How I Used Duck Farming to Train Myself in School and Grew the Business Afterward
By Niyi Adebayo
I remember the first time I laid eyes on those little ducklings. Their fluffy yellow bodies waddling around, quacking away like they owned the place. It was a sunny afternoon in my village in Nigeria, and I was just a teenager trying to figure out life. Little did I know, those ducklings would not only help me through my school years but would also be the foundation of a business that transformed my life.
Growing up, we didn’t have much. My parents worked hard, but there were days when we had to stretch our meals and make do with what was left. I knew I wanted more for myself and my family. So, when my uncle suggested I try my hand at duck farming, I was all in. It felt like a crazy idea, but what did I have to lose? I was determined to make something of myself.
The Early Days: A Leap of Faith
I remember the day I brought home my first batch of ducklings. I felt like a proud father. With just a few thousand Naira saved up from odd jobs, I bought ten ducklings, a small feeding trough, and a basic shelter. My friends laughed at me, saying, “See this one! Which kind of farming you wan do?” But I brushed it off. I had a vision.
At first, it was tough. Duck farming isn’t just about feeding them and watching them grow. I had to learn about their care, feeding schedules, and health management. I spent hours reading online and talking to local farmers. Those late nights were a mix of excitement and fear. Would this really work? Would these ducks help me pay my school fees?
School and the Balance
As I juggled school and duck farming, I learned invaluable lessons. My classes became more than just theoretical knowledge; they turned into practical applications. For instance, when my biology teacher talked about animal husbandry, I could relate it directly to my ducks. I was not just a student anymore; I was a farmer, a business owner, and a learner all rolled into one.
Duck farming taught me discipline. I had to wake up early every day, feed them, clean their pen, and monitor their health before heading to school. This routine made me more responsible. I learned how to manage my time effectively; it wasn’t just about me anymore. I was supporting my family and investing in my future.
The Turning Point
After a year of hard work, my flock grew. I started selling eggs to my neighbors and local markets. The income wasn’t much at first, but it was a start. With each sale, I felt a rush of pride. I was contributing to my family! I saved every Naira, reinvesting it into the business. I bought more ducks, expanded their shelter, and even hired a friend to help me manage the farm while I was in school.
It was during this time that I stumbled upon the idea of value addition. Instead of just selling eggs, why not sell duck meat? I began researching the market, and what I found was surprising. Duck meat was quite popular in our community, but there weren’t many suppliers. This was my chance!
From School to Business
By the time I graduated high school, my duck farming venture had grown significantly. I was ready to take it to the next level. I found myself at a crossroads: continue my education or fully dive into the business. I chose the latter, fueled by the success I had already experienced and the dreams I had for the future.
I connected with agricultural organizations that offered training and mentorship. They helped me understand the business side of farming, from financial management to marketing strategies. I learned how to create a business plan, and slowly, I started seeing my dream take shape.
The Challenges
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. There were days when disease struck my farm. I lost a few ducks, and it felt like a punch to the gut. I had invested so much time and money. I remember crying, feeling defeated. But I knew I couldn’t give up. So, I reached out to more experienced farmers for advice. I learned about vaccinations and proper nutrition, and gradually, I regained control over my flock.
There were also financial challenges. Some months were better than others, and I had to learn to budget carefully. I remember one particular month when sales were low, and I had to make tough decisions. But each challenge taught me resilience, and I grew stronger, more determined to succeed.
Success and Beyond
Fast forward to today, and I’m proud to say that my duck farming business has grown beyond my wildest dreams. I’ve expanded my farm, and now I not only sell duck eggs and meat but also teach others how to start their own small-scale farms. It feels good to give back.
I’ve also made connections with local restaurants and markets, allowing me to reach a broader customer base. The joy of seeing my hard work pay off is indescribable. I often think back to that young boy who once had nothing but a dream and a few ducklings. It’s amazing how far I’ve come.
Reflection: The Journey Continues
As I sit here reflecting on my journey, I realize that duck farming was more than just a way to pay my school fees; it was a life lesson. It taught me about hard work, responsibility, and the importance of community. I’m grateful for every challenge and every success.
If you’re reading this and considering starting something of your own—whether it’s farming or any other venture—just know that it’s possible. You might face hurdles, but don’t let them deter you. With determination and a willingness to learn, you can turn your struggles into stepping stones.
What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!