31-year-old Jared Omondi Odongo from Arujo Ward, Homa Bay County, represents the spirit of a true agri-prenuers. In 2021, lack of money forced him to pause his college studies in Nairobi and return to Homa Bay. But he didn’t let circumstances dictate his future.
Today, he proudly oversees his thriving poultry farm in Homa Bay Town, producing and supplying at least 200 eggs to local incubators daily. “I am happy about the income from the business. I have big dreams of growing it further.” he says.
Thanks to trainings facilitated by Practical Action in Kenya, Jared has reduced production costs and increased profits by adopting regenerative and circular methods.
“I switched from costly commercial feeds and started formulating nutritious and affordable feed that includes fish waste sourced from the shores of Lake Victoria. I supplement the feed with Azolla, a fast-growing, protein-rich plant I grow on the farm.” he says. 
Apart from eggs, Jared makes money selling Azola to other farmers, with one kilo going for Kshs 1000 (US$8). As he continues to soar higher to achieve his goals, Jared’s story remains a motivation to other aspiring farmers in Homa Bay County, proving that with passion and resilience, dreams can indeed become a reality.
Jared is part of the Resilient Agriculture that Works for Young People (RAY) initiative by Mastercard Foundation in partnership with Practical Action in Kenya. The project aims to facilitate thriving livelihoods for 100,000 young people through agribusiness. Under the initiative, the agripreneur is mentoring fourteen young people to pursue opportunities in agribusiness, including ten women.
