Agoro East, Kenya – The Agoro East Tunza Punda Group recently harvested their lush Rhodes grass as part of their ongoing efforts to ensure that no animal, especially donkeys, suffers from hunger.

This milestone, achieved under the banner of STIPA Kenya NGO, highlights the group’s dedication to providing quality feed for donkeys in the region and upholding the principle of “freedom from hunger.”

Rhodes grass, known for its high nutritional value and drought resistance, has been a game-changer for the Agoro East community. Through training and support from STIPA Kenya, the Tunza Punda Group adopted the cultivation of this grass to combat the challenge of inadequate feed for working animals, particularly during dry seasons.

A Community Initiative with a Purpose

Donkeys are an integral part of livelihoods in Agoro East, serving as the primary means of transport for water, firewood, and farm produce. However, these animals often face neglect in terms of nutrition, particularly when pasture is scarce. Recognizing this challenge, the Tunza Punda Group took it upon themselves to establish communal Rhodes grass farms to secure a sustainable and accessible food source for their animals.

“This harvest is a reflection of the community’s commitment to improving the welfare of their donkeys. Through collective efforts, we’ve ensured that no donkey will go hungry, especially during the tough dry seasons,” said the group’s chairperson during the harvest celebration.

Support from STIPA Kenya

The initiative is one of several supported by STIPA Kenya, which works to empower rural communities to improve the welfare of animals and enhance livelihoods. STIPA provided technical training, seeds, and resources to help the group start their Rhodes grass farms.

According to a STIPA representative, the organization’s goal is to promote the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, with freedom from hunger being a top priority. “Donkeys are vital for the economic and social well-being of this community. Ensuring they have access to quality feed is not just about improving their health but also about sustaining the livelihoods of their owners,” the representative stated.

Impact on Donkey Welfare

The harvested Rhodes grass will be stored and distributed among members of the Tunza Punda Group, ensuring a reliable food source during periods of scarcity. This initiative has already started to show results, with healthier, more energetic donkeys observed in the community.

“Since we started feeding our donkeys with Rhodes grass, they’ve become stronger and more productive,” said one group member. “This harvest is a blessing for us and our animals.”

A Model for Other Communities

The success of the Tunza Punda Group serves as an inspiration for other communities. STIPA Kenya plans to replicate this model in other regions, encouraging more communities to take proactive steps in addressing animal welfare challenges.

Looking Ahead

With the successful harvest of Rhodes grass, the Tunza Punda Group has set a new standard for sustainable donkey care. Beyond feeding their own animals, the group envisions scaling up their efforts to sell excess Rhodes grass to neighboring communities, further promoting the importance of proper nutrition for working animals.

“Donkeys work tirelessly for us every day. It’s our responsibility to ensure they are fed and cared for. This is not just an achievement for our group, but a step toward better animal welfare across the region,” the group’s treasurer noted.