agriculture 17 June 2026 State House (Uganda)
Museveni Backs Regional Farm Service Centre Initiative to Combat Counterfeit Inputs
President Museveni has praised a proposed Regional Farm Service Centre Initiative designed to tackle agricultural sector issues in Uganda, particularly the proliferation of fake agro-inputs. The initiative, involving South African partners, also aims to enhance Ankole cattle genetics for export. Source: https://statehouse.go.ug/president-museveni-applauds-proposed-regional-farm-service-centre-initiative
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has lauded a new proposal for a Regional Farm Service Centre Initiative, identified as a crucial step in addressing significant challenges within Uganda’s agricultural landscape. A primary focus of this initiative is the escalating problem of counterfeit agro-inputs, which undermine farmer productivity and trust.
The President voiced his support during a meeting with a South African delegation led by Mr. Andile Ramaphosa at State Lodge, Nakasero. The delegation presented a collaborative framework involving Uganda’s Namunkekera Farm Service Centre, the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB), and Mr. Ramaphosa himself.
This tripartite partnership aims to develop robust infrastructure for meticulously profiling, managing controlled breeding, harvesting, and ultimately exporting the prized genetics of Ankole cattle. The scope extends to the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and potentially other international markets.
Mr. Ramaphosa highlighted the ambition to elevate the quality of Ugandan cattle, drawing parallels with the successful livestock standards in South Africa. President Museveni commended the initiative, viewing it as a vital catalyst for the advancement of Uganda’s livestock sector.
“I wish to express my gratitude to these people for awakening from slumber and coming up with ideas that can contribute to the transformation of our agricultural sector,” the President remarked, emphasizing the proactive nature of the proposal.
Furthermore, the plan includes the establishment of a Build, Operate, and Transfer (B.O.T) laboratory. This facility is intended to bolster quality assurance, regulatory oversight, and verification processes for agricultural inputs, directly combating the pervasive issue of fake agro-chemicals and seeds.
President Museveni also offered strategic advice, urging the partners to focus on genetic selection based on specific, desirable characteristics such as high milk production or superior breeding potential to maximize the value of livestock.
The collaboration is anticipated to significantly boost the Ugandan livestock industry’s growth and foster stronger regional trade, particularly in the specialized Ankole cattle genetics market.
Source: State House (Uganda)