Haramaya University Researchers Advance Fodder Innovation with Lyme Grass
Researchers at Haramaya University are leading initiatives to adapt and distribute improved animal fodder species that are being well-received by local farmers.
Farmers report that Lyme grass, known locally as Dandemeta, is highly resilient to both cold and drought conditions. It produces high yields in a short time and significantly boosts milk production.
Amina Adam and Abdi Umar, residents of Gende Kusho in the Adele sub-district, shared their experience on Haramaya University Community Radio about the impact of training they received from the University. After this training, they planted Lyme grass in their fields. Remarkably, within a single season, they were able to harvest the grass five times, using it to feed their livestock. They highlighted that the grass not only provides excellent fodder for cattle but also helps maintain soil fertility for other crops.
Dr. Bobe Bedadi, a soil science researcher and project member, explained that Lyme grass has additional benefits beyond serving as animal feed. He noted that when it is planted in rows as terraces, the grass helps prevent erosion, enhances water infiltration, and remains productive for many years.
Dr. Tibebu Manaye, an expert in animal husbandry and feed, highlighted that despite ongoing efforts to improve traditional feed preparation in Hararghe, the results have often been disappointing. He emphasized that expanding the cultivation of Lyme grass presents a viable alternative since this species can be safely intercropped without overshadowing other plants. Farmers have since named this variety “Dandemeta,” which means “all-resistant,” in recognition of its resilience.
Farmers in the rural kebele of Ifa Oromia, including Khalifa Abdellah, Iftu Adam, Hamzia Mohammed, and Misro Adam, reported significant improvements after adopting Lyme grass. They observed increased milk yields, healthier beef cattle, and weight gains among donkeys, goats, and sheep. Many expressed their willingness to scale up production in the upcoming seasons.
Mr. Birhanu Midakso, a sociology lecturer at Haramaya University, emphasized that securing animal feed remains a major challenge in Ethiopia, similar to ensuring food security for humans. He noted that women in Hararghe, who bear much of the responsibility for livestock care, face considerable burdens. He expressed hope that the introduction of Lyme grass will alleviate their workload and enhance household resilience.
Mr. Dargo Kebede, a PhD candidate specializing in Rangeland and Biodiversity, is conducting research on Lyme grass with financial support from the Fund for Innovation in Development (FID) in France. Over the past year and a half, he has distributed this grass variety to more than one thousand farmers in Maya City, Kombolcha, and Kersa. He reported that the early results have been highly encouraging.
Reporter: – Sisay Wakie
Haramaya University Community Radio (FM 91.5)
Tags: Agriculture, East Africa, Ethiopia, Fodder Innovation, Food Technology, Haramaya University, Livestock Feed, Lyme Grass, Researchers, Sustainable Farming