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From 25 Chicks to Thriving Poultry: An Organic Agriculture Success Story

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“I didn’t set out to run a large poultry farm; my goal was simply to produce organic manure from chicken waste to support my crops.” As an expert in organic crop production and a committed member of the Association of Organic Agriculture Practitioners of Nigeria (NOAN), ensuring full control over my farm inputs was essential to consistently meet organic certification standards.

The journey began in June 2022, when Ade Oluwagbenro, the visionary behind Funade Integrated Farms, sourced 25 heritage chicks from the late Dr. Ige of Wura Organic. Dr. Ige encouraged her to “learn on the job,” reassuring her that everything she needed to succeed was already available—natural remedies like aloe vera, scent leaves, moringa, bitter leaves, pawpaw leaves, and seeds. With his guidance, Ade took her first big step into poultry multiplication, fertilizing the eggs and acquiring an incubator. Her flock grew, with the heritage chickens starting to lay eggs at just 20 weeks. Out of the original 25 birds, 12 were female, and these hens have since multiplied many times over.

Like any new venture, the early days were filled with challenges. Ade faced significant losses during the first year due to an overdose of herbal treatments, yet she refused to give up. Trusting in her faith and determined to learn from her mistakes, she refined her approach in the second year, and her persistence paid off.

Today, Funade Integrated Farms has sold over 200 male chickens and sustained a steady supply of eggs for nearly a year. With daily egg production close to 100 and expected to hit 500 soon, this once-small flock has grown into a flourishing operation. The farm now mills its own feed to ensure quality and consistency, reducing mortality rates and contributing to a sustainable future.

Ade’s journey is a testament to the power of organic agriculture and the possibilities that emerge when we trust the process, learn from our challenges, and commit to sustainable farming. From 25 heritage chicks to a nearly self-sustaining poultry farm, Funade Integrated Farms stands as an inspiring example of resilience, faith, and the beauty of organic growth.

Adeorike Oluwagbenro
Author: Adeorike Oluwagbenro

"Welcome to Funade Farm, where healthy living meets sustainable farming practices. We're passionate about cultivating a better tomorrow through our integrated farm, dedicated to zero waste systems and chemical-free growth. At Funade Farm, we prioritize nature's harmony, growing our produce without synthetic fertilizers or chemicals. Our free-range chickens roam freely, raised without antibiotics or vaccines, ensuring the most natural and nutritious products for our community. Join us in our journey towards a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle."

The Organic Agriculture Africa Blog features sustainable farming practices and organic solutions tailored for African farmers. It addresses unique challenges like soil health, crop protection, water conservation and much more with practical strategies.
 
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