This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
Published on September 3, 2019, a study on forage seed production in Uganda has revealed promising results, but its potential remains untapped due to seed companies' reluctance to take up the research.
The study, conducted under the East African Agricultural Productivity Project, a World Bank-funded initiative, found that Uganda can convert silage into livestock feeds and generate revenue. However, seed companies are hesitant to invest in animal feed, citing low demand.
"The seed companies do not want to take up animal feed in their businesses, because the demand has not been so vibrant," said Dr. Zuena Nantongo, a livestock breeding scientist at the National Livestock Research Resources Institute.
Despite the challenges, the research highlights the importance of livestock nutrition in building a competitive livestock industry. Proper nutrition and sufficient feed quantity are crucial for the growth and size of livestock, particularly for beef and milk production.
Uganda's livestock sector faces significant challenges, including seed companies' reluctance to take up research products and farmers' traditional grazing practices. The country's smallholder farmers own about 90% of the livestock, which are primarily raised on pasture or agro-pastoral systems in range lands.
The local Zebu breed, for instance, takes up to six years to reach 250kg slaughter weight, whereas the market requires tender beef from animals that are two years old. Clearly, additional feed is needed to improve the nutritional value of the livestock.
