Lodwar: Juncao grass is emerging as a revolutionary solution for livestock farmers in Turkana, offering a promising answer to the challenges posed by climate change and resource conflicts. Although Turkana boasts the largest livestock population in Kenya, pastoralists face diminishing returns due to unreliable economic conditions exacerbated by climate change and ongoing conflicts over water and pasture, which threaten their livelihoods.
According to Kenya News Agency, the introduction of Juncao grass technology is proving to be a game changer for Turkana's livestock farmers. Developed by the China Society Institute after 30 years of research and promoted by UNDP, Juncao grass offers high production per acre and rich nutritional value. Jack Liu, an investor in the technology, explains that one acre of Juncao grass can yield 180 tonnes, sufficient to feed 20 cows or 200 goats annually. The grass, rich in proteins and sugar molasses, matures in three to four months and can be harvested bi-monthly for seven years.
Livestock farmer David Ekiru from Uasin Gishu and Baringo counties has already witnessed improvements in dairy cattle milk production after adopting Juncao grass. His cows now produce significantly more milk than before, and their overall health has improved due to reduced distances for pasture and water. Liu highlights that cattle fed with Juncao grass mature faster and achieve significantly higher weights compared to those relying on natural grazing.
Local businesswoman Elizabeth Lobur plans to process Juncao pellets, tapping into the growing market for fodder. Liu emphasizes the importance of embracing Juncao grass technology to address fodder shortages. The UN has promoted this grass in over 100 countries, and the Chinese government supports it as a solution for poverty alleviation in Africa. The World Bank and other partners will supply mature cuttings to further assist livestock farmers, offering an affordable option for purchasing Juncao grass silage.
Lobur is committed to supplying Juncao grass silage, aiming to benefit local farmers and enhance livestock production in the county.