We train women in Ethiopia as poultry vaccinators to boost rural incomes, nutrition, and food security. Our model centers on women-led, grassroots solutions. Instead of relying on overstretched government vets, the community vaccinator approach brings care to people's doorsteps while creating jobs and building local pride. It's low-cost, high-impact, and deeply rooted in community ownership.
In rural Ethiopia, smallholder farmers especially women rely on poultry for food and income. But Newcastle disease (ND) frequently wipes out entire flocks, destroying livelihoods and deepening poverty. Most affected families have little to no access to veterinary services or disease prevention knowledge. Without affordable and reliable animal health care, rural communities struggle to break the cycle of food insecurity.
Kyeema trains smallholder farmers primarily women to become certified Community-Based Poultry Vaccinators. These women are equipped with knowledge and tools to protect chickens from Newcastle disease, improve poultry health, and support others in their communities. With training in chicken handling, vaccine delivery, and hygiene, they offer vital services that keep flocks alive and households thriving. As they earn income from their services, they also become respected leaders in animal health.
Each trained vaccinator can support hundreds of households, creating a ripple effect in improved nutrition, income generation, and community resilience. Over time, poultry flocks become stronger, child nutrition improves, and women gain greater agency and recognition. As more women are trained, we build a locally led system of animal health care that is sustainable, scalable, and empowering especially in underserved areas.
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