Kumasi: Prices of livestock have dropped significantly ahead of the 2025 Eid ul-Adha celebrations, largely due to the strengthening of the Ghanaian cedi against major international currencies. Eid ul-Adha, one of Islam’s most important religious holidays observed worldwide, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to God’s command. The occasion is traditionally marked by the symbolic sacrifice of animals, especially cattle and rams.

According to Ghana News Agency, the cedi has shown a marked appreciation against major trading currencies such as the US Dollar, British Pound, Euro, and the CFA Franc in recent months. This currency strength has contributed to a noticeable shift in market dynamics, resulting in reduced prices for livestock. A visit by the Ghana News Agency to the Kumasi Abattoir revealed a significant increase in the number of livestock available. As of June 2, 2025, over 4,000 animals had arrived, a sharp rise from just 1,000 during the same period in 2024. This influx is attributed to the upcoming Eid celebrations, which traditionally drive high demand for sacrificial animals.

Alhaji Baba Berre, Chairman of the Livestock and Cattle Dealers Association at the Kumasi Abattoir, explained that the strong cedi had made livestock imports more affordable, allowing for price reductions across the board. ‘For instance, a cow that sold for GHS 20,000 last year now sells for GHS 15,000. Similarly, cows that were GHS 15,000 are now going for GHS 10,000,’ he revealed. He added that the abattoir was expected to receive over 6,000 cattle before Friday, June 6, 2025, in preparation for the festival. Alhaji Berre expressed optimism that the price cuts would make it possible for more families to participate in the tradition this year. Additionally, ram prices now start at GHS 2,000, compared to the previous year’s starting price of GHS 3,500, making them more accessible to consumers.

Mr. Michael Tonghani, Production Manager at the Kumasi Abattoir, welcomed the development, noting that the improved supply of livestock would help the facility meet growing consumer demand during the festive period. He assured the public of the abattoir’s commitment to providing safe, hygienic, and efficient meat processing services, ensuring that all meat products were suitable for human consumption. Mr. Tonghani also dismissed rumours that the abattoir had increased its service charges in anticipation of Eid ul-Adha, stating categorically that there were no plans to raise fees. He encouraged the public to patronize the abattoir’s certified services to guarantee the quality and safety of meat consumed during the festivities.