Nairobi: The government is actively promoting Juncao grass technology, an initiative aimed at enhancing livestock feed supply, especially during dry periods. This technology, originating from China, presents a viable solution for regions grappling with semi-arid and drought conditions. It offers a high-yield, fast-growing fodder option that requires minimal inputs compared to traditional pastures.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Livestock Development, Jonathan Mueke, highlighted during a national capacity-building workshop in Nairobi that a significant challenge in the livestock sector is the provision of adequate, affordable, and nutritionally balanced animal feeds. Mueke pointed out issues such as the low productivity of existing fodder varieties, insufficient fodder conservation practices, high costs of feed ingredients, and the pressure on rangelands due to increasing livestock populations.
In his address, delivered by the Director of Livestock Production, Bishar Elmi, Mueke emphasized the necessity for Kenya to explore alternative and climate-resilient fodder production technologies. These alternatives would supplement natural pastures and conventional fodder crops. Juncao technology, introduced in Kenya five years ago, has shown significant promise in livestock feeding systems due to its high crude protein content and adaptability across various ecological zones.
Director Elmi acknowledged the challenges faced in semi-arid areas, including a 60 percent feed deficit, which hampers meat and milk production. The country’s annual meat demand stands at 600 metric tonnes, yet production is only 495 tonnes. Juncao technology, which has a crude protein content between 13 and 16 percent, is seen as a key strategy to address this gap.
The government plans to allocate two acres of land per ward for propagating Juncao grass. This initiative aims to complement existing feed production and address the feed deficit. Additionally, the Ministry of Livestock Development is contracting farmers to produce raw materials for compound feeds, supporting a target of producing 10 billion litres of milk by 2027.
Subsidized cuttings of Juncao grass are being provided to farmers to encourage multiplication and affordable pricing, aiming to achieve sustainable livestock transformation for over 10 million Kenyans relying on livestock for their livelihoods.
The UN Resident Coordinator, Stephen Jackson, emphasized the importance of the workshop, noting that it integrates policy, science, and field experience. He highlighted the crucial role of the agriculture sector in Kenya’s economy and the potential of Juncao technology to support sustainable farming systems, environmental restoration, and climate resilience.
Prof. Lin Dong-Mei from the China National Engineering Research Centre of Juncao and Dr. LIN Zhanxi, the Chief Scientist and Inventor of Juncao Technology, shared insights on the potential yields of Juncao grass. They noted its ease of cultivation and high yield potential, highlighting its role in addressing Kenya’s 33 million-tonne annual feed deficit.
The three-day National Capacity Building workshop in Nairobi, themed “Promoting JUNCAO technology for resilient food systems, poverty eradication, and climate adaptation in Kenya,” underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging innovative technologies for agricultural and economic development.
