Genetic Transfer: GenePlus & CCCD Team Up for Sustainable Livestock

In an increasingly interconnected world, collaborations that transcend borders are essential for solving complex global challenges. We sat down with Jan Balbach-Sobkowicz, Project Manager & Business Coach at CCCD, who recently completed an impactful project with GenePlus Global Ltd., a company dedicated to revolutionizing livestock breeding in Africa. This interview-style article offers a behind-the-scenes look at the project's highs, lows, and crucial lessons learned.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74EkzjXi4_4

Caroline, Dairy Farmer and Beneficiary of GenePlus Easy Breed last-mile Services, Nakuru, Kenya [Video Credit: GenePLus Global Ldt.]

The Vision: From America to Africa

GenePlus Global Ltd. is at the forefront of providing modern animal health and livestock breeding solutions. Their main business focuses on an innovative genetic transfer process, bringing the superior genetics of American dairy cows to African breeds. This isn't just about improving milk production; it's about enhancing on-farm productivity, profitability, and sustainability for local farmers.

Geneplus Easy Breed [Image Credit: GenePLus Global Ldt.]

"The core business is so compelling," Jan explains. "It’s about using advanced technology to create real, tangible benefits for a community. It’s a solution that addresses both economic and food security challenges."

In addition to their primary business, the company also handles agricultural products as a side venture, demonstrating a holistic approach to supporting the agricultural sector.

The Project Journey: Challenges and Discoveries

Jan's initial task was twofold: to review and improve the business case for investing in a local production plant for operational materials in Kenya and to scale up the company's "last-mile distribution service."

"When we started, there was a lot of excitement," Jan recalls. "What would we find? What demands were realistic? Both tasks seemed challenging, not just for the entrepreneur but for us as a team."

Liquid Nitrogen [Image Credit: GenePLus Global Ldt.]

The team quickly realized that a significant amount of research was needed. This included delving into the technical requirements of the planned technology, the supply chain in Kenya, and even the social and ecological implications of the breeding program. "We needed to understand the bigger picture," Jan adds, "from the specifics of the supply chain to the opinions of NGOs and international organizations on climate-resilient breeding practices."

As the project unfolded, the focus shifted. The ambition to build a new production plant was eventually put on hold. "There was some disappointment when we realized the main task we had in mind was overly ambitious for the company's current setup," Jan admits. "It was a reality check."

However, this pivot allowed the team to pour their energy into the second, more pressing task: stabilizing and scaling the last-mile distribution service. It was here that they saw the most significant progress. "It was very satisfying to see clear, visible progress in the 'last mile' part of the project," Jan notes.

Collaboration and Mutual Respect

A key factor in the project's success was the open and engaging collaboration between the entrepreneur and Jan's team. "Our entrepreneur was incredibly committed, open, and easy to work with," Jan states. "They shared all the information we requested—documents, plans, business documents, everything."

Despite the geographical distance, regular online meetings fostered a strong working relationship. Jan also highlighted the value of working in a two-person team. "From my perspective, our approach of always working in pairs proved its worth, and it was a lot of fun working with my partner, Ortwin."

A Humbling Reflection on Impact

In looking back, Jan shared some profound insights about the nature of a consultant's role. "We probably have to accept that our contribution might be small or not fully visible," they reflect. "The entrepreneur is the expert. We can only help them recognize their situation, their opportunities, and maybe re-evaluate them from a different, more detached perspective."

Jan emphasized that a consultant's job is not to know better but to support. For anyone considering similar work, Jan offered a few pieces of advice:

• Prepare thoroughly: "Seek to create your own picture of the business and the country."

• Ask open-ended questions: "Fewer statements, more open questions."

• Be humble: "Try to learn yourself and always maintain a positive perspective."

  
  

Ultimately, this project highlights how partnership, built on mutual respect and a shared desire for positive change, can help a business navigate its challenges and move forward on the path to sustainable growth.

"The entrepreneur is the expert. We can only help them recognize their situation, their opportunities, and maybe re-evaluate them from a different, more detached perspective."

Jan Balbach-Sobkowicz