The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze, has urged dairy farmers to prioritize planning for sufficient animal feeds to ensure sustainable production, good animal health, and proper nutrition.
Speaking ahead of the Easter weekend, Tumwebaze highlighted that while corn (maize) silage is highly recommended for dairy animals due to its high starch content, most farmers struggle with its high production costs, which recur every season.
He proposed Napier grass silage as a cost-effective alternative, noting its regenerative capabilities and potential to produce milk yields comparable to maize silage if managed properly using additives such as molasses or maize flour.
Tumwebaze added that Napier grass is also high in protein and can be fed fresh, offering farmers flexibility in feeding practices.
“Planning for enough feeds in dairy farming is very critical for sustainable production, animal health, and nutrition,” he said, emphasizing proper management of locally available feed resources.
