Vol. 10, Issue 3, Part B (2025)

Author(s): Ondiek JO, Kemboi F, Muema L, Ntinyari PN, Shakala EK, Mugambi A, Ajambo R, Olengo G, Odongo S and Cheng Y

Abstract: This study assessed the seasonal availability and utilization of rice straw as livestock feed in smallholder production systems in Kenya's Kirinyaga Region. Data was collected from 101 farmers, predominantly male (73.27%), with most being 45-54 years old (36.63%) and having secondary education (35.64%). The majority (65.35%) owned 1-5 acres of farmland, with 59.41% dedicating this size to rice cultivation. Notably, 42.57% had over ten years of rice farming experience, primarily growing the Basmati variety (50.45%). Livestock ownership patterns revealed cattle as the most common (39.0%), with Holstein/Friesian being the preferred dairy breed (53.90%). Rice by-products were widely used as livestock feed (81.2%), with rice straw being the predominant choice (67.54%). Seasonal variations in feed availability were reported by 92.4% of farmers, with crop residues (36.74%) being the primary feed supplement during dry seasons, particularly rice straw (48.42%). The main challenges in feed conservation included spoilage (54.7%), financial constraints (15.6%), and inadequate storage infrastructure (14.1%). Value addition techniques predominantly involved drying (49.4%) and grinding (36.7%). These findings highlight the significant role of rice straw in local livestock feeding systems and underscore the need for improved conservation and utilization strategies to enhance its value as a sustainable feed resource.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2025.v10.i3b.2110