Some residents of the Bantama Constituency in the Ashanti Region have rejected calls by the Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) for a nationwide ban on the consumption of dog and cat meat.
They described these calls as “unfair treatment and human rights infringement” against persons who consume the meats in question.
The Institute, led by its Executive Director, Eric Jerry Aidoo, has urged the government to immediately prohibit the slaughter and consumption of dogs and cats in Ghana, citing serious public health and ethical concerns.
According to ICS, dogs and cats should be recognised as companion animals rather than livestock, and therefore must not be subjected to slaughter for human consumption.
The organisation further warned that the unregulated handling and slaughter of these animals could expose the public to dangerous diseases, including rabies, trichinellosis, and cholera.
It stressed that such practices pose a significant threat to public health and could endanger entire communities if left unchecked.
However, in a vox pop conducted by Bismark Mensah of Kumasi-based Angel FM, some residents of Bantama expressed contrary views.
They maintained that with proper regulation, inspection, and awareness creation, potential health risks could be minimised, insisting that cultural practices and personal dietary choices should also be respected.
“I think that the decision to ban consumption of these meats is somehow an infringement on some people’s rights. It’s not only dogs and cats that are associated with health implications; there are a lot of other animals doctors have warned about, yet we defy their orders and warnings and consume them.
“So, if we are overlooking those meats at the expense of only dogs and cats, which some people’s cultures and traditions have permitted them to consume since childhood, then we are not being fair in that case,” a male resident told the journalist.
He argued that instead of an outright ban, there should be intensified public education on safe and hygienic preparation methods.
“We have to reconsider the decision and think of offering some technical advice on the preparation of the meat before consumption, among other important measures that will help their health after consumption. That is what they are supposed to do.”
Another male resident stated, “Consumption of these animal meats started long ago, so I don’t think an attempt to ban it will be possible.”
Adding their voices, some female residents of the area shared the view that people should not be prevented from enjoying their preferred meat.
“I suggest dog and cat meat should be allowed for those who prefer to consume them, as it is their wish. Will they offer or suggest alternative meats for dog and cat meat consumers? If they do, then people may equally heed the calls and stop its consumption,” they added.
Source: Bismark Mensah
