This archive report was first published on 7 October 2019.
Published on October 7, 2019, officials from the Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) have cautioned livestock farmers against recycling fodder grass seeds.
The move, according to KALRO, has led to less grass production as reused varieties tend to be less productive and nutritious.
As a result, farmers have been advised to purchase fodder seeds from accredited agencies to reduce the recycling of less productive varieties.
With the high cost of hay and diminishing grazing fields due to poor rains in recent years, the cost of milk and other livestock products has skyrocketed.
Now, KALRO is researching high-yielding varieties of fodder grass, with some improved seeds expected to be available to farmers in three months' time.
Additionally, farmers are being encouraged to purchase animal feeds from accredited stores to minimize cases of poor-quality products.
The new improved and drought-resistant grass varieties are expected to hit the shelves in a year's time after tests and approvals.
