Naivasha: The Dairy Research Institute in Naivasha, a division of the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), has announced plans to triple its fodder production and double its livestock numbers in the coming years. The initiative will see the institute expand its cultivation of Lucerne from the current 165 acres to 500 acres to meet the feeding needs of its livestock growing-population at its expansive 3,000-acre farm.
According to Kenya News Agency, the institute's Director, Dr Samuel Mbuku, stated that these goals will be achieved by upgrading and expanding the farm's irrigation system to enhance Lucerne production, which has been identified as a key ingredient for boosting livestock productivity. Speaking during a field event in Naivasha, Dr Mbuku said the institute would also harness Artificial Insemination (AI) technology to increase livestock numbers and improve production, all aimed at strengthening internal revenue streams amidst dwindling government funding.
Dr. Mbuku emphasized the institute's role in showcasing technologies, innovations, and management practices to farmers, equipping them with knowledge to enhance their livestock production and earnings. He noted that farmers rely on the institute for planting materials, livestock genetic resources, and breeds, including the Sahiwal cattle breed, known for its productivity and resilience to harsh weather conditions.
The institute has been recognized as a leading center for research in Africa, focusing on livestock such as cattle, KARLO indigenous Kenyan chicken, pigs, and goats. Dr Mbuku highlighted ongoing research into climate-smart fodder and pasture varieties capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. This research has led to improved livestock breeds that produce more milk and beef with minimal inputs compared to exotic genotypes.
He mentioned that crossbreeding research had resulted in higher milk production, with some breeds averaging 25 litres per day under pasture-based systems. The institute is now working on mass multiplication of these breeds to reach more farmers. Additionally, the institute has invested in climate-resilient fodder crops like Lucerne, brachiaria grass, and sweet potato vines to improve livestock yields and earnings.
Dr Mbuku stated that the institute, with partners, is working to multiply and distribute improved livestock breeds at affordable prices to address the country's annual milk production deficit. The institute has also invested in modern ICT systems to provide farmers with updates via SMS on new livestock and crop technologies and weather patterns through the Kenya Agricultural Support Platform.
He praised the government's E-Citizen single-pay bill system for improving accountability and boosting the institute's revenues, noting that initial challenges during its rollout have been resolved. Dr Mbuku expressed the institute's commitment to providing farmers nationwide with innovative livestock and crop technologies to meet growing demand and improve their production and earnings.
Farmers attending the field day, like Joseph Murago from Molo, expressed optimism about gaining insights into modern technologies and best farming practices. Eunice Mamo from Nyandarua highlighted the importance of the KALRO field day in teaching farmers about silage production for sustaining livestock during dry seasons.