In an effort to enhance animal nutrition and quality, Mr. Bright Rwamirama, the Minister of State for Animal Industry, has urged the newly appointed members of the National Animal Genetics Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) board to make cost-effective animal feeds accessible to farmers.
During the inauguration of the NAGRC&DB board members and the distribution of 100 superior dairy breeding bulls to dairy cooperative members across the country in Entebbe on Tuesday, Mr. Rwamirama emphasized the importance of affordable animal feeds. He stated, “The feeds should be sustainably affordable for farmers. We have received funding from the government and are encouraging people to use these feeds, but the adoption rate is still slow.”
Mr. Rwamirama went on to explain that it is not necessary to generate profits immediately but rather to demonstrate the benefits of proper cow nutrition. He believes that when farmers witness positive results, they will be more inclined to purchase the feeds. He said, “Let’s make sure we provide these feeds to the farmers. Once they experience the benefits, they will be eager to acquire more.”
In addition to advocating for affordable feeds, Mr. Rwamirama urged the new board to safeguard government land from encroachment, emphasizing its importance in supporting agricultural initiatives. He mentioned the successful recovery of previously lost government-owned farms and ongoing efforts to protect these assets.
The managing director of NAGRC&DB, Mr. Peter Beine, emphasized the center’s commitment to providing essential products and services to farming communities throughout the country. These offerings include various seeds, animal feed, high-quality livestock, liquid nitrogen, and premium manure. Mr. Beine also highlighted the center’s focus on optimizing Ankole cow productivity in terms of milk yield and weight gain.
Mr. Ben Anyama, the new board chairperson, stressed the importance of punctuality, ethics, and cooperation among NAGRC&DB employees to fulfill the center’s work plans. He stated that the center’s farms should operate as businesses, free from political influence, and announced plans to restructure NAGRC&DB to accommodate its growing size and responsibilities in the coming months.
