Diversity of Natural Pastures and Their Contribution to Sustainable Livestock Systems in Kenya

Abstract

Natural pastures are integral to livestock production in Kenya and remain the primary feed source for grazing animals nationwide. Kenya has extensive and diverse natural grazing ecosystems that support cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and wildlife across pastoral and mixed farming systems. These pasture resources are especially important in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), which cover about 80% of Kenya's total land area. Productivity, palatability, drought tolerance, and nutritional composition of pasture species vary, influencing animal performance and the sustainability of grazing systems. Natural pastures in Kenya are increasingly threatened by invasive species, overgrazing, climate change, land fragmentation, and unsustainable land-use practices, despite their ecological and economic significance. In many areas, these issues have led to reduced cattle performance, declining forage production, and rangeland degradation.  Enhancing feed security, sustaining rural livelihoods, and bolstering Kenya's resistance to environmental change and climate variability all depend on the sustainable use and preservation of natural pasture ecosystems. However, there is little synthesised information on the diversity, distribution and management of natural pastures in Kenya. This study is based on a review of the literature, scientific articles and government reports on rangeland systems. Kenya’s livestock sector is highly dependent on natural pastures, and thus their sustainable management is critical for food security and rural livelihoods. The study underscores the need for improved rangeland management, invasive species control and climate-smart pasture interventions.