“You need to be passionate about farming. Have a plan, take risks and be resilient. It is, however, a very rewarding venture,” says Kisumeo Organics founder, Robin. Kisumeo Organics is an integrated organic farm specializing in the breeding of rabbits, poultry farming, crawfish farming and creating sustainable food systems.
Kisumeo also grows herbs and spices as well as exotic vegetables such as bok choi, which is a superfood, containing over 70 antioxidant substances and is also a good source of Omega-3, fiber, calcium and folate. Chinese cabbage and purple cabbage are also grown on the farm. “Kisumeo Organics was birthed out of a need to cut costs on food for my events business. I needed to get fresh produce and that is how I got into farming. We’ve ended up being a full-fledged farm rearing a variety of animals and growing different crops. Crawfish is one of our main products and we are doing well so far.”
Kisumeo breeds crawfish on their farm in Machakos. These are freshwater crustaceans resembling small lobsters. Crawfish are high in vitamins A, B6 and B12 and are a good source of calcium, phosphorus and iron. They are low in fat and calories, high in protein and minerals and are an excellent option for anyone who is concerned about cholesterol, fat or calories. Crawfish powder is also great as a seasoning in soups. Robin holds crawfish parties in the farm for customer sensitization. They supply fish to the local market, with the Nigerians and Chinese in Kenya being one of their major clients.
How has the journey been so far? “It’s been a rewarding journey. I have worked so hard and I am grateful, that I am here. Just like with every other business, you need to have a plan, take risks and have resilience. Don’t get into farming just for the money, be passionate about it.”
Robin advises that is it also important to network. “ Interact with other people in your field. That way you grow and learn a lot as well.” Besides farming, he runs a real estate and land company.
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