Ibrahim Wahab Tikuma, the Ashanti Regional Chief Butcher, is calling on the Mahama- led government to significantly expand and modernize the Kumasi Abattoir to enhance Ghana’s economy, generate employment, and align with the government’s 24-hour economy initiative.
Established in 1957 by Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the Kumasi Abattoir holds historical importance.
Over the years, it has undergone various improvements, including initiatives from former President Jerry John Rawlings. However, Tikuma argues that a comprehensive upgrade is now critical to fully realize its economic benefits.
Speaking to Orange Business News, he pointed out that the meat industry is a vital income source for economic growth, and with the NDC’s recent electoral victory, he is optimistic about the prospects for the abattoir’s development.
Tikuma also addressed the challenges faced by butchers in Ghana, particularly the fluctuating value of the Ghanaian cedi against foreign currencies, which makes importing cattle from neighboring countries like Mali and Burkina Faso increasingly expensive.
He expressed concern over the financial strain this places on butchers, who must convert large amounts of cedis into foreign currency for cattle imports.
To alleviate these challenges, Tikuma proposed that the Ghanaian government engage with Burkina Faso and Mali to negotiate lower cattle prices and subsidies for imports.
He believes such measures would not only ease the financial burden on butchers but also strengthen diplomatic ties and bolster Ghana’s economy.
Tikuma is convinced that a revamped Kumasi Abattoir is vital for the success of the government’s 24-hour economy initiative.
He envisions that an upgraded facility could transform the meat industry into a key player in a continuous economic cycle, creating jobs and generating significant revenue.
The usual flurry of animals at the Kumasi Abattoir has dramatically dwindled.
One is traditionally greeted with large numbers of cattle and other animals including sheep and goats.
However, the most popular Abattoir in Kumasi is currently struggling with low numbers.
Cattle owners blamed the situation on the depreciation of the country’s currency.
Creating thousands of jobs both directly and indirectly, the company is one of the largest in West Africa.
