Free Access | 2024-04-12

Why have milk yields in Uganda stagnated? An investigation into livestock production practices and milk productivity in Uganda

Authors/Editors: Brian Sserunjogi (PhD) ,  Madina M. Guloba (PhD) ,  Francis Mwesigye (PhD)

Abstract:

This policy note investigates milk-yield performance and the factors constraining milk productivity in Uganda. Based on the household survey panel data, the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) statistics and qualitative data from field visits to dairy-producing districts in Uganda, the findings reveal that milk yield per cow has declined over time. The results show that milk productivity has been severely constrained by increased multi-acaricide tick resistance, low uptake of high-grade improved exotic cattle, inadequate dairy extension services, and limited investment in feed resources to supplement natural pastures. It is therefore important that the government improve enforcement of acaricide quality by increasing the staffing levels and the facilitation budget for both the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) and the production departments in districts. The government also needs to boost extension service provisions at the district level to train farmers in better livestock practices.