The Horn Development Advisory Fodder Pilot Programme

In a significant stride towards bolstering local businesses and addressing critical agricultural challenges, the Horn Development Advisory (HDA) has launched a pioneering pilot programme. This initiative seeks to support local businesses in Somalia by enhancing their fodder production capabilities.

Somalia has long faced substantial shortages in fodder production, particularly acute during the dry season. This scarcity severely impacts the development of the livestock sector, which serves as the backbone of the country's economy. Livestock not only provides a vital source of income for many Somali families but also plays a crucial role in cultural and social practices. However, the frequent fodder shortages hinder the productivity and sustainability of this sector, causing economic instability and food insecurity.

​

HDA Fodder Pilot Pogramme

Given the urgent need to address these challenges, HDA has developed a pilot programme to provide targeted support to local businesses. The programme's primary focus is on imparting training and coaching aimed at equipping local entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to produce climate-resilient fodder crops. By doing so, it aims to remove existing blockages in the fodder production value chain, thereby fostering sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth.

The pilot programme has encompassed several key components, each integral to the success of fodder production:

​​

• Training Materials and Coaching: The programme offers comprehensive training materials and coaching sessions that cover a wide range of topics. These include the selection of appropriate farm equipment and inputs, as well as best practices for cultivating fodder crops in the local context.

• Expertise and Support: By leveraging the expertise of agricultural specialists, the programme provides ongoing support to local businesses. This includes guidance on modern farming techniques and strategies for enhancing crop resilience to climate variability.

• Climate-Resilient Crops: A significant focus is placed on helping local businesses grow climate-resilient fodder crops. These crops are better suited to withstand the harsh weather conditions typical of Somalia, particularly during dry spells.

 

Success Story: SomGarden in Lower Shabelle

A shining example of the pilot programme's success is SomGarden, a local livestock business based in Lower Shabelle. SomGarden participated in the programme to test the cultivation of Mulato II grass, a fodder crop known for its high nutritional value and resilience. The goal was to evaluate its performance under local conditions and determine its viability for widespread cultivation.

SomGarden has made remarkable strides since joining the programme. To date, they have successfully produced 15 hectares of Mulato II grass. This achievement was made possible with the support of HDA, which trained SomGarden on fodder production techniques as well as procuring the necessary inputs and machinery for harvesting the fodder.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

The cultivation and testing of Mulato II grass in Lower Shabelle by HDA Fodder Programme in partnership with SomGarden

 

​The impact of SomGarden's success extends beyond their own operations. They have started supplying businesses in the outskirts of Mogadishu with high-quality fodder, meeting a critical need in the livestock sector value chain. This supply not only supports the growth and health of livestock in the region but also contributes to the economic stability of other local businesses that rely on consistent fodder availability.

 

 

 

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

​

​

 

The harvesting and transport to local markets on the outskirts of the capital city of Somalia, Mogadishu by SomGarden

 

Give their success, SomGarden now plans to expand their cultivation efforts significantly. They aim to cultivate an additional 50 hectares of their farm with fodder crops, scaling up their operations to meet the growing demand. This expansion is a testament to the effectiveness of the training and support provided by the HDA pilot programme.

​

Establishing a Technical Training School

Building on the positive outcomes of the pilot programme, HDA is collaborating with SomGarden to establish a Fodder Production Technical Training School on their farm. This school aims to disseminate best practices and innovative techniques to other businesses in Somalia. The curriculum will cover a comprehensive range of topics, including:

​

• Selection of Fodder Species: Instruction on choosing the right fodder species based on environmental and climatic conditions.

• Contour Seeding: Techniques for contour seeding to optimize water retention and soil health.

• Multiplication of Fodder Species: Methods for propagating fodder species to ensure a sustainable supply.

• Crop Maintenance: Best practices for maintaining healthy and productive fodder crops.

• Harvesting Techniques: Efficient and effective harvesting methods to maximize yield and quality.

• Soil Nutrient Management: Utilizing organic waste and crop residues to maintain and enhance soil fertility.

 

Local Demand and Future Prospects

The pilot programme has demonstrated a robust local demand for improved fodder production practices. Businesses and pastoralists in the local area have expressed keen interest in learning from SomGarden's experience and adopting similar practices. This enthusiasm underscores the potential for the programme to drive widespread positive change in the agricultural sector across Somalia.

​

The pilot programme has demonstrated how the fodder production challenges in Somalia can be addressed. By providing targeted training and support, it has empowered local businesses like SomGarden to enhance their production capabilities and contribute to the economic stability of the region. Partnering with the private sector has enhanced the programme's sustainability by leveraging additional resources, expertise, and innovation, thereby ensuring long-term success and broader impact. As the programme continues to evolve, it holds the promise of transforming the agricultural landscape in Somalia, fostering sustainable growth and resilience in the face of climate variability.

​

Over the coming year, we will be scaling up the programme and catalyse the growth of fodder production businesses in Somalia, and increase the resilience of the livestock sector.