The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, has launched a landmark publication positioning Ankole Longhorn cattle as a strategic national asset for agro-industrialisation, tourism diversification, and genetic conservation.
The book, titled “Celebrating the Prestigious Ankole Cattle Heritage in Uganda,” was unveiled on December 17, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel Kampala by the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) in partnership with Destination Ankole.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Minister Tumwebaze described Ankole cattle as a unique blend of culture, science, and business, noting that the indigenous breed holds immense potential beyond its traditional cultural symbolism.
“Ankole cattle are not just animals; they are a living heritage that represents Uganda’s identity, history, and economic opportunity. We must protect their genetic purity while unlocking their full potential for agribusiness, tourism, and value addition,” Tumwebaze said.
The publication documents the rich history, rare races, and cultural significance of the Ankole Longhorn cattle, whose iconic long horns have for centuries symbolised wealth, pride, and social status, particularly in western Uganda. It also highlights the breed’s growing contribution to tourism, especially in the Ankole region, where cattle culture has become an attraction in its own right.
According to NAGRC&DB, the book also explores the economic value of Ankole cattle, including production of milk, ghee, lean beef, hides, and skins, as well as emerging opportunities in genetic conservation, international trade, and intellectual property protection.
“This publication shows that Ankole cattle are not only culturally significant but also commercially viable,” NAGRC&DB said in a statement. “They are a powerful driver for tourism development, agro-industrialisation, and sustainable livestock production.”
As the mandated government agency under the Animal Breeding Act, NAGRC&DB has since 2003 led national efforts to conserve, improve, and multiply purebred Ankole cattle. The Nshaara Ranch in Kiruhura District serves as the National Ankole Longhorn Cattle Conservatory Centre, anchoring Uganda’s conservation and breeding programme.
These efforts, officials say, have positioned Uganda as a global reference point for Ankole cattle genetics, attracting growing interest from international markets and researchers.
“The world is watching what Uganda is doing with Ankole cattle genetics. This breed gives us a competitive advantage if we manage it well,” Tumwebaze noted.
Beyond celebrating heritage, the book launch was framed as a call to action—urging stakeholders to preserve genetic purity, promote sustainable use, expand tourism products, and unlock business opportunities linked to the breed.
“Safeguarding Ankole cattle is about protecting a living symbol of Uganda’s heritage while creating wealth for current and future generations,” NAGRC&DB emphasised.
The publication is expected to serve as both a cultural record and an investment guide, reinforcing the role of indigenous livestock in Uganda’s broader development agenda.
