Ayimbire Mary-Immaculate Winemaliya, CEO of Maliya Farms, has shared how she discovered the potential of guinea fowl rearing to avoid the pressure of seeking urban employment after completing her Senior High School (SHS) education two years ago.
Starting with just GH₵600, she has successfully built a thriving business in a remarkably short time.
Her journey came to light during a discussion following a documentary by Humul-Khrusum Tahiru, head of the gender desk at A1 Radio. The documentary highlighted how women in the Upper East Region are turning to guinea fowl farming as a sustainable source of income and job creation.
“I actually wanted to do something after my Senior High School to prevent myself from moving south to look for conventional jobs while furthering my education,” she explained.
“I looked around for what was available and discovered guinea fowl rearing as an opportunity.”
Within just five months, she generated GH₵10,000 in income, which she reinvested into her business to lay the foundation for Maliya Farms. Beyond her own success, Winemaliya has inspired others in her community. She revealed that four of her friends have joined the venture, with many more preparing to follow suit. “It’s a season of about five months, and within that period, I was able to make GH₵10,000, which I reinvested,” she said.
Self-Learning and Mentorship Fuel Success
Winemaliya credited much of her knowledge to self-teaching through online platforms like YouTube and various poultry farming resources. “I did most of my studies online. I watched YouTube videos and read about poultry and livestock farming in general,” she shared. She also acknowledged the guidance of her mentor, Mr. Issaka Mohammed, CEO of Upper Livestock Farms, who provided crucial support as she navigated the nuances of the farming industry.
She now mentors aspiring farmers, offering advice and insights on how to succeed in agriculture. “Sometimes, I guide them on what they can do to make money in the agricultural sector, and they decide which area works best for them,” she said.
Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
Despite her achievements, Winemaliya faced significant challenges, particularly gender bias in the male-dominated agricultural sector. She recounted instances where people doubted her abilities because of her gender and age. “Many people discouraged me, saying, ‘Men couldn’t succeed at this, so how can you, a young girl?’ They told me to try something else because this wouldn’t work.”
Undeterred, she used these experiences as motivation to succeed, proving that women can excel in agriculture despite societal stereotypes.
Advocating for Youth and Women in Agriculture
Winemaliya passionately advocates for youth and women to consider agriculture as a viable career path. She emphasizes the financial independence and self-sufficiency that farming can provide, whether in livestock or crop production.
“Everyone should just be a farmer. Whether it’s crops, livestock, or anything else in agriculture, just do it,” she encouraged. “Young people and women especially should embrace farming as a path to empowerment and economic stability.”
Ayimbire Mary-Immaculate Winemaliya’s inspiring journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of resilience, self-learning, and determination in creating sustainable livelihoods.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1Mhz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
