Agritech company Afrimash has launched a USSD solution that enables farmers to verify the authenticity of day-old chicks before making a purchase, using just a basic mobile phone, in a move poised to revolutionize Nigeria’s poultry industry.
The new service was developed with support from global non-profit organization ‘Acumen’. It offers a practical and accessible tool for thousands of poultry farmers, especially those in rural areas, who have suffered for years from the circulation of adulterated and poor-quality chicks.
The platform gives farmers the power to confirm that their chicks are sourced from certified hatcheries, potentially saving them from devastating financial losses caused by fake or sick birds.
CEO of Afrimash, Ayoade Oyedotun, described the launch as a breakthrough moment for the agricultural sector.
“Poultry farmers have endured enough losses due to counterfeit and substandard chicks. This USSD platform gives them control, confidence, and access to quality, all from the comfort of their phones,” he said.
He added that, “in addition to verification, the platform allows users to place orders for high-quality chicks, track their purchases, compare prices, and access vaccination guides. Afrimash is also driving awareness through its newly launched Farmer Ambassador Program, encouraging individuals and agri-enthusiasts to spread the word about the USSD platform in their communities.”
Oyedotun also noted that, the innovation is part of Afrimash’s broader mission to digitise access to farm inputs and provide farmers with tools that enhance productivity, saying, the company is also using mobile channels to deliver agriculture consultancy services and offers monthly webinars on poultry management and best practices.
According to him, beyond verification, the USSD platform enables farmers to order premium chicks, with purchases qualifying for free nationwide shipping to designated pick-up centers.
“Afrimash has partnered with 80 pick-up centers across Nigeria, 35 of which are directly managed by the company. While collection at these centers is free, farmers who prefer added convenience can opt for home delivery services,” he said.
He disclosed that, with this initiative, Afrimash is not just selling chicks, it is restoring trust, improving access, and reshaping the future of poultry farming in Nigeria.
With this innovative initiative, Afrimash is setting a new standard for transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s poultry sector, helping farmers protect their investments and boost productivity.