Uganda introduces Jianzhou Big Ear goats from China to boost livestock productivity

UGANDA –  Uganda’s livestock sector is set for a major leap forward following the official handover of Jianzhou Big Ear goats from China to the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) for research and breeding. 

The consignment, imported in July under the FAO-China-Uganda South-South Cooperation Project, was released after successfully completing the mandatory 21-day quarantine.

The handover ceremony, held in late September at the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Databank (NAGRC&DB) in Entebbe, was presided over by Hon. Bright Rwamirama, Minister of State for Animal Industry. 

He said the new goats would be used to improve local breeds through targeted crossbreeding programs aimed at boosting productivity.

“We already have some competitive breeds, such as the Boer from South Africa. However, certain indigenous breeds like the Kigezi and Bitanga do not gain sufficient weight. With this new breed from China, we will conduct research to establish whether they are indeed ‘wonder goats.’ If proven, we shall import more and make them available to farmers,” Hon. Rwamirama said.

He emphasized the need for high-performing breeds to meet the growing demand for meat and milk while supporting Uganda’s agro-industrialization drive. 

“We are no longer talking about just production but productivity, because our population is growing while land remains static,” he added.

Superior genetics for local impact

Dr. Swidiq Mugerwa, NARO’s Deputy Director General in charge of Research, said the Jianzhou Big Ear goat is a fast-growing meat breed capable of reaching 45 kilograms in just 18 months, outperforming indigenous breeds such as the Mubende and Small East African goats, which average 25–35 kilograms in two years.

“The purpose of introducing this breed is to enable Ugandan farmers to boost both milk and meat production, thereby increasing household incomes and improving livelihoods,” Dr. Mugerwa explained.

Rose Ademun, Uganda’s Commissioner for Animal Health, described the breed as “a superior meat breed known for its rapid growth, high carcass yield and adaptability to various agro-climatic conditions.” 

She noted that crossbreeding with local goats would help produce offspring that are resilient, productive, and drought-tolerant, an important advantage for arid and semi-arid regions.

Strengthening ties through South-South Cooperation

According to Mr. Julius Twinamasiko, National Coordinator of the South-South Cooperation Project, NARO will oversee research and breeding while NAGRC&DB leads multiplication efforts. He praised the partnership’s dual benefits. 

“We want to add superior livestock breeds that will help farmers earn more through meat, milk and trade. China gains investment and market ties, while Uganda gains technology, genetics and capacity building,” he said.

He added that Chinese experts have provided technical guidance on breeding, disease control, and pasture management. 

“This is more than just a livestock project, it’s a knowledge exchange,” Twinamasiko noted.

FAO’s program associate and project coordinator, Mr. Martin Ameu, said the collaboration reflects Uganda’s broader efforts to modernize its livestock industry. 

“This cooperation goes beyond livestock. It’s about building lasting capacity, fostering innovation, and creating income opportunities in rural areas,” he said.

With breeding trials set to begin, officials say the Jianzhou Big Ear goats could soon transform Uganda’s smallholder farming systems, laying the groundwork for improved meat production, stronger rural livelihoods, and a more resilient livestock sector.

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