The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) has launched a major livestock production revival programme aimed at restoring Teso sub-region’s once-thriving cattle industry, decades after raids and insurgency devastated herds and livelihoods.
The initiative, being implemented at NARO’s National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI) in Serere District, marks the return of large-scale animal production research to a region where cattle once defined economic power, social status and cultural identity.
For generations, Teso was a livestock stronghold, supporting vibrant value chains and infrastructure, including the now-defunct Soroti Meat Packers factory. However, years of insecurity led to massive cattle losses, collapsing production systems and undermining household incomes across the sub-region.
NARO’s intervention, under the Uganda Climate-Smart Agricultural Transformation Project (UCSATP) led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), seeks to reverse that decline by restocking cattle, rebuilding infrastructure and promoting climate-resilient livestock systems.
According to Dr Brian Babigumira, a Senior Research Scientist and Animal Breeder at NaSARRI, the programme is aligned with government efforts to restock Teso and restore cattle production as a key economic activity.
“Serere was historically a centre for animal genetics and production and played a critical role in supporting the beef industry in eastern Uganda,” Dr Babigumira said. “The revamp is intended to reintroduce animals under the restocking programme and provide quality breeding stock for farmers across the sub-region” .
Under the first phase of implementation, NaSARRI will receive 230 head of cattle, including Indigenous Zebu, Boran and Sahiwal breeds chosen for their adaptability to semi-arid conditions. Additional breeds such as Jersey and Brahman are expected in later phases, bringing the total breeding herd to about 330 animals.
The programme also involves extensive investment in land development and livestock infrastructure. MAAIF, through its mechanisation centre, has deployed heavy machinery to open land for pasture establishment, while construction of livestock facilities is ongoing at the institute.
A rotational grazing system is being introduced to improve pasture utilisation and enhance land productivity. The system involves confining animals to paddocks for short periods to allow grazed areas adequate time to regenerate, a key feature of climate-smart livestock management.
Pasture development forms a core pillar of the project. NaSARRI is establishing mixed grass-legume pastures to improve feed quality and soil fertility, with species such as Brachiaria and Desmodium being introduced. Water reticulation systems, fencing, firebreaks and watering troughs are also being installed to support sustainable grazing.
In addition, NARO is rehabilitating long-neglected facilities that previously supported beef production in Teso. A dilapidated pasture-based feedlot will be restored to accommodate about 100 animals, while the meat evaluation unit—critical for assessing carcass quality and supporting the beef value chain—is also set for rehabilitation.
Livestock health infrastructure is another priority. The institute plans to restore the sprayrace and dip tank, facilities essential for controlling ticks and livestock diseases, particularly among calves and pregnant animals. A new dairy unit, cattle shed, hay barn and silo bunker are also planned, drawing on benchmarks from NARO’s Nakyesasa livestock institute in Wakiso District.
To address chronic feed shortages, especially during dry seasons, the project has invested heavily in pasture seed production. NaSARRI has established more than 100 acres of pasture fields, including Chloris, Pakchong napier, Lablab and Mucuna. Some pasture seed has already been harvested and stored for distribution and future use.
“These conserved pasture fields are part of our strategy to build farmers’ resilience and ensure access to quality feed during dry periods,” Dr Babigumira noted.
Dr Kalule Okello David, the Director of Research at NaSARRI, said the revamp also includes plans to rehabilitate staff housing to improve working conditions and sustain quality research and extension services. He commended the collaboration between NARO, Serere District Local Government and MAAIF in restoring livestock research at the institute.
As NaSARRI reclaims its role as a centre of excellence in livestock research, officials say the broader goal is to revive cattle-based livelihoods, rebuild broken value chains and return livestock to the heart of Teso’s economy and culture.
