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Kidan's story

Chickens provide food security and a source of income for Kidan Chickens provide food security and a source of income for Kidan

Eking out a living in Ethiopia’s remote and rugged Tigray region is tough for any farming family. But for elderly widows like 60-year-old Kidan, simply growing enough to survive is a real struggle. However rearing chickens can offer these women, many of whom will soon be too frail to farm their land, a way to earn a good living during their later years.

Relying on the help of others

Despite her age, Kidan worked hard on her farmland, but was still unable to earn an income from her crops.

"I only used the harvest to feed myself; I could not grow enough to sell as well. So, I weeded my neighbours land for some extra money."

Unsure of how she could continue to support herself in the future, Kidan was eager to become involved in Farm Africa's chicken rearing project. At training sessions run by our staff Kidan learnt all about rearing chickens and how to keep her birds healthy.

Training that transforms a life

Kidan received 15 chickens from Farm Africa, together with enough chicken feed for the first few months. A trained expert visits regularly, and he helps her make sure that her birds are in good health. Kidan expects them to start producing eggs very soon – some of which she can sell, and others she will allow her hens to brood and hatch so that she can grow her flock.

Over time as her flock grows, Kidan will be able to earn more and enjoy a better quality of life. Additional income will mean that she can buy enough food, and medicines when she is sick. She’s already thinking of the future and what she would like to achieve.

“When I earn money, I hope to buy sheep and goats.”

By giving a gift of £80 you can help give another woman everything she needs to set up her own chicken business

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