Upcoming breeder, Nyiva breaking the mold set for Six Nations Expo
Lucy Nyiva, Eko Farm is a pioneering livestock breeder breaking barriers in small ruminant agribusiness. By choosing goat and sheep breeding—a sector traditionally dominated by men—she combines traditional hard work with modern management to run a thriving, resilient commercial enterprise. The Livestock Site team visited Nyiva at farm.
Breaking the Mold
Q: Lucy, thank you for speaking with us. Goat and sheep breeding is widely viewed as a man’s domain. What inspired you to step into this space?
A: To be honest Henry, you have been a great inspiration to many of us.
Animals do not care who feeds them or checks their health; they respond to care and consistency. I wanted to prove that women can manage high-value livestock enterprises just as well, if not better.
Managing Eko Farm
Q: Large stock and breeding require heavy physical and technical work. How do you handle the daily operations at Eko Farm?
A: It is about strategy, not muscle. Understanding disease control, proper feeding, and precise breeding cycles matters more than physical strength.
Overcoming Challenges
Q: What was the biggest hurdle when you started out in the community?
A: In the beginning, suppliers and local markets looked twice. Once they saw the quality of my flock and how well I managed records, the respect followed naturally.
Advice for Aspiring Women Farmers
Q: What is your core message to other women who want to venture into livestock breeding or non-traditional agribusiness?
A: Do not let tradition dictate your potential. Agribusiness is a science and a business. If you treat it with discipline, the market will reward you. Start small and master the basics, keep accurate production record and finally Ignore the noise and focus on results
