African farmers and agricultural experts are hailing the transformative potential of Juncao technology, a Chinese innovation reshaping food production, livestock feeding, and environmental protection across the continent.
Originally developed in China as a hybrid grass for mushroom cultivation, Juncao has emerged as a powerful tool for tackling food insecurity, boosting rural incomes, and offering sustainable alternatives amid climate challenges.
Innocent Shayamano, chief agriculture extension specialist from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, described Juncao’s impact as “life-changing,” aligning with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 to improve rural household livelihoods.
Speaking at a July 16–23 workshop in Huye District, Rwanda, co-hosted by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Rwanda’s Ministry of Agriculture, and Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Shayamano highlighted Juncao’s high productivity—yielding over 200 tonnes per hectare—and its critical role in replacing expensive, scarce cotton waste traditionally used for mushroom farming.
“Climate change is drying up livestock feed supplies. Juncao offers a timely, cost-effective solution. We aim to scale this technology to benefit more farming communities,” he said. Zimbabwean farmers attending the workshop are set to return as lead trainers to champion wider adoption.
The workshop gathered agricultural officers, educators, and farmers from across Africa to deepen expertise in Juncao-based mushroom cultivation, livestock fodder, and soil conservation.
First-time participant Abbas Ahmad Umar, a Nigerian farmer, praised Juncao as a “grass of grace,” citing its multiple uses in boosting food security, reducing poverty, and empowering women and youth.
“Mushroom farming has many benefits. I’m eager to share this knowledge back home and train others,” Umar added.
With more African countries like Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria embracing Juncao, experts believe the technology could drive sustainable farming practices and unlock new income streams for rural communities continent-wide.
