This policy brief examines hydroponic fodder as a climate-smart solution to address livestock feed shortages and strengthen dairy productivity in Eastern Rwanda. Based on a UNDP pilot project, the study shows that hydroponic systems provide year-round, nutritious fodder using minimal water and land, increasing milk yields and improving farmer incomes. 

Cooperative models demonstrated strong economic returns, though adoption is constrained by high upfront costs, input availability, and technical capacity gaps. The brief recommends expanding access to finance, strengthening input supply chains, building technical skills, and integrating hydroponics into national agricultural and climate strategies to scale sustainable dairy production and enhance rural livelihoods.