The National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) is seeking an additional Shs5Bn for the establishment of a Pig Genetic Centre in the 2024/25 national budget.
This was disclosed by Janet Okori-Moe, Chairperson of Parliament’s Agriculture Committee while presenting the sectoral report for the 2024/25 national budget after scrutiny by the Budget Committee in which she called for the need to have all the funds required availed to NAGRC in order to boost pig production in Uganda.
Okori-Moe said, “The Committee observed that Shs10Bn was budgeted for the establishment of the pig breeding centre activity in 2024/25 but only Shs5Bn was provided for yet there is need to avail improved pig genetic resources. The centre will also act as a skilling centre for pig farmers countrywide. The Committee recommends that an additional Shs5Bn be provided for establishment of a pig genetic resource centre.”
The pronouncement by Okori-Moe, who doubles as Abim Woman MP attracted cheers from some MPs and during discussions, there was no concern raised about this expenditure, hinting at the acceptance of the proposal, and if the proposal is adopted by Parliament, the Ministry of Finance will be required to avail the funds to NAGRC.
According to the Food and Agricultural Organisation 2011 report, the average per capita consumption of pork in Uganda (3.4 kg/person/year) is almost two times higher than what it is in all other East African countries and it is the highest in sub-Saharan Africa including South Africa.
