8. Scaling up the use of fodder shrubs in central Kenya

Wambugu, C.; Franzel, Steven; Tuwei, P.; Karanja, G.M.

doi:10.3362/9780855986896.008

Cited by 6 publications

(2 citation statements)

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“…Several studies from across Africa have documented the positive impacts of fodder trees on human livelihoods (e.g. Franzel 2004 in Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia; Wambugu et al 2006 across East Africa; Toth et al 2017 in Malawi). Incorporating this type of trees into agro-silvopastoral systems can also contribute to environmental rehabilitation, e.g.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Harvesting fodder trees in montane forests in Kenya: species, techniques used and impacts

et al. 2018

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There has been an increasing interest in fodder trees and their potential to help the rural poor. However, few studies have addressed the ecological impacts of fodder tree harvesting. We investigated the species harvested and the techniques used, and the effects of fodder harvesting on (1) species’ populations and (2) forest carbon stocks in three montane forests in Kenya. Focus-group discussions were organized in 36 villages to determine which species were harvested and with which techniques. Field observations were made on vegetation plots: stem diameter, tree height, species and extent of harvest were recorded. Carbon stocks were calculated using an allometric equation with (1) observed height of harvested trees, and (2) potential height estimated with a power model, and results were compared. Eight tree species were commonly harvested for fodder using different techniques (some branches, main stem, most branches except stem apex). Fodder harvesting (together with other uses for some species) negatively affected one species populations (Olea europaea), it did not negatively affect four (Drypetes gerrardii, Gymnosporia heterophylla, Pavetta gardeniifolia, Xymalos monospora), and more information is needed for three species (Olea capensis, Prunus africana, Rinorea convallarioides). Fodder harvesting did not significantly reduce forest carbon stocks, suggesting that local communities could continue using these fodder trees if a carbon project is established. Among the fodder species studied, X. monospora could be used in reforestation programs, as it has multiple uses and can withstand severe pruning. Although our study is only a snapshot, it is a baseline which can be used to monitor changes in fodder harvesting and its impacts related to increasing droughts in northern Kenya and increasing human populations.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Harvesting fodder trees in montane forests in Kenya: species, techniques used and impacts

et al. 2018

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“…For instance, in an experimental station, vetch can optimize both the biological and economic response of dairy cows when supplemented at the rate of 50% replacement of a formulated concentrate mix (Getu et al, 2010). Moreover, improving the supply of good quality fodder, particularly when linked to the provision of improved (exotic or crossbred) dairy animals, has the potential to increase milk production, and hence family incomes and nutrition, dramatically (Wambugu et al, 2006). In this regard, farmer-to-farmer extension and demonstration at the Farmer’s Training Center could be successful methods to promote improved forages.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Factors influencing intensification of dairy production systems in Ethiopia

et al. 2018

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Little is known of how dairy intensification driven by socioeconomic issues and dairy development efforts works as well as the challenges of changing production systems in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. A study was carried out to analyze factors determining intensification of dairy production systems and the present status of market-oriented smallholder dairy operations in Ethiopia. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 200 dairy farmers. The results revealed that 77% of respondents reared improved/crossbred dairy cows, 53.5% acquired good manure management besides crossbreeding, and 44% of the sampled rural households were involved in cultivating improved forage crops and crossbreeding practices. The binary logistic regression model output showed that herd size, farmland size, dairy training, and cooperative membership had significant effects on cultivating improved forages. Dairy production system, dairying experience, and herd size were significantly associated with rearing only crossbred dairy cows. Farmland size, dairy system, and awareness of manure handling were significantly associated with practicing good manure management. Further analysis of the extent of intensification indicated that mean daily milk yield per cow and household milk market share were significantly related to crossbreeding and manure management practices in combination. Thus, production systems–based dairy breeding and manure management, related input supply, and alternative formal marketing options are the key attributes of the intensification and improved productivity of smallholder dairy production that need to be considered while designing policy and intervention.

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