The difference between farming and agribusiness is knowing your numbers. You do not need software — an exercise book and discipline are enough to start. These four records are the foundation we teach in our entrepreneurship trainings.
1. The money book
Every shilling in and out, dated, with one line of description. Inputs, transport, casual labour, sales — everything. At the end of the month you will know, not guess, whether you made money.
2. The production record
What you planted or stocked, when, and what you harvested or sold. This is how you learn which crop, plot or flock actually earns and which quietly eats your profit.
3. The customer book
Who bought, what quantity, at what price, and when they pay. Reliable buyers deserve priority; slow payers need firm terms. Aggregators and institutional buyers value farmers who can show consistent supply history.
4. The input & price diary
Track what inputs cost each season and what prices your produce fetched, month by month. After one year you will see the seasonal price patterns — and can plan planting to hit the high-price windows.
These records are also your ticket to bigger things: banks, buyers and programs like the Aggregator Enhancement Program all ask for exactly this evidence.