguishing our project from existing products and services in the industry.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

My main potential competitors are Homerange Poultry and Chicken Basket. What sets me apart from them is my innovative approach to poultry farming through the use of Black Soldier Fly larvae as a sustainable feed alternative. While Homerange Poultry specializes in the distribution of KARI Improved kienyeji chicken and Chicken Basket empowers women and youths through the chicken business, my focus on sustainable agriculture and innovative solutions distinguishes me. By offering a novel premixes feed option that addresses environmental and economic challenges, I provide a unique value proposition that aligns with the growing demand for sustainable farming practices. Additionally, my emphasis on economic empowerment and social inclusion through smallholder poultry farming further sets me apart as a leader in the industry. We also act as off-takers for these small holder poultry giving them market access. Our value chain includes all types of poultry and ornamental birds.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes, at Jistawi Poultry, we actively promote the role of female entrepreneurs within our community through our #InuaMamaNaBSF Initiative. We provide targeted insect farming training programs specifically designed for women, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in poultry farming and to be successful poultry entrepreneurs.