Dreaming Big

Monday, April 15, 2019 6:50

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Human Wrongs Watch

A young chicken breeder in Gabon dreams big for Zero Hunger.

In Gabon, FAO supports agricultural and social protection programmes that enable rural farmers, like Alvina, to build their capacity, carry out more productive activities and improve their livelihoods. ©FAO/ Scarlin Inanga

“Today, with efficient and affordable animal feed manufacturing, which has helped to reduce production costs, I produce an average of 500 chickens every 8 weeks. I sold all of my first production on the local market because in Oyem, chicken is a very popular meat during family ceremonies and in the two months that followed, I raised even more chickens. It was unbelievable!” says Alvina enthusiastically.

The members of Alvina’s cooperative are active and have diversified their activities by producing vegetables and fruits to sell at the market. They use the organic material resulting from the breeding to fertilize these plants.

“Gradually, my business is growing and my products are more and more in demand. My ambition is to increase my production to 5 000 chickens within two years and to employ fellow young Gabonese!” says Alvina with a smile.

“Business has always been important to me, but I did not have the capital or the skills. And, beyond that, I lacked the confidence to get started. During the training, we were encouraged to become entrepreneurs and given the means to do so,” explains Alvina.

Despite some initial difficulties, such as the inconsistent supply of low-cost raw materials, and the strong competition from imported poultry products, the young businesswomen is living her dream and remains optimistic about the evolution of her business. Just outside of her farm, she has started the very first chicken market in Oyem.

Improving people’s livelihoods through capacity building is essential for reducing poverty and hunger, especially in rural areas. In Gabon, FAO supports agricultural social protection programmes that enable rural farmers to build their capacity to manage risks, carry out more productive activities and create a future with #ZeroHunger.