Afrimash, an agritech firm in Nigeria, has introduced a USSD code 349791# to help poultry farmers verify the authenticity of day-old chicks before making any purchases.
This initiative, developed with support from the non-profit organization Acumen, is aimed at tackling the widespread issue of fake and low-quality chicks that have caused huge losses for farmers, especially in rural areas.
The new platform allows users with simple mobile phones to confirm whether chicks come from certified hatcheries. It also offers other features, including the ability to place orders for quality chicks, track purchases, compare prices, and access vaccination information.
Afrimash CEO, Ayoade Oyedotun, described the service as a major step forward for poultry farming. He explained that the platform would give farmers the confidence to make safer and more reliable purchases. Every order made through the USSD system qualifies for free delivery to any of the company’s 80 pick-up centers across the country. Additionally, home delivery is available at a small cost.
To promote the service, Afrimash has launched the Farmer Ambassador Program, encouraging farmers and agricultural enthusiasts to share information about the USSD code within their communities. Those interested in joining the program can register by emailing chicksmart@afrimash.com. New users also get ₦1,000 off their first order when they use the referral code ‘2025’.
Oyedotun said this innovation is part of Afrimash’s broader mission to digitize farming and improve access to quality agricultural inputs. Beyond chick sales, the company offers mobile-based consulting and regular webinars to support poultry farmers with expert knowledge and best practices.
With this launch, Afrimash aims to restore trust in poultry production, making farming more efficient and secure for Nigerian farmers.
