Nyahururu: High cost of animal feed coupled with lack of knowledge on the right animal feed for dairy animals are the main challenges facing dairy farmers in Kenya. Duncan Njoroge, a renowned veterinarian in Nyahururu town, emphasized the importance of understanding the appropriate feed for dairy animals to enhance milk production.
According to Kenya News Agency, Njoroge highlighted that dairy farmers need to be aware of the specific feeds that can boost milk output. He explained that animals intended for milk production should be fed with hybrid dairy animal feeds to potentially increase milk yield to about 40 liters, especially with a good milk-producing animal. These feeds should be supplemented with vitamins and mineral salts for added nutrition.
Njoroge also noted a concerning trend where some farmers aim to maintain a large number of animals but provide inadequate feeding, which often leads to low profitability. He sources most of the animal feed ingredients from crops like cotton, soya, maize jam, and sunflowers, both locally and from Uganda. Ensuring the feed is sealed properly and free from aflatoxins is crucial to prevent harm to the animals, and proper storage is maintained until it reaches customers.
Furthermore, Njoroge advised farmers against storing animal feeds on the floor, recommending instead that feeds be kept on a raised platform for adequate ventilation, which helps in preserving the quality of the feed.