Why Livestock on a Crop Farm
Our soil needs organic matter, and building it takes time. Synthetic fertiliser is not part of our approach. The alternative: build soil structure slowly with manure. That’s why our first livestock purchase wasn’t about meat or milk — it was about what comes out the other end.
We bought 5 goats — 4 females and 1 male — all local mixed breeds suited to the Kilifi coast climate. They were sourced locally in January 2025.
Housed, Not Yet Home
The animals were initially hosted at a neighbouring facility while our own shelter was under construction. The structure — an elevated wooden shelter with a corrugated iron roof, raised floor for manure collection, and a ramp for access — was completed later in the year.
Manure as Soil Strategy
The accumulated manure is collected and spread across the planting areas. This is the most practical way to add organic matter. Over time, the soil structure should improve — better water retention, more microbial activity, and a growing foundation for the crops.
Just livestock manure. It’s slow, but it’s honest.
What We’re Learning
Keeping livestock in a coastal semi-arid environment comes with its own challenges. Water access matters for the animals too. Browse and feed availability changes with the season. Veterinary support in Magarini is limited. These are all realities we’re documenting as we go.