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Afrimash has unveiled a USSD-based verification platform that enables farmers to verify the authenticity of day-old chicks using just a basic mobile phone. This is a game-changing move for Nigeria’s poultry sector, especially those in rural areas by the leading agritech company.
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The new service is accessible by dialing *349*791#and was launched with the support of global non-profit Acumen. With this service, Afrimash is set to tackle the persistent problem of counterfeit and substandard chicks. A problem that has plagued the country’s poultry industry for years.
Nigeria’s poultry market is valued at over ₦1.6 trillion and supporting millions of livelihoods. Poor-quality or adulterated chicks have caused devastating losses to thousands of farmers. Afrimash’s USSD solution aims to reverse this trend. It’s solution allows farmers to instantly confirm the origin of their chicks and ensure they are sourced from certified hatcheries.
“This is a breakthrough for Nigeria’s agriculture sector,” said Ayoade Oyedotun, CEO of Afrimash. “For years, poultry farmers have endured avoidable losses due to fake or sick chicks. Our USSD platform puts power and peace of mind in their hands — right from the comfort of their mobile phones.”
More Than Verification: A One-Stop Poultry Toolkit
Beyond verification, Afrimash’s USSD solution provides a comprehensive digital ecosystem for poultry farmers. Users can:
- Place orders for high-quality day-old chicks
- Compare prices across certified hatcheries
- Track deliveries in real-time
- Access vaccination guides and poultry management tips
Every order made via the platform qualifies for free nationwide shipping to any of Afrimash’s 80 designated pick-up centers, with 35 centers directly operated by the company. Farmers can also opt for home delivery at an additional fee.
Boosting Rural Access with Farmer Ambassadors
To drive adoption in underserved communities, Afrimash has also launched a Farmer Ambassador Program that recruits agri-enthusiasts and local champions to spread awareness about the platform. Interested individuals can sign up by sending an email to [email protected].
As part of the rollout campaign, first-time users will receive ₦1,000 off their first purchase using the referral code ‘2025’ after dialing the USSD code.
Digitizing Agriculture for a Better Future
The USSD platform aligns with Afrimash’s broader mission to digitize access to farm inputs and improve farmer productivity through technology. In addition to its product offerings, the company delivers agricultural advisory services via mobile and hosts monthly webinars on poultry management, vaccinations, and best practices.
“We’re not just selling chicks — we’re building trust, delivering convenience, and redefining access for Nigerian farmers,” Oyedotun added. “This is the future of poultry farming, and it’s inclusive, tech-driven, and farmer-first.”
