The National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) and Destination Ankole have teamed up to release a groundbreaking book about one of Uganda’s most famous native breeds.
The book, called “Celebrating the Prestigious Ankole Cattle Heritage in Uganda,” was launched on December 18 at the Sheraton Kampala hotel. The minister of Agriculture, Frank Tumwebaze, was the main guest.
The book, authored by NAGRC&DB executive director Dr Peter Beine along with Edmand Aryampika, Winnie Nduhukire, and other contributors, records the Ankole Longhorn cattle’s history, cultural importance and huge economic potential.
It notes that for hundreds of years, these animals have been a sign of wealth and cultural identity in Uganda. Now, more and more people see them as a big reason for tourism, agribusiness and genetic conservation.
“This book is more than just a history book; it’s a strategic roadmap. It links our rich cultural history to real economic opportunities, showing how the Ankole cow can be a foundation for long-term growth, from the pastures of Ankole to global markets,” said Beine.
The book further talks about the breed’s unique physical features, especially its beautiful horns, and how important it is to the culture. It also talks about how it is becoming more important to tourism in the Ankole region and how it can be used in a variety of ways for business, such as making milk, ghee, lean beef and hides, among others.
The book also talks about new chances in genetic conservation, intellectual property and trade around the world. In the foreword, President Museveni praises the book for being an international milestone that will help farmers appreciate special qualities of Ankole cattle.
“The Ankole cow (the Sanga breed) is unique and unequalled. It has got yellow fat as opposed to the ubiquitous white fat of other cattle that is cholesterol laden. It also has more cream in its milk than the other cattle. Some of the Ankole cattle are high milkers as opposed to the lies of the colonial agents,” Museveni notes.
Since 2003, NAGRC&DB has been in charge of national efforts to protect and improve purebred Ankole cattle. The National Ankole Longhorn Cattle Conservatory Centre is located at Nshaara ranch in Kiruhura district.
This work has made Uganda a world leader in Ankole genetics, which has drawn a lot of attention from around the world. All in all, the book calls for the protection of the breed’s genetic purity, encourage its long-term use, unlock its full potential for tourism and busines, and protect this living symbol of Ugandan heritage for future generations.
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