The National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) unveiled a state-of-the-art animal feed processing plant and hatchery at Kasolwe Stock Farm in Kamuli District.The facilities were commissioned by then First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs Rebecca Kadaga, alongside Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze, State Minister for Animal Industry Bright Rwamirama and other officials.The new facilities were established to improve livestock production in the Busoga sub-region by providing farmers with affordable, quality animal feeds, improved breeding services and modern farming technologies.
The feed mill has the capacity to produce five tonnes of livestock feed per hour, including three tonnes of mash feed and two tonnes of pelleted feed. A fish-feed extrusion unit was also under construction.The hatchery can produce up to 60,000 day-old chicks per week, with the poultry complex housing four parent-stock units capable of holding at least 4,800 birds.
NAGRC&DB Executive Director Dr Peter Beine said the facilities would help transform farming in Busoga from subsistence production into commercial agriculture.The project had already benefited more than 800 households, which received over 70,000 Kuroiler and Rainbow Rooster day-old chicks.Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze said the feeds would be sold to farmers at subsidized prices as the government works to strengthen its regional research and breeding facilities.
