Ankole Cows: The Cattle of Kings

The Ankole is a beautiful breed of African cattle, belonging to the broad Sanga cattle grouping of African breeds. These majestic animals have been revered for centuries by the people of the region for their beauty, strength, and adaptability. The Ankole cow is also known as the “cattle of kings” due to its significance in the cultural and economic history of the region.

Ankole descended from an ancient species of cattle that lived in the Nile Valley around 4000 BC. Many centuries later, the herds migrated with their owners further south into Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi, where they gave rise to a number of African cattle breeds including the Ankole.

Ankole cattle is distributed in much of eastern and central Africa, particularly in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Burundi and parts of Tanzania. In addition to their regal appearance, Ankole cattle produce rich milk and meat high in polyunsaturated fats and omega oils. These hardy cattle can live up to 30 years, relying on limited nutrients and water.

Ankole cows are also known for their impressive size and strength. They are generally larger than other breeds of cattle, with males weighing up to 1,500 pounds and females weighing up to 1,200 pounds. This makes them ideal for plowing fields, hauling heavy loads, and providing milk and meat. They are also known for their hardiness and adaptability, making them well suited to the harsh conditions of the African savannah.

One of the most striking features of the Ankole cow is its distinctive horns, which can reach up to 2.5 meters in length. These impressive horns are not only a symbol of the animal’s strength and power but are also used for practical purposes such as foraging for food and self-defense. The horns also play a significant role in the cultural and religious practices of the people of the region.

 While they may look heavy, the horns are made of a honeycomb structure designed to let blood circulate and cool. So instead of weighing the cattle down, the horns cool them down—like their very own air conditioners!

Many people speculate about the reason that this breed of cows have such huge horns. In Mbarara, a herder told me why he believed the cows had such huge horns, discover what in the following video:

Despite their importance in the cultural and economic history of the region, Ankole cows have faced numerous challenges in recent years. The population of the breed has been in decline due to a variety of factors, including habitat loss, disease, and crossbreeding with other breeds. This has led to a decline in the number of purebred Ankole cows, and a decrease in their genetic diversity.

However, there are efforts being made to conserve and protect this unique breed. Organizations such as the Ankole Cattle Breeders Association and the Ankole Cattle Society have been working to promote the conservation and breeding of purebred Ankole cows. They also work to educate farmers and the general public about the importance of the breed and how to care for them.

In conclusion, Ankole cows are truly the cattle of kings. Their impressive horns, size, strength and adaptability make them truly unique animals. They are not only a valuable resource for the people of the region but also play an important role in the cultural and economic history of the region. With conservation efforts in place, we can ensure that future generations will continue to appreciate and benefit from this majestic breed. When you speak to their keepers, it becomes incredibly clear, that they will be cherished, respected, and loved for thousands of years to come.