In Uganda, many small dairy farmers struggle to feed their cows during the dry season, which limits milk production and income. Traditionally, farmers rely on Napier grass, but it doesn’t grow well without rain and is affected by disease and poor management.
A study in Masaka District tested a better solution: mixing drought-tolerant grasses and legumes. Farmers planted two combinations—Napier grass with Centrosema and Brachiaria (Mulato) with Clitoria—each on half a hectare. Compared to planting only Napier grass, this mix gave 52% more forage, higher protein, and longer feeding periods.
Farmers who used this mix fed their cows more and got 80% more milk, raising household income by 52%. Even though the method needs more land (1 hectare instead of 0.5), the gains in milk and income made it worthwhile.
This research shows that combining drought-resistant grasses and legumes is a smart way to feed dairy cows all year and boost farmer profits—even in tough weather. For smallholder farmers, it’s a practical, affordable way to fight hunger and poverty, and build a stronger future for their families (Based on research by Kabirizi et al. (2013)).
Comments are closed