Certification void keeps Uganda’s prized beef out of global muslim markets

KAMPALA — Uganda’s sought-after beef, lauded for its distinctive yellow fat, lean quality, and rich flavor, is being significantly hampered in its bid to penetrate lucrative Muslim markets by the absence of internationally recognized Halal certification, exporters say.

Dealers in meat and related products are urgently calling on the government and other stakeholders to expedite the establishment of a credible Halal certification system, arguing it is crucial to unlocking the country’s beef export potential.

While Uganda’s organically raised beef is reportedly in high demand globally, particularly for its unique characteristics, exporters say they frequently encounter trust issues when engaging with Muslim-majority countries due to the lack of a universally accepted Halal stamp of approval.

“We urge key stakeholders, including the Government, to play their role so that we can have an internationally recognised Halaal certification, which is important when you are exporting to the Middle East,” said Collins Muyanja, a member of the Uganda Beef Producers Association (UBPA), during a recent industry event in Kampala.

Halal certification confirms that a product intended for export has been produced and packaged in accordance with Islamic Law, as outlined by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

“Right now, we can’t export halal products because we don’t have an international certificate,” Muyanja stated, noting that existing local certifications lack the necessary global recognition. “That is why we need to be accredited internationally.”

Muyanja, who also heads a local meat retailer, emphasized that internationally recognized certification would enable Ugandan exporters to effectively compete in the Middle East, a market currently dominated by Brazil and Australia despite the perceived superior quality of Uganda’s organically fed beef.

He pointed out the significant market opportunity presented by the Middle East, a region that imports approximately 85% of its meat requirements. “This presents an opportunity for Uganda, where the livestock sector accounts for 4.3% of the gross national product (GDP),” Muyanja said.

Exporters are also urging the government to bolster the entire beef supply chain, from animal husbandry practices and pasture management to overall quality control, to enhance the competitiveness of Ugandan beef on the global stage. Muyanja noted that the prevalence of cattle rearing for non-commercial reasons hinders consistent quality production for export.

“If we are to compete on the global stage, it is prudent that there is a deliberate effort to commercialise our animal husbandry to produce for the export market,” he said.

The lack of internationally recognized Halal certification is seen as a critical barrier preventing Uganda’s beef sector from realizing its full export potential, particularly in high-value Muslim markets. While the country boasts a substantial cattle population, the absence of this crucial certification leaves exporters at a significant disadvantage.