Kenya - Business creation project

Décrivez votre projet en quelques mots

Production of Juncao Grass is the best alternative solution to naturally but limited livestock fodder to feed different kinds of animals kept in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands which covers approximately 89% of Kenya and is home to 38% of its overall population.

01.01 Décrivez votre projet en détail

Following the extensive drought that was experienced in 2023, Kenya lost 2.5 million head of livestock and 6,093 wildlife including elephants, Maasai giraffe, and wildebeests. This encounter risked loosing the 12% of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product earned from ASALs. For the longest time these areas have been viewed as being unproductive especially from the drought and poverty rampant in the area. However, these areas have great economic potential which have yet to be fully realized. It can especially achieve full potential in tourism, livestock production and the renewable energy sector. Juncao with its tall stem, wide adaptability, fast growth and high crude protein content can be a favorite live-stock feed to feed different kinds of animals kept in Kenya. Therefore, this technology will contribute to stabilize food production and domestic food price and ensure livestock fodder availability and capital generation for farmers who grow it for sale.

01.02 Quel est le problème principal que vous essayez de résoudre ?

Kenya has two rain season November/ December and April/May sandwiched by two dry seasons. However, the August/ September season dry season is severe and most regions especially ASALs run out of green feed, the cattle and sheep rapidly loss weight and farmers eventually sell them at a lower price, suffering a loss. The feed shortage in the dry season hamper development projects aimed at improving the country's livestock breeding industry in these areas where the main source of livelihoods is agro-pastoralism, mixed farming and irrigated cropping. For this reason, incorporating Juncao grass production will contribute to stabilize food production and domestic food price and ensure livestock fodder availability. Also, farmers will be in a position to evade food insecurity, high poverty levels, adverse effects resulting from aridity and rainfall variability as well as high vulnerability to shocks and hazards as projected by International Planning Committee for Food Sovereignty (IPC)& FAO.

01.03 Dites-nous quels sont les principaux avantages et/ou bénéfices de l'utilisation du produit/service que vous souhaitez fournir par votre projet (au moins 3).

Juncao grass is a perennial and hybrid grass that is a multifunctional agricultural resource. The crops’ advantages include; 1. Soil erosion control in the already badly degraded soils in ASALs due to inadequate land cover. 2. Ensure high quantity and quality of Livestock fodder to sustain livestock in ASALs and other regions, 3. Help in the fight against desertification and land degradation. 4. Also, Juncao grass is especially useful to pastoralists who face the challenge of substandard and insufficient grass for their livestock. The grass contains 15.7% crude protein and is rich in micro elements which could vastly increase milk production as well as improve milk quality. 5. Unlike other grass types Juncao depends on both rain and irrigation which proves advantageous in Arid and Semi-arid lands (ASALs) as it could still be harvested even during drought. This makes Juncao grass a sustainable fodder option. 6. Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly: Juncao Grass is perennial crop.

01.04 Veuillez décrire précisément à qui s'adressera le produit/service de votre projet. Quels sont les bénéficiaires visés ?

1. Livestock Farmers: Juncao grass can be grown to provide a sustainable source of high-quality forage for livestock such as cattle, goats, and sheep in ASAL areas where natural pasture is limited. 2. Smallholder Farmers: Small-scale farmers in ASAL regions. 3. Environmental Conservationists: to mitigate land degradation and desertification. 4. Government Agencies: to improve food security, enhance livestock productivity, and conserve natural resources in ASAL regions. 5. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs working on agricultural development, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability may also support the growth of Juncao grass in ASALs through capacity building, training programs, and provision of seeds and other resources. 6.Research Institutions: Research institutions and agricultural extension services can play a key role in promoting providing technical assistance, conducting trials to adapt the grass to local conditions, and disseminating best practices.

01.05 Quand avez-vous commencé à travailler sur votre projet ?

01/01/2024

01.06 Combien y a-t-il de propriétaires sur votre projet en plus de vous ?

1

01.07 Parmi les autres propriétaires, combien sont des femmes ?

1

01.08 Veuillez décrire le profil des autres propriétaires de votre projet (compétences, expérience, etc.).

Sole proprietor Erick Mutuku Kyalo Ambitious agronomist with robust analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and address complex issues in crop production and soil health. History of reliable performance and understanding of crop science, soil science, and agricultural economics, with the ability to apply this knowledge and solve real-world problems. Professional Experience 1. Ongoing Internship Programme Under Public Service Commission at TARDA (Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority) as from 2024 April. 2. Entrepreneurial Operations between 2019 and 2023. 3.Attachment at Kenya Horticultural Exporters (Ontilili River Farm) 2018. Certifications A fourth year project. TITLE: BOTANICAL AND BIOLOGICAL CONTROL MEASURES FOR THRIPS CONTROL IN FRENCH BEANS (Chuka). BY: ERICK MUTUKU KYALO ESTHER GATHONI KARANJA STEPHEN BUTALIA MORARA ANGELINAH MBITHE KANYAI BEATRICE WANJIRU KIMANI GRIVIAN BONARERI MUSA It was submitted to Department of Plant Science, Chuka Uni.

01.09 Si vous avez un site web, une page sur les médias sociaux (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin...) ou une application, veuillez fournir le(s) lien(s) ici :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erick-kyalo-405a21238/

01.10 Quel est le secteur d'activité qui décrit le mieux votre projet ?

l) Agriculture

02.01.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Pas de pauvreté'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.01.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

1.Livelihood Diversification: For communities heavily reliant on livestock farming in ASAL regions, Juncao grass offers an additional income stream. 2.Increased Livestock Productivity: Juncao grass is highly nutritious and can improve the health and productivity of livestock. 3.Cost Savings: In ASAL areas where natural pasture is limited and feed costs are high, Juncao grass cultivation can help farmers save money on supplementary feeding. 4.Soil Conservation and Rehabilitation:By cultivating Juncao grass in degraded or marginal lands, farmers can rehabilitate the soil, increase its fertility, and restore ecosystem services. This can lead to increased agricultural productivity over the long term, supporting sustainable livelihoods. 5.Capacity Building and Empowerment:By equipping farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to cultivate, harvest, and utilize Juncao effectively, development initiatives empower individuals and communities. 6. Food security reduce hunger & malnutrition.

02.02.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Faim Zéro'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.02.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

1. Resilience to Climate Change: Juncao is well-suited to these challenging environments, as it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal water and inputs to grow. By cultivating Juncao grass as a resilient feed crop, farmers can mitigate the effects of climate change on food production and ensure a more reliable food supply for their communities. 2.Diversification of Food Sources: By enhancing livestock productivity, farmers can increase the availability of these nutritious foods, diversifying diets and reducing the risk of hunger and malnutrition. 3.Livestock Feed Security: In ASAL regions where natural pasture is limited and droughts are common, Juncao grass provides a reliable and nutritious source of fodder for livestock, helping to sustain their health and productivity even during periods of environmental stress. 4.Improvement of Livelihoods: Cultivation of Juncao can increase household incomes and purchasing power, enabling families to afford a more diverse and nutritious diet.

02.03.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Bonne Santé et Bien Être'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.03.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

1.Access to Animal Source Foods: Livestock products such as meat, milk, and eggs are important sources of protein and micronutrients in many rural communities. 2.Nutritious Livestock Feed: Juncao grass is highly nutritious and provides essential vitamins, minerals, and protein for livestock. 3.Environmental Benefits: Juncao grass cultivation promotes sustainable land management practices, such as soil conservation and erosion control, which contribute to environmental health and ecosystem resilience. 4.Community Empowerment: Juncao grass production initiatives often involve capacity-building activities, training programs, and community participation, which empower individuals and communities to take control of their own health and wellbeing. 5.Enhanced Livelihoods: Adequate access to food and improved economic stability are fundamental determinants of good health and wellbeing, as they enable individuals to meet their nutritional needs, access healthcare services, and invest.

02.04.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Éducaiton de Qualité'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.04.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

1.Agricultural Education and Training: By introducing farmers to new agricultural techniques, such as sustainable forage production and soil conservation practices, empowering them to improve their farming practices and livelihoods. 2.Vocational Skills Development: Participating in Juncao grass production projects can help individuals develop valuable vocational, hence provide pathways to employment and entrepreneurship, contributing to the socioeconomic development of ASAL communities. 3.School Feeding Programs: Juncao is a nutritious feed source for livestock raised in school feeding programs. By incorporating locally produced forage into school meals, educational institutions can improve the nutritional quality of students' diets, enhance their overall health and wellbeing, and support their cognitive development and academic performance. 4.Research and Innovation. 5.Access to Information and Technology: informed about cultivation, market opportunities, sustainable farming practices

02.05.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Égalité entre les Sexes'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.05.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

1.Access to Education and Information: Juncao grass projects often include educational components that provide women with access to information, training, and technology related to agricultural production, environmental conservation, and sustainable livelihoods. 2.Health and Nutrition: Juncao grass cultivation can improve the health and nutrition of women and their families by providing a sustainable source of nutritious fodder for livestock. 3.Community Leadership: Juncao grass initiatives can empower women to take on leadership roles and participate more actively in community decision-making processes. 4.Skill Development: Participating in Juncao grass production projects allows women to acquire valuable agricultural skills and knowledge, as well as vocational training in areas such as livestock management, agribusiness, and entrepreneurship. 5.Income Generation: Women can engage in various aspects of Juncao cultivation, including planting, harvesting, processing, and marketing.

02.06.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Eau Propre et Assainissement'

4

02.06.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production supports clean water and sanitation by promoting sustainable land management practices that reduce soil erosion, prevent water pollution, and enhance water quality. The deep root system of Juncao grass helps to stabilize soil, preventing runoff and sedimentation of water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and streams. By minimizing soil erosion, Juncao grass cultivation reduces the transport of pollutants such as sediment, nutrients, and agrochemicals into water sources, thereby protecting water quality and ecosystem health. Additionally, Juncao grass projects can be integrated with riparian buffer zones and wetland restoration efforts, which further contribute to water filtration and purification. By promoting responsible land stewardship and ecosystem conservation, Juncao grass production supports the provision of clean water and sanitation services, aligning with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 6.

02.07.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Énergie Propre et Abordable'

6

02.07.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production contributes to affordable and clean energy by providing biomass that can be used as a renewable energy source. The fast-growing nature of Juncao grass makes it an ideal candidate for biomass energy production through processes such as anaerobic digestion or biomass gasification. By converting Juncao grass into biogas, bioethanol, or solid biofuels, communities can access affordable and clean energy alternatives for cooking, heating, and electricity generation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, Juncao grass cultivation can enhance carbon sequestration and soil carbon storage, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts and promoting environmental sustainability. By supporting the development and adoption of renewable energy technologies, Juncao grass production aligns with the goals of Sustainable Development Goal 7.

02.08.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Travail Décent et Croissance Économique'

5

02.08.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production supports decent work and economic growth by creating employment opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing agricultural productivity in rural communities. By cultivating Juncao grass, farmers can generate income through the production and sale of high-quality fodder for livestock, diversifying their sources of revenue and improving livelihoods. Additionally, Juncao grass projects often involve value chain development activities, such as processing, marketing, and distribution, which create job opportunities along the agricultural supply chain. Furthermore, Juncao grass cultivation can increase agricultural productivity and resilience, enabling farmers to improve yields, expand production, and access new markets, thereby stimulating economic growth and prosperity in rural areas.

02.09.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Industrie, Innovaiton et Infrastructure'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.09.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production drives industry innovation and infrastructure development by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and fostering the adoption of innovative technologies in rural areas. By introducing Juncao grass cultivation techniques, projects stimulate agricultural innovation, encouraging farmers to adopt new methods for soil conservation, water management, and livestock feed production. Additionally, Juncao grass projects often involve the establishment of infrastructure such as demonstration farms, training centers, and processing facilities, which provide essential support for technology transfer, capacity building, and market development. These investments in infrastructure not only enhance the productivity and resilience of agricultural systems but also create opportunities for value addition, job creation, and economic diversification in rural communities.

02.10.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Réduction des Inégalités'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.10.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao production supports reduced inequalities by providing marginalized communities, including smallholder farmers and rural populations, with access to sustainable livelihood opportunities and resources. By promoting inclusive development models, Juncao projects empower vulnerable groups, such as women, youth, and indigenous peoples, to participate in agricultural value chains and income-generating activities. Additionally, Juncao cultivation can enhance food security and nutrition in underserved communities, reducing disparities in access to nutritious food and improving overall wellbeing. Through capacity building, knowledge sharing, and community engagement initiatives, Juncao production fosters social inclusion, empowers marginalized groups, and reduces the wealth gap between urban and rural populations. By addressing inequalities in access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making processes, Juncao production contributes to more equitable developmental outcomes.

02.11.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Villes et Communautés Durables'

6

02.11.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production supports sustainable cities and communities by providing a renewable source of nutritious fodder for livestock, promoting food security, and enhancing urban-rural linkages. By cultivating Juncao grass in rural areas, farmers can produce high-quality feed locally, reducing the need for long-distance transportation of feedstocks and decreasing carbon emissions associated with livestock production. Additionally, Juncao grass cultivation can generate income and employment opportunities for rural communities, contributing to poverty alleviation and economic development. Moreover, Juncao grass projects can foster knowledge exchange, capacity building, and community empowerment, strengthening social cohesion and resilience in both rural and urban settings. By promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing food systems, and fostering inclusive development, Juncao production contributes to the creation of more sustainable, resilient, and livable cities and communities.

02.12.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Consommation et Production Responsable'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.12.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao production promotes responsible consumption and production by fostering sustainable agricultural practices, minimizing resource use, and reducing environmental impacts throughout the production process. By cultivating Juncao, farmers can produce high-quality fodder for livestock using fewer inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides compared to conventional forage crops. This promotes efficient resource utilization and reduces the environmental footprint of livestock farming, contributing to more sustainable production systems. Furthermore, Juncao cultivation can help diversify agricultural production and reduce reliance on resource-intensive crops, thereby promoting crop diversification and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Additionally, Juncao production encourages the adoption of eco-friendly farming methods that prioritize soil health, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem resilience, aligning with principles of sustainable agriculture.

02.13.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Luttle contre les Changements Climatiques'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.13.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production supports climate action by sequestering carbon, enhancing soil health, and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in several ways. As a fast-growing perennial grass, Juncao grass captures and stores carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, thereby helping to offset carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. Additionally, Juncao grass's deep root system improves soil structure, increases soil organic matter, and enhances water retention, contributing to climate resilience and ecosystem stability. By promoting sustainable land management practices and reducing deforestation and land degradation, Juncao grass production helps preserve natural carbon sinks and minimize carbon loss from terrestrial ecosystems. Furthermore, Juncao grass cultivation can serve as a low-carbon alternative to traditional land uses such as livestock grazing or monocrop agriculture, which are often associated with higher greenhouse gas emissions.

02.14.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Vie Sous-Marine'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.14.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production indirectly supports life below water by promoting sustainable land management practices that reduce land-based pollution and protect aquatic ecosystems. By preventing soil erosion, improving water quality, enhancing riparian zones, reducing habitat degradation, and promoting sustainable agriculture, Juncao grass cultivation contributes to the conservation and preservation of marine and freshwater habitats. Through its interconnectedness with terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, Juncao grass production helps maintain the health and biodiversity of life below water, ensuring the resilience and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

02.15.01 Mon projetp contribue à l'objectif 'Vie Terrestre'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.15.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao production supports life on land by promoting sustainable land manageme nt practices, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration in (ASALs) and other environmentally sensitive areas. Through its deep root system and rapid growth, Juncao helps stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and improve soil fertility, thereby reducing land degradation and desertification. By replacing unsustainable land use practices such as overgrazing or deforestation, Juncao cultivation restores degraded landscapes, enhances habitat quality, and promotes the recovery of native vegetation and wildlife populations. Furthermore, Juncao grass provides valuable ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, water infiltration, and nutrient cycling, which contribute to the resilience and productivity of terrestrial ecosystems. By integrating Juncao into agroforestry systems, reforestation projects, and land rehabilitation initiatives, communities can enhance biodiversity, mitigate climate change.

02.16.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Paix, Justice et Institutions Efficaces'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.16.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao production supports peace, justice, and strong institutions and sustainable development that promote social cohesion, conflict resolution, and governance effectiveness. By engaging diverse stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector actors, Juncao grass initiatives facilitate dialogue, collaboration, and consensus-building around shared goals related to poverty reduction, food security, and environmental sustainability. These partnerships strengthen institutional capacities, enhance transparency, accountability, and rule of law, and promote equitable access to resources and opportunities, thereby contributing to peaceful and inclusive societies. By empowering marginalized groups, promoting inclusive decision-making processes, and addressing root causes of conflict and instability it helps build resilient communities, strengthen social fabric

02.17.01 Mon projet contribue à l'objectif 'Parteneriats pour la Réalisation des Objectifs'

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

02.17.02 Justification de la contribution de mon projet

Juncao grass production facilitates partnerships for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, local communities, and the private sector. These partnerships enable knowledge sharing, resource mobilization, policy advocacy, market development, and monitoring and evaluation efforts to promote sustainable agriculture, poverty alleviation, and environmental conservation. By working together towards common goals, partners can leverage synergies, overcome challenges, and achieve greater impact in addressing complex development issues, ultimately contributing to the realization of the SDGs and the wellbeing of communities in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) and beyond.

05.01 Il existe un grand nombre de clients qui utilisent déjà un produit/service très similaire à celui que nous envisageons de créer.

1 - Pas du tout d'accord

05.02 Le produit/service que nous voulons créer représente un type de produit/service entièrement nouveau

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

05.03 Le produit/service que nous voulons créer pourrait être décrit comme une nouvelle technologie

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

05.04 Le produit/service que nous voulons créer est une amélioration d'un produit ou d'un service existant

4

05.05 Le produit/service que nous voulons créer pourrait être décrit comme une extension d'une gamme de produits ou de services

5

05.06 Le produit/service que nous voulons créer répond à une demande ou à un besoin qui n'a pas été satisfait par d'autres produits/services.

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

05.07 Le produit/service que nous voulons créer est une nouvelle version d'un ancien produit/service

4

05.08 Justification de mon projet

Although there exists numerous types of fodder for livestock across Kenya, Juncao grass is a perennial and hybrid grass that is a multifunctional agricultural resource. The crops’ functions include; soil erosion control, livestock fodder, and desertification and degradation control and serves as a mushroom growing substrate. The grass is especially useful to pastoralists who face the challenge of substandard and insufficient grass for their livestock. The grass contains 15.7% crude protein and is rich in micro elements which could vastly increase milk production as well as improve milk quality. Unlike other grass types Juncao depends on both rain and irrigation which proves advantageous in Arid and Semi-arid lands (ASALs) as it could still be harvested even during drought. This makes Juncao grass a sustainable fodder option.

05.09 Qui sont vos principaux potentiels concurrents et qu'est-ce qui vous différencie d'eux ?

In Kenya, Juncao grass production may not have direct competitors in the traditional sense, as it is a relatively unique and specialized agricultural endeavor. However, there are other forage crops and agricultural practices that could be considered alternative options for farmers in similar contexts. Here are some potential competitors or alternatives: Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) Sudan Grass (Sorghum sudanense) Drought-resistant Legumes (e.g., cowpeas, lablab, desmodium) Agroforestry Systems Silage and Hay Production While these alternatives may compete with Juncao grass to some extent, it's essential to recognize that each option has its unique characteristics, benefits, and limitations. Farmers should consider factors such as agroecological conditions, livestock nutritional needs, water availability, and market demand when selecting the most suitable forage crops and production systems for their specific circumstances.

10.06 Menez-vous des actions au sein de votre communauté pour promouvoir le rôle des femmes entrepreneurs ?

After school coaching to help sharpen their understanding when it comes to sciences such as Biology, Agriculture, and Chemistry. Help develop the skill of script writing for drama festivals at high school and college levels. Help train guitar playing at amateur's levels.