Similar to many aspiring dairy farmers, the athlete embarked on his journey with a small herd of cows that yielded a modest amount of milk.
Kiptanui began with 20 cows, which collectively produced approximately 20 litres of milk each day.
By the year 2020, his herd had expanded to 150 cows, resulting in a daily production of up to 1,000 litres.
He manages 100 acres of land in Cherangany dedicated to dairy farming and engages in his own breeding practices to ensure the acquisition of superior milk-producing breeds.
In 2020, the most productive cow in his herd yielded 35 litres of milk daily, while the least productive cow provided 15 litres.
Additionally, Kiptanui manufactures his own animal feeds to enhance profitability and reduce the expenses associated with dairy farming.
“I formulate my own feeds here at the farm and this ensures that I get the right ratio and the right nutrients for my cows,” he said.
The ex-athlete has diversified his investments into real estate and operates a supermarket chain that extends across Cherangany, Kachibora, Eldoret, and Kitale.
On December 5, 2020, Kiptanui inaugurated the newest branch of his supermarket at Komora Center in the Eldoret Central Business District.
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He also owns the building housing this establishment.
“This is our fourth branch after many years of trying to catch up with other retailers. It is good to sacrifice to run for the country and also sacrifice in this world of business
“At the moment, we have 30 employees and we are being supported by other branches. When business gets back to normal, we expect to employ up to 70 staff in this branch,” he stated during the grand opening event.
Under the Tulin brand, Kiptanui operates a bakery that produces bread and various other items, which he distributes to his supermarkets.
He also acknowledged that, although he is involved in dairy farming, he sells milk from different brands in his supermarket.
“In most cases you would find that imported milk is Ksh 10 cheaper when compared with our local commodity, this makes it difficult for it to compete in shops as consumers will tend to go for one with cheaper price,” he said.
On June 8, 1995, Kiptanui set a new world record in the steeplechase during a Grand Prix event held at the Rome Olympic Stadium in Italy.
In recognition of his remarkable achievement, he was awarded a pedigree stallion.
However, he faced logistical difficulties concerning the transportation of the stallion to Kenya, which ultimately led him to sell the horse prior to his return.
He disclosed that he sold the stallion for approximately Ksh 880,000, unaware that the financial gain from this sale would serve as a catalyst for his entry into entrepreneurship.
This newfound wealth transformed his life, enabling him to transition from a steeplechase champion to a successful milk producer in the North Rift and a prominent real estate investor.
