High ram prices overshadow Eid celebrations in Ghana
Traders and consumers blame soaring transport and import costs, urging government intervention as financial struggles cloud Eid preparations
ACCRA, Ghana (MNTV) — As Muslims in Ghana gear up for Eid al-Adha, surging livestock prices are forcing many to forgo traditional sacrifices.
Despite recent gains in the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar, the cost of rams and cattle remains prohibitively high, leaving families frustrated and traders struggling.
A survey at the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange by The Ghanaian Times revealed that mid-sized rams are priced between GH¢2,000 (about $195) and GH¢2,500 (about $244), while larger breeds cost GH¢5,000 (about $489) to GH¢8,000 (about $782), depending on factors like size, health, and color.
Traders attribute the steep prices to rising transport expenses, veterinary fees, and the cedi’s weakening against the CFA franc, the currency of nearby livestock-exporting nations such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
“The market is slow this year. People inquire about prices but don’t buy,” said Alhassan Fuseini, a livestock trader. “There’s no money in circulation.”
Faced with these challenges, many potential buyers are opting out.
“I can’t afford a sacrificial animal this year. My family understands we’ll have to manage,” shared Adam Salifu, a trotro (minibus) driver.
Livestock sellers are calling for government action, including waiving or subsidizing cross-border transit fees, to reduce costs for traders and make prices more accessible to consumers.
Eid al-Adha, one of Islam’s holiest festivals, is traditionally celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, and the ritual slaughter of animals, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God.
However, for many Ghanaian Muslims, this year’s economic challenges are set to overshadow the spiritual significance of the occasion.
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