A high-yielding forage crop, Juncao grass, is being promoted as a potential solution to Zimbabwe’s ongoing livestock feed challenges.
Speaking at the sidelines of ZITF, on Saturday, Agriculture for Rural Development Director, Leonard Munamati, said the crop could play a significant role in improving livestock productivity, particularly for smallholder farmers who frequently face feed shortages during dry periods.
“Juncao grass has a crude protein content of about 18.6%, which makes it a highly nutritious feed supplement for livestock,” said Mr. Munamati. “Under suitable conditions, it can yield over 300 tonnes per hectare, which presents a significant opportunity for boosting fodder availability in the country.”
He said the grass is meant to complement, rather than replace, existing feeding systems. “The idea is to strengthen current feed resources. If farmers integrate Juncao grass into their systems, we expect improved livestock health, better weight gain, and higher productivity,” he said.
Munamati noted that improved feed availability could directly benefit rural households by enhancing herd quality and increasing livestock-based incomes. Beyond livestock feed, Juncao grass has additional uses. It can serve as a substrate for mushroom production, supporting small-scale agribusiness opportunities and value addition. It also plays a role in land reclamation and soil restoration, particularly in areas affected by erosion and land degradation.
“Juncao is a multifunctional crop. It supports livestock feeding, mushroom farming, and also helps restore degraded land,” he said.
The Ministry of Agriculture is working with agricultural colleges, research stations, and extension services to multiply planting material and distribute it to farmers across the country. The goal is to expand access and encourage wider adoption at grassroots level.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen resilience in the livestock sector through climate-smart and high-yield forage solutions capable of performing under changing weather conditions.
