NAGRC and Destination Ankole Unveil Landmark Book on Uganda's Ankole Cattle Heritage
Uganda's National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) and Destination Ankole have launched a groundbreaking publication celebrating the rich history, cultural significance, and economic potential of Uganda's iconic Ankole Longhorn cattle. The book, titled 'Celebrating the Prestigious Ankole Cattle Heritage in Uganda', was unveiled at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, with Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze in attendance as the chief guest.
The book delves into the origins and rare breeds of Ankole cattle, renowned for their distinctive long, sweeping horns. It highlights their deep-rooted connection to the cultural identity of communities in southwestern Uganda, where they have long symbolized wealth, status, and pride. Furthermore, it explores the breed's growing economic value, including its contributions to milk and ghee production, lean beef, hides and skins, and emerging opportunities in tourism, genetic conservation, international trade, and intellectual property protection.
"As Uganda embraces agro-industrialization and tourism diversification, the Ankole Longhorn stands out as a unique asset that seamlessly blends culture, science, and business," Tumwebaze remarked at the event, advocating for stronger protection of indigenous breeds alongside modern livestock development. The book, authored by Dr. Peter Beine, Edmand Aryampika, Winnie Nduhukire, and others, has received high-level endorsement from President Yoweri Museveni, who penned and personally signed the foreword.
Museveni hailed the publication as an "international milestone," positioning Uganda as a global reference point for Ankole cattle genetics and heritage. NAGRC&DB emphasized that the book also documents government-led conservation efforts since 2003, including the establishment of Nshaara Ranch in Kiruhura District as the National Ankole Longhorn Cattle Conservatory Centre. These initiatives have played a crucial role in conserving and multiplying purebred Ankole cattle, attracting interest from breeders, researchers, and investors worldwide.
Destination Ankole highlighted the breed's role in cultural tourism, with Ankole cattle increasingly featured in heritage trails, ranch tourism, and branding initiatives aimed at promoting Uganda's western region. "This is more than a book launch," NAGRC&DB stated. "It is a call to action to preserve genetic purity, promote sustainable use, and safeguard a living symbol of Uganda's cultural heritage for future generations."
The event took place on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala.
