Museveni receives SADC delegation, considers proposals on cattle genetics, agro-input testing

Africa

KAMPALA, Uganda (NPA) — Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has received a delegation from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) led by South African businessman Andile Ramaphosa to discuss potential areas of cooperation in agriculture, livestock development, and trade.

Ramaphosa, the eldest son of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Managing Director of Blue Crane Capital, led the delegation on a courtesy visit to the President at the Nakasero State Lodge in Kampala.

According to a statement issued by President Museveni, the delegation presented proposals for collaboration with the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) and the Regional Service Centre Initiative at Namunkekera Farm.

The proposals are aimed at strengthening the regulated breeding, harvesting, and export of Ankole cattle genetics to countries within the SADC region and other international markets.

The delegation also proposed the establishment of a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) laboratory to help tackle the growing challenge of counterfeit agricultural inputs in Uganda.

The proposed facility is expected to enhance quality control, improve product verification, and support efforts to protect farmers from fake seeds, fertilisers, and other agricultural products.

Museveni welcomed the proposals and commended the delegation for its initiative.

“I welcome these ideas. I thank them for their initiative. The Government will study the proposals and support initiatives that advance Uganda’s socio-economic transformation,” the President said.

The meeting reflects ongoing efforts by Uganda to deepen regional cooperation, promote agricultural innovation, and attract investments capable of boosting productivity, food security, and export earnings.