Business 3 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda-Nigeria Trade Deal Eyes 2,000 Ankole Cows for Export
Nigerian investors are set to finalize multibillion-shilling trade deals with Uganda, including the acquisition of 2,000 Ankole cows for their unique veal market. The deals are expected to be cemented during the upcoming Nigeria-Uganda Business Forum in Kampala. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-nigeria-trade-deal-targets-2-000-ankole-cows-for-export-5582962
Nigeria is showing significant interest in Uganda’s agricultural sector, with plans to import approximately 2,000 Ankole cows as part of substantial trade agreements. This initiative is slated for finalization at the Nigeria-Uganda Business Forum and Exhibition 2026, scheduled for September 9-10 in Kampala.
Twenty-three Nigerian companies are expected to attend, with several expressing a strong intent to purchase the Ankole cattle. The focus for these cows, which are typically around one year old, is primarily on harvesting their veal, capitalizing on the specific market demand for this type of meat. The proposed deal is estimated to be worth around Shs7 billion.
Ankole cattle are renowned for their distinctive, large horns and hold cultural importance for communities like the Banyankole and Bahima, particularly in the Mbarara and Kiruhura regions. Ugandan diplomats have successfully highlighted the breed’s health benefits, particularly its low cholesterol content, a key selling point for health-conscious international consumers.
Beyond livestock, Nigerian investors are exploring opportunities in manufacturing and infrastructure. Proposals include a $3 billion public-private partnership for a cement factory and an $800 million investment in a fertilizer production plant. Other sectors of interest include oil and gas, finance, media, real estate, pharmaceuticals, transport, and solar irrigation.
The existing air connectivity, with Uganda Airlines operating direct flights to Lagos, has facilitated trade, generating substantial revenue from cargo services. Uganda’s current top exports to Nigeria include tobacco, hides and skins, coffee, and glass products, with prospects for further growth in agro-processing and manufacturing.
“The strategic advantage of navigating the Nigerian market cannot be overstated, given the shared official language and a market of over 200 million consumers,” noted Mr Stephen Asiimwe, CEO of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda, emphasizing the vast consumer base in major cities like Lagos. This engagement is part of broader diplomatic efforts to expand Ugandan businesses into significant continental markets.