The Role of Livestock Keepers in Uganda’s Prosperity and the Need for Policy Advocacy
Uganda, a country rich in natural resources and agricultural diversity, boasts a vibrant livestock sector driven by the dedication and resilience of millions of pastoralists and livestock keepers scattered across its landscape. The recently conducted National Livestock Census (NLC) 2021 provides illuminating insights into the pivotal role these individuals play in ensuring food security, contributing to economic growth, and creating employment opportunities within the nation. However, to fully harness the potential of this sector and propel Uganda towards greater prosperity, it is imperative to advocate for favorable policies and secure land rights for these invaluable stakeholders.
The NLC 2021 paints a compelling picture of Uganda’s livestock sector, revealing that approximately 6.8 million households are engaged in livestock keeping, representing a substantial portion of the country’s population. This statistic underscores the widespread involvement of Ugandans in livestock-related activities and highlights the sector’s significance in rural livelihoods. Furthermore, the disaggregation of data by gender reveals that while male-headed households constitute the majority of livestock-keeping households at 65.9 percent, female-headed households also play a significant role, comprising 34.1 percent of the total. This gender diversity within the sector underscores its inclusive nature and the opportunities it offers for women’s empowerment and economic participation.
One notable aspect highlighted by the census is the significant presence of youth within the livestock-keeping community. With 1.4 million youth-headed households engaged in livestock keeping, comprising 20.1 percent of all livestock-keeping households, there exists a tremendous opportunity for youth empowerment and employment generation within the sector. Investing in programs that support young livestock keepers, such as access to training, credit facilities, and modern farming technologies, can not only secure their livelihoods but also contribute to the overall development of Uganda’s rural economy.
The cattle population, a cornerstone of Uganda’s livestock sector, stands at 14.5 million, with indigenous breeds constituting the majority. The remarkable increase in milk production, reaching a staggering 71.7 million liters per week in 2021, reflects the sector’s resilience and potential for growth. This surge in milk production not only meets the nutritional needs of Ugandans but also presents opportunities for value addition and income generation through dairy processing and marketing activities.
Similarly, the goat and sheep populations have experienced significant growth, with 17.4 million goats and 4.4 million sheep recorded in 2021. These small ruminants play a crucial role in the livelihoods of many Ugandans, particularly in marginalized regions such as Karamoja, where they serve as a vital source of food, income, and cultural significance.
The regional distribution of livestock reveals varying concentrations across different parts of the country, with the Western and Eastern regions emerging as key hubs for cattle farming. However, it is essential to recognize the diverse contributions of all regions to the livestock sector and ensure equitable access to resources and support services for livestock keepers nationwide.
Advocating for livestock keepers goes beyond recognizing their contributions; it entails advocating for policies and interventions that safeguard their interests and promote sustainable growth. Access to secure land rights, favorable market conditions, veterinary services, and extension programs are paramount to enhancing the productivity and resilience of the sector. Additionally, investing in research and innovation can unlock new opportunities for value addition, diversification, and climate resilience within the livestock value chain.
Conclusively, at Coalition of Pastoralist Civil Society Organisations (COPACSO) we know that Uganda’s livestock keepers are the backbone of the nation’s agricultural sector, playing a crucial role in ensuring food security, driving economic growth, and empowering communities. By advocating for their needs and investing in their development, Uganda can unlock the full potential of its livestock sector and pave the way for a prosperous and food-secure future.
