Kumasi Abattoir needs GH¢700,000.00 to operate optimally

The Kumasi Abattoir would need about GH¢700,000.00 to augment its equipment for optimal operation, Mr Joseph Owusu-Boadi, the Managing Director of the company, said on Monday.

He said it had become necessary to improve and modernize the facility as patronage soars.

Speaking to Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Kumasi, he said, the Abattoir's safe and hygienic handling of meat was receiving growing acceptance by meat consumers and this ought to be sustained.

During the yuletide for example they slaughtered on the average about 300 animals a day compared with the 2011’s average of 100.

These animals mostly were brought in by individuals, underlining the public confidence in the manner things are done there.

Goats and sheep led the pack, he added.

Mr Owusu-Boadi expressed their determination to maintain high standards of meat safety to protect public health.

He spoke of plans to wall the company’s vast land to flush out squatters, some of whom have been using disused vehicle tyres to singe the carcass.

Meanwhile, there continue to be public concern over the poor and unsafe handling of meat by butchers, something Mr Mohammed Atigpaga, Chairman of the Kumasi Central Market Disciplinary Committee of the Butchers Association admitted was a real challenge.

It is a common sight to see meat transported uncovered in taxis and tricycles to the sale points by butchers after being slaughtered at the abattoir.