The National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC & DB), established under the Animal Breeding Act of 2001, is a semi-autonomous agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries. Its core mission is to lead the commercialisation of animal breeding activities and enhance genetic improvement across Uganda’s livestock sector. NAGRC & DB’s mandate encompasses both commercial and development functions, allowing it to contribute significantly to agricultural growth and economic development through its activities.
On the commercial side, NAGRC & DB provides genetic materials such as semen, eggs, ova, embryos, and the equipment necessary for artificial breeding. The agency also manages farms dedicated to producing, selecting, and selling superior breeding stock. It facilitates the production and distribution of liquid nitrogen used in the preservation of genetic material and plays a vital role in procuring and selling breeding and reproduction equipment, which supports both commercial farmers and national research efforts.
From a development perspective, NAGRC & DB serves as the National Animal Genetic Data Bank and the Central Livestock Registry. Through the National Animal Genetic Resources Evaluation Centre and Laboratory, the agency acts as a gene depository and a hub for examining and evaluating genetic material. It is also tasked with quarantining and assessing imported genetic resources to ensure they meet national standards. At the same time, NAGRC & DB trains technicians and farmers in breeding techniques, promotes the creation of breeder associations and breed societies, and champions herd-recording and performance testing at the farm level.
One of the agency’s most critical roles lies in the management of government ranches and farms across Uganda. These include prominent facilities such as Nshaara, Ruhengyere, Sanga, Aswa, Maruzi, Rubona, Bulago, Lusenke, and Lira stock farms. Each of these institutions is mandated to preserve indigenous animal breeds, multiply improved livestock for distribution to farmers, support research and training in animal genetics, and serve as regional livestock development hubs. These ranches form the backbone of Uganda’s livestock improvement strategy, serving as centers of excellence and key sources of high-quality breeding stock for both smallholder and commercial farmers.
NAGRC & DB also oversees a number of specialised units, each with targeted programs tailored to strengthen different areas of the livestock value chain. Among them is the Apiculture Unit, which advances beekeeping practices and works to conserve honeybee genetic resources. The Piggery Development Unit focuses on upgrading local pig breeds and improving productivity through better genetics and management. Similarly, the Poultry Unit promotes the multiplication and nationwide distribution of improved chicken breeds such as Kuroiler and Rainbow Roosters. In addition, the Small Ruminants Unit supports the enhancement of goat and sheep production using advanced breeding technologies, while the Animal Feed and Nutrition Unit is dedicated to improving livestock health and performance through efficient, locally adapted feeding systems.
To support these breeding efforts, the agency operates a Liquid Nitrogen Production Unit that guarantees a steady supply of this critical component for preserving semen and embryos. It also houses a state-of-the-art Genomic and Biotechnology Laboratory, which conducts DNA-level analyses and genetic mapping. This facility enhances breeding precision and plays a key role in genetic conservation and the development of high-performance livestock breeds.
NAGRC & DB is also heavily involved in disease surveillance and livestock traceability, particularly for threats such as foot-and-mouth disease. Through its research and monitoring programs, the agency helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases and supports the development of effective vaccines, all while reinforcing national biosecurity systems.
Through its diverse programmes and innovative initiatives, NAGRC & DB continues to shape the future of livestock farming in Uganda. By focusing on genetic improvement, sustainable breeding practices, and the health of national herds, the agency plays a pivotal role in transforming Uganda’s agricultural landscape. Its impact extends beyond productivity gains—NAGRC & DB is central to the resilience, sustainability, and economic vitality of Uganda’s livestock sector.
