Livestock Farming in Namwala
Namwala District in Zambia's Southern Province boasts a remarkable livestock population of 165,000, far exceeding its human population. For most households in this region, livestock farming is more than just a livelihood; it's a way of life. Farmers in Namwala supply cattle to leading meat processors such as Zambeef, Starbeef, and Termites. The district's dairy farmers also provide milk to major processors, including Dairy Gold Zambia Limited and Verun, although Lactalis Zambia recently ceased operations.
Impact of Drought on Livestock Farming
Despite the vital role livestock farming plays in the district's economy, farmers have faced significant challenges in recent years due to the effects of El Niño-induced droughts. These droughts have led to severe feed shortages, malnutrition, and a rise in livestock diseases, leaving farmers struggling to sustain their herds. In recognition of the crisis, the President of Zambia declared the drought an emergency.
Introduction of Hydroponic Fodder Production
To help farmers cope with these challenges, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) partnered with the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries to introduce hydroponic fodder production. This innovative method has become a lifeline, providing a sustainable alternative to natural pasture during periods of drought.
What is Hydroponic Fodder?
Hydroponic fodder involves growing young, tender grass, often from cereal grains, in controlled environments that require minimal water and sunlight. In just 7–10 days, farmers can produce nutrient-rich fodder ready to feed livestock. The sprouted seedlings typically grow to a height of 20–25 cm, providing a quick and reliable source of nutrition.
Kickstarting Hydroponic Fodder Production in Namwala
To kick-start production in Namwala, sorghum seed was distributed to farmers, and four hydroponic structures were constructed using locally available, affordable materials such as wooden poles, timber rails, wires, nails, trays, and tents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hydroponic Fodder Production
The process of producing hydroponic fodder begins with seed selection and soaking. Untreated sorghum seeds are placed in water to separate viable seeds from non-viable ones. The viable, heavier seeds sink to the bottom, while non-viable seeds float to the surface and are discarded. This ensures that only seeds capable of sprouting are used, improving the overall yield.
After selection, the viable seeds are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and reduce the risk of fungal contamination during the sprouting process. A mild disinfectant, such as a diluted bleach solution, can be used during washing to further ensure hygiene. The cleaned seeds are then soaked in water for 8 - 12 hours to soften their outer layer, facilitating germination. Following the soaking period, the seeds are drained and placed in jute sacks or other breathable materials for incubation. During this stage, which lasts 40 - 48 hours, the seeds sprout, marking the initial growth phase.
Once the seeds have sprouted, they are evenly spread onto trays specifically designed for hydroponic production. These trays are constructed with a slight slope and drainage holes to allow excess water to flow out and prevent waterlogging. Proper spacing of the seeds on the trays ensures uniform growth and adequate access to moisture and nutrients.
Watering is a critical step in the process and is performed 3 - 4 times daily using a sprinkler method. This ensures the sprouting seeds remain moist without becoming waterlogged, which could promote fungal growth. The trays should remain undisturbed during the entire growing period to maintain optimal conditions for the developing fodder.
Within 6 - 7 days, the sprouted seeds grow into tender, nutrient-rich fodder, reaching a height of 20 - 25 cm (7.87 to 9.84 inches). At this stage, the hydroponic fodder is ready for harvesting. The fresh, green fodder can be fed directly to livestock, providing them with a high-quality, palatable, and nutritious feed that supports improved health and productivity.
Advantages of Hydroponic Fodder for Livestock Farmers
Hydroponic fodder offers numerous advantages, making it an ideal solution for livestock feeding. It is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, and essential nutrients, ensuring high nutritional value. Livestock find it highly palatable and digestible, contributing to increased meat and milk production. This method is remarkably water-efficient, requiring only 4 liters of water to produce 7 kg (15.43 lbs) of fodder compared to the 100 liters needed for natural fodder. Additionally, hydroponic fodder can be grown year-round, providing a consistent supply regardless of seasonal changes. It is also space-efficient, as just one square meter of space can produce enough fodder for two cows daily. With a short growing period of 7-10 days, hydroponic fodder proves to be a practical and reliable solution during droughts.
Disadvantages of Hydroponic Fodder
Despite its numerous advantages, hydroponic fodder production has some disadvantages. One major limitation is the scarcity of preferred cereals, which can make it challenging to maintain consistent production. The initial setup cost for constructing a hydroponic unit, including trays, racks, and shade nets, can be relatively high for small-scale farmers. The system also requires careful temperature, humidity, and hygiene management to prevent issues such as fungal contamination, which can affect fodder quality. Furthermore, hydroponic fodder alone may not meet all the nutritional requirements of livestock and must be supplemented with other feed sources, increasing overall feeding costs. Lastly, the system's dependency on reliable water and labor for daily watering and maintenance can pose challenges, especially in resource-limited areas.
Feeding Recommendations for Livestock: How to Use Hydroponic Fodder
Hydroponic fodder can be fed to livestock alongside other feed and dry fodder for balanced nutrition. Chickens can start eating hydroponic fodder 3–4 days after sprouting, while cattle and other livestock can consume it by day 6 or 7. However, fodder should not be kept beyond 8 days, as its nutritional value declines.
Feeding Recommendations Table
Livestock Type |
Number of Livestock |
Feed Quantity/Day (kg) |
Chicken |
100 |
7 |
Pig |
5 |
7 |
Cow |
1 |
7 |
Shade Construction for Hydroponic Fodder
To grow high-quality fodder, farmers need to control environmental conditions such as temperature (15-32°C or 59-89.6°F) and humidity (80-85%). Simple sheds can be constructed using bamboo logs, iron rods, or plastic pipes, with coverings made of shed netting or gunny bags. Trays for growing fodder should be durable, made of plastic or aluminum, and have small holes to allow excess water to drain.
Conclusion: A Lifeline for Namwala Farmers
The introduction of hydroponic fodder production in Namwala District has provided farmers with a sustainable solution to feed shortages. This practice ensures the survival of livestock and boosts productivity, offering hope to farmers who depend on livestock for their livelihood. In the face of recurring climate-related challenges, hydroponic fodder production is not just a solution but it is a necessity for the sustainability of the livestock sector in Namwala.
References
https://www.namwalatrust.org/livestock