Abstract:
In Uganda, livestock production has continued to grow (at a rate of over 4% per annum) in response to
increasing demand for milk and meat in the local market. However, per capita consumption of milk and its
products is still very low. The current annual consumption is 22 liters of milk per person which is well below the FAO
recommended 200 liters annual consumption per person. Nonetheless, prospects for increased demand, hence
increased production, are good as per capita purchasing power continues to increase (Ngigi, 2005). The potential
for expansion is high given the natural resources of Uganda. Livestock production in Uganda is an integral part of
the agricultural system of many parts of the country. Mixed farming small holders and pastoralists own over 90% of
the cattle herd. Cattle are the most important of all the livestock. Milk-producing cows are perhaps the most valued
and potentially profitable assets a Ugandan farm family can own.