As the long rains continue to nourish agricultural fields across Kenya, dairy farmers in Murang’a County are being strongly encouraged to take full advantage of the favorable weather by investing in strategic fodder production and preservation to cushion themselves against future feed shortages.
Agricultural experts are emphasizing the importance of foresight and planning during this period of abundance, particularly in fodder cultivation and storage.
Bernard Ndung’u, a soil analyst and co-founder of Fadhili Africa Ltd, advises farmers to seize the opportunity presented by the rains to grow fast-maturing, nutrient-rich fodder and properly store surplus for use during dry spells.
“The ongoing rains have significantly improved pasture growth and feed quality,” said Ndung’u. “Farmers should take this time to plant high-yielding, sustainable fodder varieties that not only mature quickly but also regenerate rapidly after harvesting.”
He noted that feed constitutes up to 60 percent of the success in dairy farming, stressing the need for farmers to prioritize fodder that provides a balanced nutritional profile for optimal animal productivity.
Among the fodder crops recommended are Napier grass, maize, desmodium, Rhodes grass, and sorghum — each offering unique advantages in terms of nutritional content, regrowth potential, and storage versatility.
Napier Grass and Its Superior Hybrid
Napier grass, a staple in many dairy farms, is lauded for its drought resistance, high crude protein content, and ease of propagation through stem cuttings or splits.
However, Ndung’u highlights a superior hybrid variety known as Pakchong 1, or Super Napier, which is a cross between traditional Napier and pearl millet.
“Pakchong 1 is highly vegetative, fast-growing, and contains up to 18 percent crude protein — nearly double the protein content of regular Napier grass,” he said.
This makes it an excellent choice for farmers aiming to enhance milk production and animal health.
Maize, Desmodium, and Other Viable Options
Maize remains a favorite among dairy farmers, especially for silage making. Its high-energy content makes it ideal for preserving as green silage or dry fodder, especially when grown during the rainy season.
Desmodium, a leguminous crop, is recommended for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil and enrich feed with proteins. It can be intercropped with other grasses and typically matures within 3–4 months.
For those considering hay production, perennial grasses like Rhodes grass and sorghum are also viable options.
These grasses grow between 0.5 to 2 meters tall and produce fine, leafy stems that are suitable for drying and storing as hay, either for farm use or commercial sale.
Silage Making: A Lifeline During Dry Spells
Ndung’u underscores the importance of silage making as an effective method of preserving fodder during times of plenty. He advises small-scale farmers to invest in silage bags and adopt basic silage-making practices to secure livestock feed for the future.
“Silage is produced through a fermentation process that preserves the nutritional value of green fodder,” he explained. “After harvesting, the fodder should be wilted under shade to reduce moisture, chopped into small pieces for uniform fermentation, and packed tightly into airtight containers or silage bags.”
Once sealed, the absence of oxygen allows lactic acid bacteria to ferment the sugars in the feed, producing lactic acid which lowers the pH and prevents spoilage by inhibiting harmful microorganisms.
“Properly fermented silage can last for months,” he noted, “but it must be accessed carefully to avoid exposing the remaining feed to air, which can trigger spoilage.”
Soil Testing and Certified Inputs Key to Long-Term Success
To avoid repeated losses and ensure maximum fodder output, farmers are advised to conduct soil testing and use certified planting materials.
Soil analysis provides critical information on nutrient levels and guides farmers on the appropriate fertilizers and crops to use.
“Understanding your soil health and using quality seeds are fundamental steps that every farmer must take seriously,” said Ndung’u. “It ensures that the investment made during this rainy season yields the best possible returns.”
As climate variability continues to challenge Kenya’s agricultural sector, dairy farmers are being called upon to adopt smart farming techniques, including strategic fodder planning and feed conservation, to safeguard their livelihoods and strengthen the resilience of the country’s dairy industry.
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