Livestock farmers in Kenya are adopting Juncao grass, a drought-resistant fodder from China, to strengthen their resilience against climate challenges and improve livestock productivity.
Well-suited for arid and semi-arid regions, Juncao grass is an ideal choice for farmers facing the impacts of climate change and ongoing droughts. It flourishes in low-fertility soils and can thrive under rain-fed conditions, providing a reliable source of fodder even during dry spells.
With a crude protein content of around 18%, Juncao grass significantly outperforms traditional fodder options like Napier grass. This high nutritional value leads to improved milk production in dairy cattle, with some farmers reporting increases in milk yield of up to 40%.
Farmers can harvest Juncao grass multiple times a year, achieving yields of up to 180 metric tonnes per acre. This high productivity makes it a cost-effective solution for livestock feeding.
The adoption of Juncao grass has led to increased income for farmers. For example, one farmer reported that after switching to Juncao, his cows’ milk production doubled, allowing him to sell surplus milk at local markets.
Juncao grass also contributes positively to environmental sustainability by helping to combat desertification and soil erosion while promoting biodiversity. Its ability to self-propagate further enhances its appeal as a sustainable fodder option.
Mr Kirimi advocates for a shift from traditional Napier grass to advanced varieties such as Super Napier and Juncao, which provide all the nutrients livestock need for maximum yields without the need for additional processed food supplements.
“Some of these feeds can supply up to 18% of the protein requirements for high-yielding dairy cows,” he said.
He noted that superior Napier grass requires more water, primarily needed during the planting phase. He emphasised the importance of planting during wetter periods for success, as the remainder of the growth period requires less water.
Mr Kirimi also acknowledged that hybrid Napier grass like Juncao, known for its high crude protein content, is gaining popularity among dairy farmers in Meru and the neighbouring counties of Isiolo and Embu due to the ease of propagating its stem cuttings and its drought-resistant qualities.
Ms Peninah Karimi, an agronomist and advocate for the propagation of Juncao grass in various growing areas, explained that Juncao technology was initiated in China to combat drought and poverty, as the plant thrives well in dry environments.
Ms. Karimi explained that Juncao grass is similar to local Napier grass, but stands out with its soft leaves and quick maturity in just three months.
“This remarkable plant can produce up to 180 tonnes of fodder per acre!,” she said
Farmers, even in arid and semi-arid areas, are switching to this crop, which has proven to boost milk yield in dairy farming.
“This Napier is highly vegetative, with a protein content of 18%, double that of ordinary Napier,” she noted.
Near Isiolo town, farmer Royford Kimathi is replacing traditional Napier grass with this superior variety on his farm. He plans to cultivate Juncao grass on over 10 acres, having
already planted four acres and propagating more cuttings for the remaining land.
Mr. Kimathi believes that embracing high-quality grass varieties will transform both the dairy and beef sectors, particularly in regions with unreliable rainfall, which typically experience a seven-month dry season.
Given the limited land available, he asserts that farmers will prefer hybrid livestock fodder varieties that yield highly desirable results for sustainability in the sector.
With the Meteorological Department predicting insufficient rainfall in certain areas, livestock farmers are advised to focus on fast-maturing fodder farming for resilience during dry spells.
Farmers are encouraged to choose varieties that require less water for growth.
Training facilitator and head lecturer in the Agriculture and Livestock department at Meru National Polytechnic, Gatobu Rarama, warned of the dire consequences for livestock farmers during droughts if they lack sufficient stored fodder.
“The farmers are frustrated by a lack of fodder for their animals, which could lead to reduced production in dairy farming, emaciated animals, and even death due to hunger,” Mr. Rarama emphasized, urging a rethink on fodder preservation to prepare for droughts and harsh weather.
He encourages farmers to grow drought-resistant fodder such as Rhode grass, Super Napier, Juncao grass, sorghum, desmodium, and maize, and to consider silage storage for future use.
“Farmers should adopt fodder that provides a good and balanced diet, which would not hinder productivity, promote rapid growth, and maintain good body condition throughout the year,” he explained
A senior livestock production officer at Isiolo County government, Stanley Kirimi, revealed that a significant number of private and community groups in the county have already started sustainable fodder growing, which is easier to cultivate and preserve for future use.
Many women and youth groups are thriving in the Rhodes grass business, harvesting and storing the grass to sell to fellow farmers who are new to the fodder market or in need of it for their livestock.