Karamoja: NARO recommends cross-breeding to boost meat and milk production
According to experts, cross-breeding local zebu cattle with the Sahiwal breed can significantly enhance both productivity and adaptability
MOROTO, July August 1, 2025 — The National Agricultural Research Organisation [NARO] has urged livestock farmers in the Karamoja Sub-region to adopt cross-breeding as a strategy to improve meat and milk production.
According to experts, cross-breeding local zebu cattle with the Sahiwal breed can significantly enhance both productivity and adaptability. The Sahiwal, originally from South Asia, is renowned for its tolerance to heat and resilience in harsh climates, traits that make it especially suitable for Karamoja.
“When crossed with the local zebu, the Sahiwal breed develops quickly, reaching up to 700 kilogrammes within just two years,” experts noted. The cross-breed is also known for its resistance to disease and ability to thrive on a variety of pastures, reducing the overall burden on farmers.
George Egayu, an animal health technician and artificial insemination specialist at NARO’s Nabuin Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute [Nabuin ZARDI], described the Sahiwal breed as “a game-changer for farmers in Karamoja.”
“It’s heat tolerance and adaptability make it ideal for our region’s unique climate,” Egayu said.
He added that, if properly fed, the Sahiwal cross-breed can yield up to 20 litres of milk per day, offering a reliable income stream for farmers.
Egayu also highlighted the breed’s commercial advantages:
“Sahiwal crossbreeds can reach weights of up to 700 kilogrammes in two years, making them a viable choice for improving meat production,” he said.
Furthermore, their large size acts as a deterrent during cattle raids, a recurring problem in Karamoja.
“Their size and weight make them harder to drive away, reducing the risk of theft and losses for farmers,” Egayu explained.
The cost of artificial insemination is relatively affordable at Shs 200,000, and importantly, the sex of the calf can be pre-selected.
“This enables farmers to plan and manage their herds more effectively,” Egayu said. “By adopting the Sahiwal breed and cross-breeding techniques, livestock keepers in Karamoja can increase productivity, boost incomes, and improve their overall well-being.”
Dr Odongo Mathew, Director of Nabuin ZARDI, emphasised the importance of embracing improved farming methods:
“Cross-breeding with the Sahiwal is just one of many innovations that can benefit farmers in Karamoja,” he said. “Such approaches can enhance productivity and increase household incomes.”
Officials at Nabuin ZARDI, believe cross-breeding offers a practical and sustainable path to improved livelihoods in the region. With its rapid growth rate, disease resistance, and high milk yield, the Sahiwal cross-breed is viewed as an ideal solution for semi-arid areas like Karamoja and Teso.
“This approach is particularly suitable for areas with unpredictable and harsh climates,” Egayu said.
By adopting cross-breeding and other modern livestock practices, farmers in Karamoja stand to not only improve their economic prospects but also contribute to the broader development of the region.
https://thecooperator.news/naro-partners-with-koica-to-boost-fruit-and-vegetable-production/
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