King Amoah
Kumasi, Ghana – Alhaji Musah Abubakari, Chairman of the Kumasi-based Non-Governmental Organization, the Muslim Executive Foundation (MEF), has issued a strong call to Ghanaian lawmakers to prioritize animal welfare by passing legislation that protects the safety of animals. In a recent interview, Alhaji Abubakari expressed his deep concern and condemnation of the cruel treatment often inflicted upon domestic animals in the country.
While acknowledging that animals often serve as a source of food, Alhaji Abubakari emphasized that the manner in which they are treated is often inhumane and should not be tolerated. He highlighted the common practice of heavily tying cattle, goats, sheep, and fowl, packing them into vehicles exposed to the harsh sun for transportation to markets. This, he stated, reflects a lack of regard for the well-being of these creatures.
Alhaji Abubakari also raised concerns about the mistreatment animals endure prior to slaughter. He pointed to the distressing sight of fowls and ducks, among others, trapped by threads on the streets, struggling for freedom with no one offering aid or mercy. He stressed that these animals are sentient beings that experience pain and deserve compassion, a fact he believes is often ignored because they cannot voice their suffering.
“Animals feel pain and are scorned by society, but because they hardly speak, people have taken their safety for granted,” Alhaji Abubakari stated, underscoring the vulnerability of animals in the face of human indifference.
Drawing a comparison with advanced countries, Alhaji Abubakari noted that animal welfare is taken very seriously in many parts of the world. He expressed bewilderment at what he termed the “punishment” inflicted upon animals in Ghana for no discernible reason. He even cited the example of Burkina Faso, a neighboring country where harming animals carries consequences.
Alhaji Abubakari believes that treating animals with respect and kindness is not only morally right but can also lead to greater blessings for individuals and the nation as a whole. He urged lawmakers to recognize the importance of animal welfare, stating that “if we serve the animals better, God will not only bless us alone but the entire country.”
The call from Alhaji Musah Abubakari and the MEF reflects growing concern across the country regarding the treatment of animals. It remains to be seen whether lawmakers will heed his appeal and enact legislation to better protect animal welfare, but it is clear that the issue is gaining more and more support. As Alhaji Abubakari aptly stated, the time for action is now.
