By Jackline Mauta
Dairy farming is a vital source of income and nutrition for many smallholder farmers in western Kenya; however, low milk yields caused by poor-quality fodder remain a common challenge. For years, farmers have relied on traditional Napier grass and other local fodder varieties that often lack sufficient protein to support optimal milk production. The introduction of Super Napier Pakchong 1 is changing this, offering a high-protein, fast-growing grass that is transforming dairy farms across the region.
Super Napier Pakchong is a hybrid grass developed at Thailand’s Pak Chong Research Center. It combines the resilience of Napier grass with the nutritional benefits of pearl millet, producing a grass that grows rapidly, delivers high biomass yields, and is rich in protein. As a result, it is a reliable option for farmers seeking to improve milk yields and overall dairy productivity in Kenya.
One of the most significant advantages of Super Napier is its impact on milk production. Cows fed on this nutrient-rich fodder receive higher levels of protein and energy, which directly translates into increased milk output. Farmers who have adopted the grass through FIPS Africa’s programs report noticeable improvements, with dairy cows producing more milk than ever before. This boost in productivity strengthens household incomes and improves nutrition, and supports stronger local dairy value chains.
Beyond its nutritional benefits, Super Napier is highly resilient and adaptable. It thrives in a variety of soils and can withstand periods of drought, making it a dependable fodder option for farmers in regions with unpredictable rainfall. Its rapid growth allows for multiple harvests per year, ensuring a steady supply of feed and reducing dependence on costly commercial feeds. The combination of high-yield, nutrient-dense fodder and adaptability makes it a game-changer for smallholder dairy farming in Western Kenya.
FIPS Africa plays a pivotal role in helping farmers access and benefit from this innovation. Through its network of Village-Based Advisors (VBAs), farmers receive guidance on planting, spacing, harvesting, and feeding strategies to maximize the impact of Super Napier. This support bridges the gap between agricultural research and practical farm-level application, ensuring farmers can fully leverage the grass to improve milk yields and livestock health.
Farmers’ experiences underscore the transformative power of this grass. Many have shared stories of cows producing more milk, remaining healthier, and families benefiting from increased income through sales of surplus milk. Super Napier not only improves livestock nutrition but also reduces household expenses on commercial feeds, making it an economic and nutritional breakthrough for communities in western Kenya.
