Dairy Research Institute unveils ambitious plan to boost fodder, livestock production

KENYA – The Dairy Research Institute in Naivasha, part of the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), has revealed an ambitious plan to triple its fodder production and double its livestock numbers in the coming years. 

This initiative aims to expand the institute’s cultivation of Lucerne, a key livestock feed, from 165 acres to 500 acres on its sprawling 3,000-acre farm. 

The move is designed to meet the growing needs of its expanding livestock population and strengthen the institute’s revenue streams amid reduced government funding.

According to Dr. Samuel Mbuku, the institute’s Director, the expansion will involve upgrading the farm’s irrigation system to boost Lucerne production, which is essential for improving livestock productivity. 

During a recent field event in Naivasha, Dr. Mbuku outlined the strategy, emphasizing the use of Artificial Insemination (AI) technology to increase livestock numbers and enhance output. 

“Within the next few years, we plan to triple our Lucerne cultivation from the current 165 acres to 500 acres and double our livestock numbers to boost our earnings,” Dr. Mbuku said. 

He added that the institute has been sharing its technologies, innovations, and management practices with hundreds of farmers to help them improve their own production and income.

A report by the institute highlights its role as a trusted source for farmers seeking planting materials, livestock genetic resources, and breeds like the Sahiwal cattle, prized for its productivity and resilience in tough weather conditions. 

Recognized as a leading research center in Africa, the institute focuses on cattle, indigenous Kenyan chickens, pigs, and goats. 

Dr. Mbuku noted that ongoing research into climate-smart fodder and pasture varieties is addressing challenges posed by climate change, such as prolonged droughts. 

“These technologies have led to the development of improved livestock breeds that produce more milk and beef with minimal inputs compared to exotic genotypes,” he said.

The institute’s crossbreeding efforts have yielded impressive results, with some breeds now producing an average of 25 liters of milk per day under pasture-based systems. 

Efforts are underway to multiply these breeds and make them accessible to more farmers. 

Climate-resilient fodder crops like Lucerne, brachiaria grass, and sweet potato vines are also being promoted to enhance livestock yields. 

In partnership with others, the institute is working to distribute improved breeds at affordable prices to address Kenya’s annual milk production shortfall.

Reported by Dr. Mbuku, the institute has adopted modern ICT systems, including the Kenya Agricultural Support Platform, to send farmers timely SMS updates on new technologies and weather patterns. 

He also praised the government’s E-Citizen payment system for improving accountability and revenue, despite early challenges. 

Joseph Murago, a farmer from Molo, welcomed the field day, saying it offers valuable insights into modern farming practices. 

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