Ugandaโs iconic Ankole Longhorn is showing strong dairy potential at Nshaara Conservation Ranch, where NAGRC&DB is using genetic selection, pedigree tracking, performance recording and improved nutrition to develop a high-yielding pure Ankole dairy population without introducing exotic dairy genetics.
Milk production, reproduction and animal health records are systematically maintained through farm records and NAGRC&DBโs Integrated Livestock Management Information System (ILMIS), guiding the selection of superior animals and maternal lines.
Average milk productivity increased from 5.2 litres per cow per day in 2023 to 7.0 litres in 2024 and 8.6 litres in 2025, while annual recorded production rose from about 56,040 litres to 168,285 litres. The active milking herd also grew from 24 cows in 2023 to 60 by December 2025.
Selected cows now commonly produce 5โ10 litres during a single morning milking, with exceptional animals reaching up to 12 litres, demonstrating the breedโs potential when supported by improved feeding. NAGRC&DB has complemented grazing with hay and silage produced at Nshaara.
Dr. Peter Beine, Executive Director of NAGRC&DB, said the programme shows that breeding and nutrition must work together, with genetic selection identifying superior potential while proper feeding helps animals express it.
The programme is now focused on making higher milk production consistent and heritable across generations through accurate pedigree records, elite-cow selection and the use of proven maternal and sire linesโplacing Ugandaโs indigenous Ankole genetics at the centre of future livestock productivity.
