Starting in October we received short rains, though the farm is beginning to dry out as is customary for this time of the year, while this puts pressure on our grazing, it is an essential part of the natural cyclical rhythm of the farming calendar.
The resident elephant departed in November after having consumed a large portion of maize and sorghum crops intended for silage production for drought time cattle feed. Whenever he departs KWS are informed and they are able to ensure he reaches other protected areas safely.
Crops
This quarter we have harvested Rhodes grass seed and beans, which will now be prepared and packed for sale for the 2021 growing season.
The Rhodes grass has also been used to produce hay and 270 tonnes of silage. The hay is for sale (click here for more information) while the silage is to be used as cattle feed during the upcoming dry season.
Cows
This quarter we conducted our first delivery of beef cattle to Choice Meat. This is the beginning of a new partnership that we hope will enable us to get meat from farm to market as quickly and efficiently as possible, while also minimizing distress for the animals.
Our December calvings set a new high record.
Looking Forward
Our priorities include improving water security through water harvesting infrastructure, this is key for rain fed agriculture and cattle production.
Leldet is also a founding member of the Kenya Bean Consortium. The aim of which is to fast track the introduction of bush and climbing bean varieties for commercial release into the local seed market by using a new seed harmonization agreement. If initial trials are successful, new varieties could be available by 2022, these have huge promise given the popularity of similar varieties in other east african countries.
As we increase our drought resiliency through stored feeds such as silage, we will increase the acreage under Leldet’s hugely successful E6518 forage sorghum. This and other feeds will form the basis of increased efficiency in our beef cattle production.
As always, investments in farm equipment and infrastructure for increased effectiveness and efficiency are on the horizon. These may be financed by newly subdivided plots to the east of the main farm, interest in these plots has grown exponentially over the course of 2020 – please click here for more information.
Covid continues to influence our operations, though by maintaining discipline in sanitation, mask wearing and social distancing we have been able to keep our team safe while staying productive.
We are looking to the new year with hope for a prosperous and happy 2021 for all.
Stay Safe and Happy New Year 2021!
Rajwera Farm 