Brachiaria CV ruziziensis is an exceptional feed source for dairy cattle, significantly enhancing milk production when incorporated into their diet.
This tropical perennial grass has been established and managed by Range Management students at the Model Training Farm (MTF).
Brachiaria CV ruziziensis can reach a height of 1 to 2 meters, the root system extends up to 2 meters deep while its green leaf blades are 40 to 100 centimeters long and 2 centimeters wide.
Brachiaria CV ruziziensis commonly known as congo signal grass, has made a remarkable difference in milk production at the MTF.
At the MTF, Brachiaria CV ruziziensis is utilized in various forms to optimize milk production:
- Direct grazing: Dairy cattle graze freely on Brachiaria CV ruziziensis pastures, enjoying its nutritive value and promoting natural foraging behavior.
- Hay: Brachiaria CV ruziziensis is properly harvested and dried to produce hay, which is then fed to dairy cattle as stored forage. Hay is particularly useful during periods of limited pasture availability, such as between July to October in the Morogoro region.
- Silage: Brachiaria CV ruziziensis is ensiled to produce silage, a fermented forage feed. Silage is a valuable feed option prized for its nutritional content and long-term storage capabilities.
- Green chop: Freshly harvested Brachiaria CV ruziziensis, especially during its vegetative growth stage, is chopped and fed directly to dairy cattle, offering a highly digestible and nutritious feed option.
Brachiaria CV ruziziensis has shown high productivity, nutritional value, and adaptability to various environmental conditions. Its resilience to grazing pressure, drought, and poor soil conditions make it an invaluable asset at the MTF, highly recommended for adoption by farmers elsewhere.
For farmers and individuals eager to enhance dairy cattle production, establishing and utilizing Brachiaria CV ruziziensis is one of the best decisions in daily cattle operation as a business (micro, small, medium or large).
What you have to do is to consult Range Management professionals from the Model Training Farm to get top-notch guidance on every step by receiving personalized advice tailored to your herd size: from access to quality seeds or vegetative cuttings, establishing and managing the grass, and maximizing its potential for optimal milk production.
Partner with the MTF to pave the way for your successful transition to Brachiaria CV ruziziensis and unlock the full potential of your dairy cattle operation.
For inquiries, please contact:
Section Manager:
Name: Faridi Chamkatwa
Email: faridi.chamkatwa@sua.ac.tz
Mobile phone: +255-712-500-840
Veterinary Clinician:
Name: Winfred Ngilangwah
Email: winfred.ngilangwah@sua.ac.tz
Mobile phone: +255-764-505-418
For official communication, please contact:
Head of Department, Model Training Farm,
Sokoine University of Agriculture,
P.O. Box 3001, Chuo Kikuu, Morogoro,
Mobile phone: +255753937587
Email: newtonk78@sua.ac.tz
CC: dmtf@sua.ac.tz
