Call for Urgent Action on International Certification

Ugandan meat processors are urging the government to accelerate efforts toward obtaining internationally recognized halal certification, emphasizing that the lack of such accreditation is preventing the country from tapping into premium global markets, particularly in the Middle East.

Collin Muyanja, Chief Executive Officer of Ranchers Finest, warned that Uganda risks losing billions in potential export revenue if this gap is not addressed promptly. Speaking at the launch of a new premium retail outlet in Kampala, he stressed,

“Uganda does not have an internationally recognized halal certification, which is crucial for exporting to the Middle East. We must act fast if we want to compete globally.”

Missed Opportunities in Global Markets

Muyanja revealed that countries like Egypt have shown interest in importing up to 5,000 tons of beef from Uganda each month. However, the nation is unable to meet that demand due to weaknesses in livestock production systems and certification challenges.

He further noted that many cattle farmers continue to raise livestock for traditional or sentimental reasons rather than commercial purposes, slowing down the development of an efficient and competitive meat value chain.

Uganda’s Edge in Organic Beef Production

Despite these challenges, Muyanja expressed optimism about Uganda’s potential to become a global player in organic beef exports. “Our beef is grass-fed, tender, low in cholesterol, and comparable to what you find from Brazil or Australia,” he said, highlighting the country’s natural advantage in sustainable and healthy meat production.

Innovation in the Local Meat Industry

Ranchers Finest recently launched The Meat Supermarket in Kampala—Uganda’s first retail outlet dedicated entirely to premium meat products. This facility seeks to revolutionize the local meat market through enhanced quality, modern packaging, and convenience, setting a new standard for urban meat consumption.

Experts Call for Policy and Startup Support

Industry specialists echoed similar sentiments, calling for stronger policy intervention to strengthen the sector. Hane Nawakajjo, a consultant at Ankolo Consulting, urged the government to empower startups working on innovation and value addition in meat processing.

“There’s no reason why Uganda’s meat cannot become a global brand like Argentina’s,” he stated.

Nawakajjo emphasized that while government policy on value addition already exists, more targeted support is needed for branding, diversification of meat cuts, and advanced curing techniques to enhance Uganda’s global competitiveness.

Toward an Agro-Industrial Future

The renewed push for international halal certification aligns with Uganda’s broader vision of agro-industrialization as a pillar of economic transformation. With proper certification, stronger industry support, and continued innovation, Uganda has the potential to expand its meat exports beyond Africa and position itself as a key player in the global halal market.

Original Article:

Nile Post. (2025). Meat processors call for international halal certification to access world’s lucrative export markets. Retrieved from https://nilepost.co.ug/business/257309/meat-processors-call-for-international-halal-certification-to-access-worlds-lucrative-export-markets