Ex-NAGRC bosses deny causing govt sh1.3b loss in semen contract

KAMPALA - The former National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC & DB) bosses have denied fraudulently procuring animal semen worth sh1.3b.

The accused, Tuesday (September 23, 2025) appeared before Justice Michael Elubu of the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court in Kampala, and denied charges of abuse of office, corruption, and causing financial loss.

The offence of causing financial loss attracts a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison upon conviction, while corruption elicits a 10-year jail term. Abuse of office attracts- seven-year jail term.

The accused include Dr Charles Lagu, (former NAGRC executive director), procurement officer Eziekel Phillip Mukani, farm manager Clement Nuwamanya, veterinary officer Dr Patrick Mawadri, deputy technical manager production Dr Wilfred Anthony Ntaate, Tadeo Mbazira, Charles Ezati, and Benda Katali.

Also charged are Mathias Wakulira and Yasinta Nabukenya, all directors of Kibbubu Agro Suppliers Ltd.

Allegations

Prosecution alleges that Lagu and Mukani, on September 3, 2019, at NAGRC, Entebbe municipality in Wakiso district, in abuse of their offices, signed and witnessed a shillings 1.3 billion contract between NAGRC and Kibbubu, for the supply and delivery of animal semen without clearance from the Solicitor General as required by law.

It is purported that Lagu approved a request for procurement for the supply and delivery of semen when he was not from the breeding department, and without conducting a market survey, contrary to the procurement laws and regulations.

Prosecution further states that Lagu and Mbazira, in November 2019, approved and effected payment of shillings 244 million to Kibbubu for breeds that were delivered in excess of what was requested in the contract for animal semen.

The duo also allegedly approved and effected shillings 482 million to Kibbubu for breeds that were not requested for in the contractor supply and delivery of animal semen.

Meanwhile, Kibbubu directors are accused of receiving money from NAGRC for the supply and delivery of breeds that were delivered in excess of what was requested in the contract, knowing it would cause financial loss to the Government.