Pastures are the supermarket for livestock. Their condition directly determines whether a ranch succeeds or fails. Managing them well is the secret weapon of every successful rancher.
Key Elements of Pasture Management
- Stocking Rate Control: Match the number of animals to grass capacity. Overgrazing depletes land; under-grazing wastes resources.
- Weed & Pest Management: Regular slashing, controlled burning, or selective herbicides keep invasive species in check.
- Re-seeding: Introduce improved grasses like Brachiaria or Chloris gayana to rejuvenate worn land.
- Fertilization & Manure Management: Balance organic and inorganic inputs.
Ugandan Ranching Realities
In Uganda’s cattle corridor, drought is common. Poorly managed pastures degrade into bare land quickly. Kisombwa Ranch rotates grazing, fertilizes with organic manure, and invests in reseeding to maintain productivity.
Economic Impact
Healthy pastures reduce feed costs, improve weight gain, and make animals market-ready faster.
Conclusion
Pastures are the lifeline of livestock. At Kisombwa, careful management ensures sustainability, profitability, and resilience in the face of changing climates.
