Uganda unveils goat breed set to transform dairy sector

UGANDA – The National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) has unveiled a new goat breed, the Kasolwe Brown Goat, which experts say could position Uganda as a major exporter of goat genetics and dairy in sub-Saharan Africa.

Developed through years of selective breeding at the Kasolwe Stock Farm in Kamuli District, the Kasolwe Brown was created entirely from indigenous genetics. A foundation herd of more than 500 goats now breeds true to type, consistently passing on superior traits.

According to Dr. Katali Benda, who leads the goat breeding programme, the breed is a game-changer because of its ability to thrive in diverse agro-ecological zones, reproduce prolifically, and empower farmers through improved incomes.

The Kasolwe Brown grows quickly, with weight gains of up to 127 grams per day. Mature females weigh up to 65 kilograms and males up to 75 kilograms—well above most indigenous breeds.

They resist common diseases such as Haemonchosis and Heart Water, while their shiny brown coat and black mane help ward off parasites.

With large udders, females can nurse twins and even triplets without supplementary feeding. This boosts weaning rates and herd sizes in a short period.

Dr. Ssengoye Gordon, NAGRC’s Technical Manager of Production, noted that the Kasolwe Brown provides a homegrown alternative to crossbreeding with exotic goats, which often required costly feed and intensive care beyond the reach of smallholders.

“This breed eliminates the need for imports while delivering superior productivity,” he said.

Comparative studies by NAGRC&DB against the Boer, Savannah, Kigezi, Mubende, and Kalahari breeds confirmed the superiority of Kasolwe Brown in twinning, growth rate, adaptability, and disease resistance. Farmers in pilot areas say these advantages are evident, with faster-growing kids, larger herds, and fewer disease losses.

The Kasolwe Brown has already attracted international interest. Researchers from Makerere University and the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute are studying its genetic adaptations and disease resistance, with plans to conserve these traits in gene banks for future generations.

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