Teresa, a visionary entrepreneur, transformed her passion for agriculture into a thriving business, creating employment opportunities for herself and 50 others in Kenya. Armed with a fashion and design diploma, Teresa embarked on her journey with a modest capital of 10,000 Kenyan shillings over five years ago.Partnering with her mother, Teresa began cultivating brachiaria grass on a two-acre farm in Nyeri, alongside an acre of super Napier pakchong 1 in Othaya.Embracing the advantages of grass farming due to its rapid growth, Teresa employs strategic methods, including direct planting or utilizing root enhancer fertilizer and manure for optimal growth. Super Napier, renowned for its high protein content, has become a staple in her business.The cultivation process yields impressive results, with the grass soaring up to 10 feet within 90 days of planting. Harvesting 3000 cuttings per acre, Teresa markets each cutting at 50 Kenyan shillings. However, her journey is not devoid of challenges, as she grapples with the adversities of drought and persistent pests.Undeterred, Teresa leverages social media platforms to market her produce while also disseminating knowledge about grass farming. Recognizing the soaring demand for fodder, Teresa has expanded her operations to encompass an additional 24 acres in Rumuruti.Beyond conventional marketing avenues, Teresa embraces digital platforms to impart her expertise, conducting educational sessions on fodder production via WhatsApp and Zoom meetings. Her vision extends beyond personal success; she aspires to empower fellow farmers with the skills and knowledge essential for sustainable agricultural practices.Teresa’s initiative not only addresses the pressing need for employment but also catalyzes a paradigm shift in Kenya’s agricultural landscape.By championing grass farming and fostering community education, Teresa exemplifies the transformative potential inherent in grassroots entrepreneurship.As her venture continues to flourish, Teresa emerges as a beacon of innovation and empowerment in Kenya’s agricultural sector.
