Restoring Africa's

Savannahs:

The

WildeBeef

Initiative

Welcome to WildeBeef, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Uganda. Our project is at the forefront of transforming cattle farming into a powerful tool for ecological restoration and community empowerment. By implementing regenerative grazing techniques, we’re not only enhancing the fertility of the land but also reviving the vast, biodiverse savannahs of Africa. Join us on our journey to create a sustainable future where beef production supports environmental health and economic growth.

We believe in

Our Vision: create a better world!

At WildeBeef, we envision a world where agriculture coexists with nature. Our initiative aims to reverse land degradation, boost biodiversity, sequester carbon, and elevate the living standards of local communities through sustainable beef production. Here, every cow contributes to the regeneration of the land, ensuring that Africa’s savannahs thrive for generations to come.

Explore
WildeBeef

Restore your grasslands with our expert team. We’ll help you.

1.8x

better yields and eco-friendly

We are Team WildeBeef

Our ability to combine expertise and systems thinking is what fuels us as a team. 

Diederick Opperman

Team Lead

Diederick is a South African veterinarian, trained at the University of Pretoria’s faculty of Veterinary Science, who practiced in the United Kingdom for over 30 years. Diederick’s career in the UK has included running his own veterinary practice doing small animal clinical work as well as founding several other businesses in UK’s agribusiness space providing a wide range of services such as statutory carcass classification services for meat and livestock, import and export inspections services for products of animal origin moving between the UK and the EU, etc.

Diederick also comes from a cultural farming background and has a strong interest in farming, nature and, particularly, cattle. This interest, along with key insights gleaned from his professional experiences, led him to founding WildeBeef and dedicating himself to activating cattle in the service of nature.

Ernest Baingana

Technology Lead

Ernest is a Ugandan Data Scientist and Actuary. Ernest graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and from Columbia University with a Master of Science degree in Actuarial Science before going on to practice as a Data Scientist and Actuary based out of New York City. Ernest’s 10-year professional career so far has seen him work extensively at the intersection of data and computers to solve problems, primarily in the context of the business of insurance. These experiences have given Ernest a keen understanding and passion for how data-driven technology (blockchain and Artificial Intelligence) is changing the world for the better, ultimately bringing him to the WildeBeef project where he has played a key role in crystallizing the vision around technology.

Ernest also comes from a cattle-keeping cultural background in Uganda and is especially excited about the potential of the WildeBeef idea to have a strong positive impact on the socioeconomic condition of cattle-keeping communities.

Jon Davies

Ecology Lead

Jon is Director at RSK Wilding, a UK company dedicated to restoring nature. Jon set up Wilding in early 2020 with the aim of using the UK’s upcoming Biodiversity Net Gain legislation to create a network of habitat creation and restoration projects, all funded by developers through the planning system. Jon also works closely with Wilding’s colleagues in Nature Positive, who work with corporations around the world to improve their carbon and biodiversity performance and reduce their impacts.

Jon and his company RSK Wilding will play a key role as independent 3rd party assurance players helping the WildeBeef project study and evidence its environmental claims.

Gerhard Olivier

Technical Lead – Grazing & Veterinary Science

Gerhard is a South African veterinarian and farmer. He owns and runs a family farm (2,965 acres) near Swartruggens, South Africa, on which he has lived with his wife since the year 2000. He is an expert on the application of holistic grazing methods for cattle to regenerate land, having personally implemented them on his farm over a span of more than 10 years with impressively transformational results. Gerhard also operates an IVF cattle embryo laboratory.

Gerhard will be responsible for the implementation of the regenerative grazing methods, including training and building a team of local practitioners to ultimately scale the work.

Albert Swanepoel

Marketing Lead

Albert is a marketing consultant and specialist in marketing communications, strategy development and brand activation. Albert has worked with various large corporates as marketing manager, project manager and creative director. His various projects have involved television production, destination marketing (he’s launched three city brands, including Durban, South Africa), corporate communications and public relations, sports sponsorship and management, etc.

Albert will lead the WildeBeef project’s marketing and branding efforts.

Ashleigh Irvine-Smith

Journalist and Marketing Consultant

Ashleigh is a graduate of Politics, Philosophy and Economics, as well as Journalism. She has a special interest in environmental governance and justice and wants to further engage with governments and stakeholders in the realm of sustainable beef farming and the regeneration of Africa’s savannahs. Ashleigh’s experience is in sustainability policy drafting and journalism, and she is heading up our copywriting and social media campaigns.

Martha Byanyima

Food Scientist and Beef Cattle Rancher in Uganda

Martha has engaged extensively in East and Southern Africa to expand market access opportunities for food and agriculture products through; (i) supporting governments to implement sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulatory reforms and(ii) helping companies to meet SPS requirements of the importing countries. Born into a cattle ranching family, together with her siblings they run a beef cattle ranch in South Western Uganda. After many years of international development work on the African continent, she has engaged with Wildebeef, and is currently collaborating with other ranchers in her community to restore the Ankole savanna grassland and establish a high value sustainable beef brand for domestic, regional and international markets.

Blockchain: Revolutionizing Transparency in Agriculture

Trust Through Technology

In the WildeBeef project, we harness blockchain technology to revolutionize how agricultural ventures are managed. Blockchain provides an immutable ledger that ensures every transaction, from the grazing patterns to the sale of beef and carbon credits, is transparent and traceable. This technology guarantees fair play, empowering every stakeholder with real-time data and fostering trust in our sustainable practices.

Restore your grasslands with our expert team. We’ll help you.

1.8x

better yields and eco-friendly

Benefits

Transparency

Every participant in the WildeBeef project can trace the journey of their beef from pasture to plate, verifying its sustainable credentials

Fair Distribution

Blockchain ensures that economic benefits are distributed equitably among farmers, landowners, and community members, reflecting their contributions accurately.

Security

Secure, tamper-proof records mean that certifications for sustainability and fair trade practices are indisputable, enhancing market trust and value.

Efficiency

Streamlined processes reduce overhead costs, making sustainable practices economically viable at scale.

Sustainability at the Core:

More Than Just Beef

Regenerative Grazing Explained

Our adoption of mob grazing is not merely about cattle management; it’s a holistic approach to land rejuvenation. This method mimics the natural movement of wild herds, leading to:

Economic and Social Sustainability

Community Empowerment

Through better yields and quality, coupled with access to premium markets, local farmers see substantial income improvements, fostering economic growth.

Carbon and Nature Credits

We monetize ecological benefits by selling carbon and biodiversity credits, providing an additional revenue stream that rewards sustainable practices

Research and Development

Ongoing research in collaboration with environmental scientists ensures our methods evolve with the best available science, maximizing our positive impact on the environment.

WildeBeef stands as a testament to how modern agriculture can serve as a catalyst for ecological repair and social upliftment, all while providing the world with premium, ethically produced beef. Join us in this transformative journey towards a greener, more equitable future.

frequently asked questions

Most asked questions on the project’s goals, methods, benefits, and how they can engage with or support WildeBeef.

What is the WildeBeef Project?

The WildeBeef Project is an innovative initiative aimed at restoring African savannah habitats through sustainable cattle farming, utilizing regenerative grazing practices and blockchain technology.

How does regenerative grazing benefit the environment?

Regenerative grazing, specifically mob grazing, helps restore soil health, increases biodiversity, improves water retention, and significantly boosts carbon sequestration in the soil, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation.

What is mob grazing, and why is it used?

Mob grazing involves moving large herds of cattle frequently across the land to mimic the movement of wild herds. This prevents overgrazing, allows for plant recovery, and promotes a healthier ecosystem.

How does blockchain technology fit into cattle farming?

Blockchain technology in WildeBeef ensures transparency, traceability, and equitable benefit distribution. It records every transaction and movement, ensuring that all stakeholders can trust in the sustainability and fairness of our operations.

Can I buy WildeBeef products outside of Uganda?

Currently, we are focusing on building our local and regional markets, with plans to expand our export capabilities. Stay tuned for updates on international availability.

What are carbon and nature credits, and how does WildeBeef benefit from them?

Carbon credits represent the reduction of greenhouse gases, and nature credits highlight biodiversity improvements. WildeBeef sells these credits to companies looking to offset their carbon footprint or invest in biodiversity, creating additional revenue streams that support our sustainable practices.

How does WildeBeef ensure the quality of its beef?

We combine traditional cattle breeds with internationally recognized beef varieties through careful genetic selection, alongside our regenerative grazing practices, to produce high-quality, sustainable beef.

What impact does the WildeBeef Project have on local communities?

Our project increases income for local farmers through higher beef yields and quality, provides training in sustainable practices, and involves communities in the cooperative venture, fostering socio-economic development.

How can I be sure that WildeBeef is truly sustainable?

We provide full transparency through blockchain, regular environmental impact assessments, and third-party certifications that verify our sustainable and regenerative practices.

Is WildeBeef organic?

While our focus is on sustainability and regeneration, we adhere to organic principles where feasible. However, certification might vary as we prioritize ecological restoration over strict organic labeling.

How can I get involved or invest in the WildeBeef Project?

We welcome partnerships, investments, and support. Please contact us through our website for information on how to engage with or contribute to our project.

What measures are in place to reduce methane emissions from cattle?

We're researching and implementing practices that naturally reduce methane, like improving cattle diet diversity, which studies show can lower methane production in ruminants.

How does WildeBeef contribute to wildlife conservation?

By restoring savannah ecosystems, WildeBeef not only supports cattle but also enhances habitats for native wildlife, contributing to the conservation of biodiversity in the society at large.

News and Updates

Most asked questions on the project’s goals, methods, benefits, and how they can engage with or support WildeBeef.

Let’s start a conversation on WildeBeef

get in touch

The WildeBeef project is an innovative effort that leverages blockchain technology to coordinate the implementation of regenerative grazing practices among cattle-keeping communities in Africa.

Reach to us!

  • Goodridge Court, Goodridge Avenue, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, GL2 SEN
  • [email protected]
  • +44 7966491475
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