Black Chicken Meat in Naivasha

By Bernard Gitau

The ongoing debate between white and red meat as the superior source of protein has been shaken up by the emergence of a new contender: black meat, embodied in the Ayam Cemani chicken breed.

Hailing from Indonesia, this rare bird has found a new home in Kenya, thanks to farmer Joyce Kihara of Naivasha. Kihara, whose farm boasts a variety of ornamental birds alongside traditional livestock, has become known for her unique collection, with the Ayam Cemani taking center stage.

“Naivasha is renowned for its tourism, particularly the tranquil beauty of Lake Naivasha. In considering ventures to complement this, ornamental bird rearing stood out,” Kihara explained.

At Charis Farm, visitors are treated to a spectacle of avian diversity, from peacocks to ducks to the Ayam Cemani star attraction. With its striking black appearance, from feathers to bones to eggs, this chicken breed never fails to captivate guests.

“Our guests are always amazed by these birds. They often come expecting to see typical poultry, but we offer something far more unique, and the Ayam Cemani is always a highlight,” shared Kihara.

However, this exclusivity comes at a price. The Ayam Cemani can fetch upwards of Sh 30,000 due to its rarity, making it a luxury item for enthusiasts. Yet, for Kihara, the investment is worth it, as the bird continues to garner interest from locals and beyond.

Beyond the Ayam Cemani, Charis Farm is home to a diverse array of feathered wonders. From the diminutive Serama, recognized as the world’s smallest chicken breed, to the majestic Brahma chicken, weighing in at over 5.5 kilograms, visitors are treated to a cornucopia of avian marvels.

“The Polish Bantam is another favorite, with its distinctive head feathers resembling a wig,” added Kihara.

For Kihara, ornamental bird rearing is just one facet of her farm’s operations, including dairy, fish, and rabbit farming. This diversification was born out of necessity, as Kihara transitioned from potato farming due to dwindling yields caused by erratic rainfall patterns exacerbated by climate change.

“I was a potato farmer for many years, but declining harvests pushed me to explore other options,” Kihara explained.