The Co-operative Butchers Association in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis has made an earnest appeal to the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) for the refurbishment of the Sekondi Slaughterhouse. The Association believes this will encourage butchers across the Metropolis to conduct their operations in compliance with the Assembly’s bye-laws governing the slaughter of animals.

During a courtesy call by the Executives of the Association, the Chief Butcher for Sekondi, Alhahi Mohammed Osuman, outlined their key concerns. He noted that since the Efia-Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly (EKMA) assumed control of the Whindo Abattoir, butchers in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis have struggled to access a standard facility for their activities. He, therefore, urged the Assembly to expedite efforts to rehabilitate the Sekondi slaughterhouse to ensure the provision of safe and wholesome meat for the public.

Alhaji Osuman further highlighted that the slow pace of work for the redevelopment of the Takoradi Market has adversely affected their trade. He appealed to the Assembly to accelerate the completion of the market to enable them to conduct their business without disruption. He also requested the Assembly’s intervention to secure land for a kraal outside the city centre for their cattle. According to him, this would help keep livestock off the streets and prevent disturbances to vehicular and pedestrian movement.

The Chairman stressed the critical role of veterinary and environmental health officers in ensuring that proper protocols are followed by butchers to slaughter their animals and store meats. He appealed to the Environmental Health Unit to assign a dedicated officer to oversee operations at the slaughterhouse. He also called for the provision of a meat van to maintain hygienic standards during the transportation of meat.

In response, the MCE, Hon. Fredrick Faustinus Faidoo, acknowledged the vital role butchers play in ensuring food security and reiterated the Assembly's commitment to supporting their activities. He emphasized, however, that the butchers must also uphold proper hygienic practices at their places of operation.

"The handling of meat must be done with the utmost hygiene while ensuring that the environment is kept clean," the MCE stated.

He further advised the executives of the Association to encourage their members to registered with the Assembly, adding that the revenue they pay would cushion the Assembly to also provide certain amenities to make their work easier.

Hon. Faidoo assured them that all concerns raised would be considered by the Assembly’s management with the goal of creating a conducive environment for the butchers to operate effectively.