The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) has called for an immediate ban on the consumption of cats and dogs in Ghana, citing serious public health risks and ethical concerns.
The appeal was made by the organisation’s Executive Director, Eric Jerry Aidoo, who urged government, the media, and the general public to recognise cats and dogs as companions rather than livestock.
According to Mr. Aidoo, cats and dogs play vital roles in Ghanaian households, offering emotional support to children and the elderly while also serving as security guides that protect homes and businesses.
He argued that reducing them to sources of meat diminishes their value and weakens community bonds.
ICS further warned that the consumption of cat and dog meat poses significant health risks.
The group noted that unregulated slaughtering and handling of such animals could facilitate the transmission of dangerous diseases, including rabies, trichinellosis, and cholera, thereby endangering individuals and communities.
The organisation has called on the Ministry of Health to introduce strict measures, including a total ban on the slaughter of cats and dogs for human consumption, the criminalisation of their trade and sale as meat, and the rollout of a nationwide public education campaign to raise awareness about the associated health dangers.
Mr. Aidoo stressed that Ghana must align with global health standards and ethical practices, insisting that cats and dogs deserve protection rather than slaughter.
ICS emphasized its commitment to promoting a sustainable, healthy, and compassionate society and urged the media to amplify its campaign while encouraging citizens to support efforts aimed at safeguarding public health and animal welfare.
