Uganda is set to export 2,000 one-year-old female Ankole cows to Nigeria under a new trade arrangement worth approximately Shs7 billion, marking a significant boost for the countryโs livestock export sector.
The deal, involving 23 Nigerian companies, will focus on the production of veal from the Ankole breed, which has attracted interest for its lean meat and relatively low cholesterol levels. Ugandan diplomats in Nigeria promoted these health benefits as a major selling point to consumers seeking healthier protein options.
Dr. Sam Omara, Officer in Charge of Economic and Commercial Diplomacy at Ugandaโs High Commission in Abuja, said the unique nutritional qualities of Ankole beef played a key role in securing the market. The agreement is part of wider efforts to strengthen trade ties ahead of the Nigeria-Uganda Business Forum and Exhibition scheduled for September 9โ10 in Kampala.
Private Sector Foundation Uganda Chief Executive Officer Stephen Asiimwe highlighted Nigeriaโs population of more than 200 million people and the shared use of English as strategic advantages for Ugandan exporters. Ambassador Richard Kabonero, head of the Economic and Commercial Diplomacy Hub at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the initiative as an important step in expanding Ugandaโs private-sector footprint in major African markets.
Indigenous to the Great Lakes region, Ankole cattle are renowned for their resilience and distinctive long horns and hold significant cultural value among Ugandaโs pastoral communities. However, the planned export of young female animals has sparked concern among some Ugandans who fear large-scale sales could affect a breed regarded as an important cultural and genetic resource.
The livestock deal adds to an already growing trade relationship between Uganda and Nigeria, which includes exports of tobacco, coffee, hides and skins, fish, and glass products. Uganda Airlines has also been generating substantial revenue through passenger and cargo services between the two countries.
Officials believe the agreement will support Ugandaโs strategy of diversifying agricultural exports beyond traditional commodities while using diplomatic channels to unlock new markets across Africa. Discussions on delivery schedules and veterinary requirements are expected to be concluded in the coming weeks.
