Burkina Faso border closure triggers cow meat shortage in Ghana – Kumasi Abattoir Chief

The continued closure of the Burkina Faso border has triggered a serious shortage of cattle and cow meat in Ghana, with butchers warning of a possible sharp increase in meat prices ahead of the Christmas festivities.

The National Vice Chief and Ashanti Regional Chief Butcher at the Kumasi Abattoir, Alhaji Ibrahim Wahab Tikumah, says the situation has significantly disrupted the supply of cattle to the country, leaving butchers struggling to meet growing consumer demand.

Speaking in  interview with OTEC News’ on Thursday, at the Kumasi Abattoir, Alhaji Tikumah disclosed that butchers have not received cattle from Burkina Faso for several months following the closure of the border by the country’s president.

Burkina Faso Supply Disruption Affects Meat Production

He explained that Burkina Faso remains Ghana’s major source of cattle, warning that the interruption in the supply chain is affecting meat production and distribution in Kumasi and other parts of the country.

“aApproximately 70 per cent of the cow meat consumed in Ghana comes from neighbouring countries, with Burkina Faso playing a major role in meeting the country’s demand”. He said.

” Kumasi Abattoir,  serves as a major meat processing and distribution centre for the Ashanti Region and beyond, is currently operating below its normal capacity due to the shortage particularly from Burkina Faso”

Butchers Fear Possible Price Hike At Christmas

Alhaji Tikumah warned that failure to resolve the situation before the Christmas festivities could result in a significant increase in meat prices, potentially putting the commodity beyond the reach of many households.

He noted that the festive season traditionally comes with increased demand for meat, making the current shortage a major concern for both consumers and traders.

He further revealed that several butchers are already struggling to sustain their businesses, warning that some could be forced to shut down if the situation persists.

Government Urged To Intervene

The Ashanti Regional Chief Butcher has consequently appealed to the Government of Ghana to urgently engage the President of Burkina Faso through diplomatic channels to address the situation.

“We believe government’s intervention can facilitate the reopening of the border for the movement of cattle into Ghana” .

He stressed that immediate diplomatic intervention is necessary to restore the supply chain, protect the livelihoods of butchers and prevent consumers from bearing the burden of possible price increases.

Alhaji Tikumah warned that without urgent action, the country could face a more severe meat supply crisis during the Christmas season.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Jacob Agyenim Boateng